Pork belly strips are a delicious treat that can be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside when cooked just right. Whether you want to grill, roast, or pan-fry them, this guide will walk you through simple steps to make perfect belly pork strips every time. Let’s dive into the magic of cooking pork belly and learn how to get that irresistible crackling and juicy meat.
What Makes Pork Belly Special?
Pork belly comes from the underside of the pig and is known for its layers of fat and lean meat. This combination gives pork belly its rich flavor and tender texture. When cooked properly, the fat renders down, keeping the meat moist, while the skin or fat layer crisps up beautifully.
Choosing the Right Pork Belly Strips
Look for pork belly strips with a good balance of fat and meat. The fat should be firm and white, not yellow or soft. If you buy pre-sliced pork belly, aim for slices about ¼ to ½ inch thick for even cooking and easy crisping.
Preparing Pork Belly Strips for Cooking
Score and Salt the Skin
If your pork belly strips have skin, start by scoring it in a crisscross pattern. Be careful to cut only through the skin and fat, not into the meat. This helps the fat render evenly and creates crispy crackling.
Rub salt generously into the scored skin. Salt draws out moisture, which is key for crispiness. For best results, leave the salted pork belly uncovered in the fridge for at least 24 hours to dry out the skin.
Season the Meat Side
While the skin is drying, season the meat side with your favorite dry rub or marinade. Popular spices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let the flavors soak in for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 12 hours in the fridge.
Cooking Methods for Belly Pork Strips
Oven-Roasting for Crispy Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the pork belly strips skin-side up on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This allows air circulation for even cooking.
- Roast for about 45 minutes to an hour until the skin is golden and crispy.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting for another 30 minutes to an hour until the pork is tender and cooked through (internal temperature 145°F/63°C).
- Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
This slow and steady roasting method yields tender, juicy pork belly with a perfectly crisp top.
Pan-Frying for Quick and Flavorful Results
- Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat.
- Place the pork belly strips skin-side down and sear for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Flip the strips, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Remove the lid, increase heat to medium, and cook a few more minutes to crisp up the skin again.
Pan-frying is a great option when you want delicious pork belly strips fast.
Grilling for Smoky Char
If you prefer grilling, use pre-sliced pork belly strips about ¼ inch thick. Rub with your favorite dry rub or marinade and let rest for 30 minutes at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
Grill the strips for about 2 minutes per side over medium-high heat until slightly charred but not burnt. Slather with BBQ sauce and grill for another minute or two for extra flavor.
Tips for Perfect Pork Belly Strips
– Dry the skin well: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, so drying the skin in the fridge uncovered is crucial.
– Score the skin carefully: Only cut through the skin and fat, not into the meat.
– Use a wire rack: This helps fat drip away and air circulate for even cooking.
– Don’t rush the cooking: Low and slow roasting or simmering helps render fat and tenderize the meat.
– Rest before slicing: Letting the pork rest keeps juices locked in.
Serving Suggestions
Pork belly strips are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a main dish with sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. They also make fantastic additions to sandwiches, tacos, or salads. For dipping, try a zesty mustard sauce or your favorite BBQ sauce to complement the rich flavors.
With these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to cook belly pork strips that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you roast, pan-fry, or grill, the secret lies in proper preparation and cooking patience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this mouthwatering pork belly delight!