slow cooked pork belly recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best slow cooked pork belly recipe

I have been making this slow cooked pork belly recipe for years and it is hands down one of the most requested dishes in my house. The meat comes out incredibly tender and juicy every single time with that perfect melt in your mouth texture that everyone loves. My kids get so excited when they smell it cooking in the morning because they know dinner is going to be something special.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it really is. You just season the pork belly let it cook low and slow for hours and then finish it off for that crispy crackling on top. It is perfect for Sunday dinners or holiday gatherings when you want something impressive without spending all day in the kitchen. And honestly the health benefits are great too because pork belly has plenty of protein and healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied.

Slow Cooked Pork Belly with Crispy Crackling

4.7 from 840 votes

This slow cooked pork belly recipe delivers tender juicy meat with a perfectly crispy top. Let it cook low and slow for hours to get that melt in your mouth texture that makes this dish a family favorite.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 15 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork Belly

2 pounds pork belly skin on
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Braising Liquid

1 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary

👨‍🍳Directions

1Score the pork belly skin in a crosshatch pattern with a sharp knife making sure not to cut into the meat.
2Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels then rub olive oil all over the skin side.
3Mix salt pepper garlic powder and smoked paprika in a small bowl and season the meat side generously.
4Place the pork belly skin side up in a Dutch oven and pour in chicken broth soy sauce and honey around it. Add garlic and rosemary.
5Cover with lid and cook in a 300°F oven for 3 hours until the meat is very tender.
6Remove lid and increase oven temperature to 450°F. Cook for another 30 to 45 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
7Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with the braising liquid as a sauce.

🔧Equipment

Dutch oven or heavy pot with lid
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Small bowl
Meat thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 35g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 8g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For extra crispy skin pat the pork belly dry with paper towels before the final high heat step. You can also use apple cider instead of chicken broth for a sweeter flavor.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooked Pork Belly with Crispy Crackling Works

This slow cooked pork belly recipe is always a good idea for any occasion whether it is a casual weeknight dinner or a holiday feast. It works so well for family gatherings because everyone loves the tender meat and crispy skin. I hope you give it a try and your family enjoys it just as much as mine does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooked Pork Belly with Crispy Crackling

1. Can I make this slow cooked pork belly in a slow cooker?

Yes you can. Just sear the pork belly first then place it in the slow cooker with the braising liquid and cook on low for 8 hours. Finish under the broiler for crispy skin.

2. How do I get the skin really crispy?

The key is to dry the skin thoroughly before cooking and then use high heat at the end. Scoring the skin also helps the fat render and creates those crispy cracks.

3. Can I use boneless pork belly?

Yes boneless pork belly works great for this recipe. Just adjust cooking time slightly since it may cook a bit faster without the bone.

4. How should I store leftovers?

Store leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to keep the skin crispy.

5. What sides go well with slow cooked pork belly?

Mashed potatoes roasted vegetables or a simple green salad all pair nicely. The rich meat balances well with lighter sides.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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