When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the tender, fall-apart texture and rich flavors of braised pork belly. This beloved dish has gained popularity worldwide, with various cultures putting their own twists on the classic recipe. From spicy Korean-inspired variations to sweet and sour Chinese-style red braises, there’s a braised pork belly recipe out there for every palate.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering braised pork belly recipes that are perfect for any occasion – whether you’re serving up a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests. From classic combinations to adventurous twists, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of braised pork belly. So grab your apron, get ready to slow cook, and let’s dive into the world of savory, sweet, and umami flavors that await.
Classic Chinese Red-Braised Pork Belly
This iconic Chinese dish is a rich and comforting slow-cooked pork belly braised in a flavorful mixture of soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and spices. The result is tender, caramelized meat with a deep red color and a depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Chinese rice wine (Shaoxing wine)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high.
3. Add pork belly and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick to pot and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add soy sauce, sugar, and Shaoxing wine to pot, stirring to combine.
6. Return pork belly to pot and cover with a lid.
7. Transfer pot to oven and braise for 2-3 hours, or until meat is tender and caramelized.
8. Remove from oven and let cool before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Korean-Style Soy Braised Pork Belly
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and sugar to create a tender and caramelized pork belly. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and authentic Korean-style dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup Korean chili flakes (optional)
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the pork belly pieces to the pot, making sure they are covered with the soy mixture.
4. If using Korean chili flakes, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the pork.
5. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Vietnamese Caramelized Braised Pork Belly
This rich and flavorful dish is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, with tender pork belly slow-cooked in a sweet and savory caramel sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork belly, brown sugar, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
3. Add the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Japanese Kakuni Braised Pork Belly
Kakuni is a beloved Japanese dish that slow-cooks pork belly to tender, melt-in-your-mouth perfection. This recipe yields a rich and savory braise that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 cup mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise pod
– 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon.
3. Add the pork belly pieces, making sure they’re covered with the braising liquid.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Filipino Adobo Braised Pork Belly
This recipe takes the classic Filipino dish of adobo to new heights by slow-cooking pork belly in a rich mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. The result is a tender and flavorful meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork belly, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaf, and water.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Thai Basil Braised Pork Belly
This recipe transforms pork belly into a tender and flavorful dish infused with the aromas of Thai basil, garlic, and chilies. The slow-cooking process breaks down the fatty meat, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup Thai basil leaves
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork belly, lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and Thai basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Pour the mixture over the pork belly.
4. Add sliced chilies on top.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Serve: Slice the pork belly against the grain and serve with steamed jasmine rice or noodles. Garnish with additional Thai basil leaves and chili slices, if desired.
Taiwanese Braised Pork Belly Rice Bowl
This hearty dish is a staple of Taiwanese cuisine, with tender pork belly slow-cooked in a rich and savory sauce, served over fluffy rice. It’s a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into large chunks
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch. Add pork belly chunks and let marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove pork from marinade and place in a Dutch oven or heavy pot with garlic, ginger, chicken broth, and water. Cover and braise for 2-3 hours, or until pork is tender.
3. Serve braised pork belly over cooked white rice. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spicy Szechuan Braised Pork Belly
A classic Chinese dish with a bold and spicy twist, this braised pork belly is slow-cooked to tender perfection in a flavorful Szechuan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork belly, then remove from pot.
2. Add garlic, ginger, peppercorns, and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant.
3. Add soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, cornstarch mixture, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Return pork belly to pot and braise for an additional 30 minutes, or until tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Coconut Milk Braised Pork Belly Curry
Coconut Milk Braised Pork Belly Curry: A Rich and Flavorful Dish
This recipe combines tender pork belly with the creamy richness of coconut milk, a blend of warm spices, and the deep flavors of onions and garlic. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add pork belly and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in coconut milk, cover the pot, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until pork is tender.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice or naan bread.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Maple-Glazed Braised Pork Belly
Maple-Glazed Braised Pork Belly Recipe
Transform pork belly into a tender, sweet, and savory masterpiece with this simple recipe. The combination of slow-cooked pork, maple syrup, and spices will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
• 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Heat the chicken broth in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Sear the pork belly until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Beer-Braised Pork Belly with Herbs
This recipe yields a tender and flavorful pork belly that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. By slow-cooking the pork in beer, stock, and aromatics, you’ll create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly
– 1 cup dark beer (such as stout or porter)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken stock
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pork belly with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
3. In a large Dutch oven, sear the pork belly until browned on all sides.
4. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, beer, chicken stock, thyme, and rosemary. Cover the pot.
5. Transfer to the preheated oven and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Five-Spice Braised Pork Belly
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the rich flavor of pork belly with the warmth of five-spice powder, this braised pork belly is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high. Brown pork belly cubes in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add five-spice powder, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return pork belly to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Garlic and Ginger Braised Pork Belly
This rich and aromatic dish is a perfect representation of East meets West fusion. The slow-cooked pork belly, infused with the warmth of ginger and pungency of garlic, will surely satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high. Sear the pork belly until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sliced ginger; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pork belly to the pot and cover with a lid.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or overnight (8-10 hours).
Braised Pork Belly with Apples and Cider
This hearty dish combines tender pork belly with sweet apples and a hint of cider, perfect for a cozy fall evening. The slow-cooked pork is infused with the rich flavors of the apple and cider mixture, creating a truly comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or similar)
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, cook the chopped onion over medium heat until softened.
3. Add the garlic, pork belly, apples, apple cider, brown sugar, and honey. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoky Paprika Braised Pork Belly
Pork belly, slow-cooked in a rich smoky paprika braising liquid, results in tender, juicy meat that falls-apart-easy. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a centerpiece for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoky paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season pork belly with salt, pepper, and smoky paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear pork belly until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove pork from pot and set aside. Add diced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.
5. Add garlic, chicken broth, and red wine (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine, then return pork belly to the pot.
6. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or overnight until tender and easily shredded.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours or overnight
Braised Pork Belly with Star Anise and Cinnamon
Rich and aromatic, this braise combines the unctuous flavor of pork belly with the warm, spicy sweetness of star anise and cinnamon. Perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 whole star anise pods
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– Salt and black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork belly, onion, garlic, star anise, and cinnamon.
3. Pour in chicken broth, then add brown sugar and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Braised Pork Belly with Mushrooms and Shallots
This rich and comforting dish is a perfect representation of the marriage between tender pork belly and the earthy flavors of mushrooms and shallots. With just a few simple steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Sear pork belly until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, mushrooms, and shallots; cook until mushrooms release their liquid, about 5 minutes.
4. Return pork belly to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and honey. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Braised Pork Belly Tacos with Pickled Onions
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork belly wrapped in a warm tortilla, topped with tangy pickled onions and a sprinkle of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled onions (see below)
– Cilantro leaves
Pickled Onions:
– 1 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork belly, brown sugar, soy sauce, orange juice, garlic, and cumin.
3. Cover the pot and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating them in the oven for 10 minutes.
5. Assemble tacos with braised pork belly, pickled onions, and cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 hours (including browning time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of braised pork belly! This article presents 18 savory recipes perfect for any occasion. From classic Chinese red-braised pork belly to Korean-style soy braised, and even Filipino adobo braised, each recipe offers a unique twist on this beloved dish. With ingredients ranging from coconut milk to maple syrup, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re looking for a hearty main course or a flavorful appetizer, these 18 savory braised pork belly recipes have got you covered.
