Name: Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider for Ultimate Flavor Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 300 min
Ingredients: 1 kg Pork Belly (Rich and fatty cut); 250 ml Dry Cider (Or apple juice as a substitute); 3 tbsp Honey (Maple syrup can be used instead); 2 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce (Regular soy sauce is an alternative); 1 tbsp Oyster Sauce (Hoisin sauce may be used as a substitute); 1 pcs Red Chilli (Omit for milder flavor); 2 tbsp Demerara Sugar (Brown sugar is a good substitute); 2 tbsp Plain Flour (Cornstarch for gluten-free option); 1 tbsp Salt; 1 tbsp Pepper

The aroma of sizzling pork belly fills the kitchen, instantly whisking me away to countless family gatherings where laughter and delicious food abound. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider—a dish that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. Not only does this method allow for tantalizingly crispy skin, but it also ensures the meat remains incredibly tender and juicy. With a straightforward preparation process, you can harmonize your cravings for rich comfort food with a delightful twist that will impress your family and friends at any gathering. So, are you ready to make a meal that will captivate your taste buds and elevate your dinner table?

Why Is This Crispy Pork Belly Unique?

Decadent Texture: The slow cooking process ensures a tender interior, while the scoring technique creates a perfect crunchy skin that crackles with every bite.
Flavor Fusion: This recipe’s combination of dry cider, honey, and soy sauce delivers a mouth-watering blend of sweet and salty that enhances the pork belly’s richness.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress your family and friends with a dish that’s not only stunning to look at but also bursting with flavors they’ll love. Pair it with garlic-herb roasted potatoes or sautéed greens for a complete meal!
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe and create an unforgettable dining experience.
Versatile Serving: Serve it as a main course or use it in sandwiches for a fabulous twist on lunch—who wouldn’t want crispy pork belly between their bread?

Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider Ingredients

For the Pork:
• Pork Belly – Rich and fatty, this cut becomes beautifully tender when slow-cooked, and its skin crisps perfectly.

For the Sauce:
• Dry Cider – Adds a delightful acidity and sweetness; apple juice can be a great non-alcoholic substitute if needed.
• Honey – Infuses sweetness and promotes caramelization for that irresistible glaze; try maple syrup for a different twist.
• Dark Soy Sauce – Deepens the flavor and gives a gorgeous color; regular soy sauce is fine for a lighter taste.
• Oyster Sauce – Enhances the umami profile; hoisin sauce can be used if you prefer a seafood-free option.
• Red Chilli – Adds a zesty kick; omit for a milder dish or swap with bell peppers for added sweetness.
• Demerara Sugar – Provides rich sweetness for the glaze; brown sugar will work well as a substitute.
• Plain Flour – Essential for thickening the sauce; replace with cornstarch for a gluten-free option.

For Seasoning:
• Salt and Pepper – Crucial for enhancing overall flavor; adjust to suit your personal taste.

Ready to whip up some Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider and enjoy a delightful experience? Let’s dive into those cooking instructions next!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider

Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Begin by scoring the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern, ensuring not to cut into the flesh. Pour boiling water over the skin to open the layers, then rub salt and pepper generously all over. Place the pork belly in a lightly oiled roasting pan and roast at 160°C (320°F) for 2 hours, until the meat is tender and the skin starts to bubble.

Step 2: Chill and Weigh
After roasting, remove the pork belly from the oven and let it cool slightly. To ensure a crispy texture, place a smaller tray on top of the pork belly and add weight, such as canned goods. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours; this step helps compress the meat and enhances juiciness, preparing it for slicing.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
While the pork chills, prepare the sweet and salty sauce. In a bowl, combine dry cider, honey, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, chopped red chili, demerara sugar, and plain flour. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth glaze, which will bring a delightful balance of flavors to the crispy pork belly slices when we apply it later.

Step 4: Glaze and Bake
Once the pork belly has chilled, remove it from the fridge and slice it into even pieces. Coat each slice generously with the cider glaze, ensuring every bit is covered. Return the slices to the baking tray and bake for an additional 30 minutes at the same temperature. This will allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully, adding depth to the dish.

Step 5: Finish with Frying
For an extra layer of crispiness, heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the glazed pork belly slices, skin-side down, and fry for about 5-7 minutes or until the skin is golden and crunchy. You’ll hear that satisfying crackle as they cook, making every bite irresistible.

Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once fried to perfection, remove the crispy pork belly slices from the skillet and let them rest on a plate for at least 15 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains tender. Serve them warm and enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy skin and juicy meat with your favorite sides!

Expert Tips for Crispy Pork Belly

Score Properly: Ensure that you score the skin deeply without cutting into the flesh. This allows the fat to render effectively, resulting in crispy pork belly slices.
Use Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water over the scored skin opens the layers and prepares the surface for crisping, enhancing the final texture significantly.
Chill for Crispiness: Weighing down the pork belly while it cools in the refrigerator helps compress the meat, ensuring it stays juicy while achieving that coveted crispiness.
Don’t Skip the Glaze: Applying the cider glaze thoroughly ensures that every bite is coated in the delicious sweet and salty flavors that pair beautifully with the pork.
Fry for Extra Crunch: Frying the glazed pork slices skin-side down after baking gives an unparalleled crunch. Monitor closely to not burn the delicate skin.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the pork belly to rest for at least 15 minutes after frying. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful when you slice into it.

What to Serve with Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these indulgent slices with sides that complement their rich flavors and textures.

Garlic-Herb Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy inside, these potatoes balance the richness of the pork belly beautifully.
Sautéed Brussels Sprouts: These greens add a touch of bitterness, which contrasts nicely with the sweet and salty glaze, brightening your plate.
Spicy Asian Slaw: A refreshing crunch that brings a zesty kick, this slaw adds a vibrant color and a delightful crunch to every bite.
Savory Fried Rice: With aromatic veggies and a hint of soy sauce, this dish harmonizes with the pork’s flavors, turning your meal into a comforting feast.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, creamy texture of coleslaw pairs well with the crispy pork, cleansing the palate and adding a delightful crunch.
Cold Beer or Cider: Refreshing drinks that enhance the dish’s wonderful taste, offering a perfect match to the savory sweet profile of the pork.

Storage Tips for Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider

Room Temperature: Enjoy your crispy pork belly slices fresh for optimal taste; however, if left out, consume them within 2 hours to ensure safety.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the delicious flavors of your crispy pork belly slices.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sliced pork belly in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months, though some crispiness may be lost upon reheating.

Reheating: Reheat slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness and warmth, making them just as delectable as when they were freshly made.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pork belly up to 24 hours in advance, following the first two steps of roasting and chilling, to keep it fresh and maintain quality. After the chilling period, wrap the pork tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps preserve its crispy skin and tender meat. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the final steps: slice the pork belly, glaze it, and bake for 30 minutes before finishing with frying. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort, making it a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights!

Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider Variations

Feel free to put your own twist on these crispy pork belly slices and discover exciting new flavor profiles!

Spicy Kick: Add chopped sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the glaze for an irresistible heat that complements the sweet and salty flavors perfectly. Embrace the spiciness by adjusting the amount based on your preference!
Fruity Flavor: Incorporate diced apples or pears into your glaze for a fresh burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pork. This delightful addition not only enhances flavor but also brings a lovely texture contrast.
Herbaceous Bliss: Infuse the sauce with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. This aromatic touch offers a fragrant and earthy dimension, elevating your dish and captivating the senses.
Asian Flair: Swap in some hoisin or teriyaki sauce for a fusion twist; their unique flavors create a new rich profile that expands upon the original concept. Serve with jasmine rice to complement the changing flavors!
Tangy Twist: Mix in a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice to the sauce, adding a delightful acidity that balances the richness of the pork belly slices perfectly.
Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of maple syrup into the glaze for an even sweeter glaze that creates a heavenly contrast with the savory pork. The natural sweetness of maple syrup will surely melt hearts!
Nutty Crunch: Top your finished slices with finely chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for a delightful textural contrast and added nutty flavor. This can be a game changer at your family gatherings!

Don’t forget to serve your crispy pork belly slices with delicious sides like garlic-herb roasted potatoes or sautéed greens for the ultimate dining experience!

Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider Recipe FAQs

What kind of pork should I use for crispy pork belly?
Absolutely! Pork belly is the best choice for this dish due to its rich, fatty content, which turns tender during slow cooking while allowing for perfect crispiness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use pork shoulder, but keep in mind it won’t have the same texture and flavor profile.

How do I store leftovers from crispy pork belly slices?
Very important! Store any leftover crispy pork belly slices in an airtight container placed in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain their delicious flavors. For longer storage, consider freezing them—place the sliced pork belly in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze crispy pork belly slices with cider?
Of course! To freeze, let the cooked pork belly slices cool completely before placing them into a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. This prevents freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to help regain their crispy texture.

Why is my pork belly not crispy?
Ah, the common conundrum! If your pork belly isn’t crispy, it may be due to insufficient scoring of the skin or not pouring boiling water over it before roasting. Scoring deeply allows fat to escape, while boiling water prepares the skin for crisping. Additionally, ensure it is well-dried before applying the glaze, as moisture can prevent that wonderful crunch.

Is there a dietary concern with crispy pork belly for pets?
Great question! While some pets might be tempted by crispy pork belly, it’s best to avoid giving them rich, fatty foods. The high-fat content can cause digestive issues or pancreatitis in pets. If you’d like to share a taste, offering a small piece of plain, cooked pork without skin or sauce is a safer option for your furry friends.

What can I serve with crispy pork belly slices?
Very good! Pair your crispy pork belly slices with garlic-herb roasted potatoes or sautéed greens like Brussels sprouts for a delightful meal. You can also serve it in sandwiches with fresh greens or on a bed of rice to balance the rich flavors beautifully. Let the creativity flow!