Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances richness and zest: Crispy Pork Belly and Kimchi! This Asian-inspired recipe transforms succulent pork belly into a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth delight, paired with the bold flavors of kimchi that will have you coming back for more. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a gourmet meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Dive into the savory world of culinary bliss and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece that will leave your guests raving!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 cup kimchi
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will help render the fat and make the pork belly tender.
- Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a crispy skin later.
- Season the pork belly evenly with salt and black pepper on both sides. Make sure to rub the seasoning into the meat and skin for maximum flavor.
- Place the seasoned pork belly on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air circulation around the meat while it cooks.
- Transfer the pork belly to the preheated oven and roast for about 2 hours. This slow cooking process will help render the fat and tenderize the meat.
- After 2 hours, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) to crisp up the skin. Roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. The skin should be golden brown and crispy.
- Once the pork belly is crispy and cooked through, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute.
- While the pork belly is resting, prepare the kimchi. If using store-bought kimchi, simply place it in a serving bowl. If you prefer homemade kimchi, ensure it is well-fermented and seasoned to taste.
- After resting, slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces. Aim for even thickness to ensure consistent texture and flavor in each bite.
- To serve, arrange the crispy pork belly slices on a platter alongside the kimchi. Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness and color.
- Enjoy your crispy pork belly with kimchi as a main dish, or serve it with steamed rice for a complete meal.
Tips
- Patience is Key: The secret to achieving that perfect crispy skin lies in the low and slow cooking method. Resist the urge to rush; allowing the pork belly to roast at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours will render the fat beautifully.
- Dry It Out: Make sure to thoroughly pat the pork belly dry with paper towels before seasoning. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy texture on the skin.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and black pepper! Rub the seasoning into both the meat and the skin to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
- Air Circulation: Using a wire rack over a baking sheet is essential. It allows hot air to circulate around the pork belly, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Keep an Eye on It: When you increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C), stay vigilant! The skin can go from crispy to burnt quickly, so check every few minutes.
- Let It Rest: After roasting, let the pork belly rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period is vital for juicy, flavorful slices, as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Serve with Style: When serving, slice the pork belly into even pieces for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and freshness.
- Pair Perfectly: Enjoy your crispy pork belly with kimchi as a main dish, or elevate your meal by serving it alongside steamed rice for a satisfying and complete experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 110mg
