Indulge in the irresistible crunch and savory depth of perfectly cooked crispy pork belly! This classic dish, beloved for its rich flavor and satisfying texture, is easier to make than you might think. Forget tough, chewy results; our recipe unlocks the secret to achieving that coveted shatteringly crisp skin and melt-in-your-mouth tender meat. We'll guide you through a foolproof process that yields a pork belly so delicious, it's guaranteed to become a family favorite.
From selecting the perfect cut to mastering the crucial seasoning and cooking techniques, we'll cover every step in detail. We’ll explore the importance of proper scoring and rendering the fat for ultimate crispiness. Ready to experience the unparalleled satisfaction of homemade crispy pork belly? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and transform a humble cut of pork into a culinary masterpiece.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Bowl
- Basket
- Knife
- Frying pan
Ingredients
- Pork belly
- Shallots
- Garlic
- MSG
- Salt
- Sugar
- Soy sauce
- Cooking oil
- Five-spice powder
- Fish sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork Belly
- Wash and blanch the pork belly in boiling water. Then immediately transfer it to a bowl of cold water.
- Boil the pork belly for about 3 minutes with a little MSG and salt. Remove from the heat and put it in a bowl of cold water.
- Place the pork belly in a basket to drain.
Step 2. Marinate and Season
- Mince shallots and garlic. Prepare the marinade by combining minced shallots, garlic, sugar, soy sauce, cooking oil, five-spice powder, and fish sauce. Stir well.
- Marinate the pork belly in the prepared sauce for about 1 hour in the refrigerator.
Step 3. Fry the Pork Belly
- Wet the pork belly and fry it in hot oil over low heat for about 10 minutes, flipping frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent stickiness.
Step 4. Simmer and Finish
- Remove the pork belly from the pan. Add seasoning sauce to the pan and remove excess oil.
- Return the pork belly to the pan and pour the seasoning sauce over it. Simmer over low heat for about 3 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
Read more: Quick & Easy Dry Chicken Noodle Pho Recipe
Tips
- Keep the heat very low while frying to prevent the meat from becoming sticky.
- The finished product is a delicious piece of meat that can be enjoyed with rice and steamed or boiled vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in a plastic bag in the freezer and reheated in the microwave.
Nutrition
- Protein: high, primarily from the pork bellyg
FAQs
1. How do I achieve extra crispy skin on my pork belly?
Ensure your pork belly is completely dry before cooking. Pat it thoroughly with paper towels, and score the skin deeply but carefully. A low and slow initial roasting helps render the fat, followed by a higher temperature to crisp the skin.
2. Can I use a different cut of pork instead of belly?
While pork belly is ideal for its high fat content, you can try a shoulder or butt roast, but expect a less crispy result. Adjust cooking time accordingly as these cuts have less fat.
3. How do I know when my pork belly is cooked through?
The internal temperature should reach 190-200°F (88-93°C). The skin should be golden brown and crackling, and the meat should be tender and easily pulled apart with a fork.
This crispy salty pork belly recipe delivers incredible flavor and texture, exceeding expectations with minimal effort. From appetizer to main course, this dish is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this culinary adventure – your taste buds will thank you!