- 500g pork belly, skin on
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
- 50ml water
Preparation
- Cut the pork belly into bite-sized cubes.
- Score the skin lightly to help render the fat.
- Marinate pork belly with soy sauce, fish sauce, black pepper, garlic, and sesame oil for 30–60 minutes.
Method
- Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
- Arrange pork belly cubes skin-side up in a baking tray.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes until the skin starts to crisp.
- Reduce oven to 180°C (355°F), brush with honey or sugar, and roast another 10–15 minutes.
- Optional: broil for 2–3 minutes to get extra crispiness.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
History
Crispy pork belly is a traditional favorite in many cuisines—especially in Chinese, Filipino, and Thai cooking. Its appeal lies in the combination of tender meat and crunchy skin. Variations exist across regions with different marinades and cooking techniques.
Tips
- Pat the skin dry before roasting to maximize crispiness.
- Use a wire rack over a tray to allow fat to drain for even cooking.
- Marinating overnight intensifies flavor.
Benefits
- High in protein
- Rich in flavor, satisfying taste cravings
- Good source of essential minerals like iron and zinc
Nutrition (per 100g approx.)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 40 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
Conclusion
Crispy pork belly cubes are a perfect balance of crunchy, savory, and slightly sweet. They’re ideal for serving as a main dish with rice or as a flavorful appetizer.