Introduction
Transform humble pork belly into a show-stopping centerpiece with this unbelievably easy honey glazed recipe! We’re talking crispy, crackling skin, tender, juicy meat, and a sticky-sweet glaze that’ll have everyone begging for seconds. This isn’t your grandma’s pork belly (though she’d probably love it too!). Get ready for comfort food perfection!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it balances sweet and savory perfectly. The honey glaze adds a delicious sweetness that cuts through the richness of the pork belly, while the crispy skin provides a satisfying textural contrast. It’s also incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love crispy pork belly?
Key Ingredients
- 🐷 2 lbs pork belly, skin scored
- 🍯 ½ cup honey
- 🧂 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌶️ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 🍊1 tbsp orange juice
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Pork Belly: Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Score the skin in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. This helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
2️⃣ Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and orange juice.
3️⃣ Glaze and Roast: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork belly in a roasting pan, skin-side up. Pour half of the glaze over the pork belly.
4️⃣ First Roast: Roast for 1 hour. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
5️⃣ Second Roast & Glaze: Brush the remaining glaze over the pork belly. Continue roasting for another 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C) and the skin is golden brown and incredibly crispy.
6️⃣ Rest and Serve: Remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. The resting time allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender meat.
Handy Tips
- For extra crispy skin, pat the pork belly dry VERY well before scoring and roasting.
- Don’t overcrowd the roasting pan. This allows for even cooking and crispy skin.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork belly is cooked through to the safe internal temperature of 195°F (90°C).
Heat Control
The two-stage roasting process is key. The higher initial temperature helps render the fat and crisp the skin, while the lower temperature ensures the meat cooks through evenly without drying out. Adjust roasting times based on the thickness of your pork belly.
Crunch Factor
The crunch factor comes from the perfectly rendered skin! Scoring the skin deeply enough, ensuring it’s completely dry before roasting, and using the two-stage roasting method are crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a tablespoon of your favorite spice blend (e.g., Chinese five spice) to the glaze.
- A little bit of apple cider vinegar in the glaze adds a delightful tanginess.
- To help the glaze caramelize beautifully, broil the pork belly for the last few minutes of cooking (keep a close eye on it to prevent burning).
Storage Tips
Store leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
Slice the pork belly and arrange it beautifully on a platter. You can add some fresh greens like parsley or cilantro. This makes a stunning and delicious gift!
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Honey Glaze: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or gochujang paste to the glaze for a fiery kick.
🌟 Maple-Glazed Pork Belly: Substitute maple syrup for half of the honey for a richer, more complex flavor.
🌟 Ginger-Garlic Glaze: Add a tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the glaze along with the garlic.
🌟 Five-Spice Pork Belly: Add 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder to the glaze for a warm, aromatic twist.
Troubleshooting
- Skin not crispy: Make sure the pork belly is completely dry before roasting. You may need to increase the roasting time or broil it for a few minutes at the end.
- Meat too dry: Reduce the oven temperature or shorten the roasting time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the correct internal temperature.
FAQ
- Can I use a different cut of pork? While pork belly is ideal for its fat content, you could try a boneless pork shoulder, but the results might be slightly different.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the glaze ahead of time, but it’s best to roast the pork belly just before serving for the optimal crispy skin.
- What sides go well with this? Roasted vegetables, steamed rice, mashed potatoes, and a simple green salad are all excellent side dishes.
Conclusion
This Honey Glazed Pork Belly is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! We hope you enjoyed this recipe and that you’ll share your culinary creations with us on social media! Happy cooking, everyone!