The aroma of crispy pork belly slices with cider wafts through the kitchen, making taste buds tingle with anticipation. Picture this: golden, crackling skin giving way to tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth, all while a hint of sweet cider dances around each bite. colorful stuffed peppers.
I remember the first time I made these crispy delights; my friends were practically drooling before they even hit the table. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, these pork belly slices will elevate any occasion and leave everyone begging for more. perfect party snack.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Crispy pork belly slices with cider offer an irresistible combination of crunch and flavor that’s hard to resist
- The preparation is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks
- With their golden-brown appearance, they become an instant showstopper on any plate
- These slices are versatile enough to serve as an appetizer, main dish, or even in sandwiches!
I still chuckle when I think about how my mom reacted after trying them; her eyes widened in disbelief as she declared them “life-changing.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious beverage pairing.
- Pork Belly: Choose a good cut with a balanced ratio of fat and meat for the best results.
- Apple Cider: Opt for fresh-pressed cider to enhance the sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Salt: Use coarse sea salt to create that perfect crunchy topping.
- Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a lovely spice that complements the rich pork.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch brings out savory notes that harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of cider.
- Thyme or Rosemary: Fresh herbs elevate the dish’s aroma and add a touch of elegance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness.
Prepare the Pork Belly: Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. A dry surface guarantees crispy skin; nobody likes soggy pork!
Season Generously: Rub salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your choice of herbs all over the pork belly. Feel free to be generous; flavor is key here!
Add Cider Magic: Pour apple cider into a roasting pan until it just covers the bottom. This will help keep your pork moist while infusing it with flavor.
Roast Away!: Place the prepared pork belly on top of the cider in the roasting pan. quick dessert option Roast it in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes until it’s gloriously golden brown.
Sizzle and Serve!: Once done roasting, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing into those beautiful crispy layers. Serve warm and relish every bite!
This recipe will surely become a staple at your table. Your family and friends might just start expecting these crispy pork belly slices at every gathering! For more inspiration, check out this Bangers and Mash recipe recipe.
You Must Know
- Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures
- The rich, savory pork contrasts beautifully with the sweet tang of cider, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion
- Perfectly crispy skin adds that satisfying crunch that makes every bite memorable
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by scoring the pork belly skin to help it crisp up beautifully. Next, season generously with salt and let it rest before cooking. Finally, roast in the oven for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with spices! Try adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or fresh herbs for an aromatic boost. You can substitute apple cider with pear cider for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crispy pork belly slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to restore their crispiness, avoiding soggy results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy skin, ensure your pork belly is dry before seasoning
- A good sear on high heat locks in flavors beautifully
- Don’t rush the resting time after cooking; it makes slicing easier and juicier!
The first time I made Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider, my friends declared me a culinary genius, even though I mostly just followed my instincts and hoped for the best! For more inspiration, check out this Irish Colcannon recipe.
FAQ
How do I achieve extra crispy skin on pork belly?
Score the skin well and ensure it’s completely dry before seasoning.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or beef brisket as alternatives.
What’s the best way to serve crispy pork belly?
Serve it sliced with apple sauce or alongside roasted vegetables for balance.
Crispy Pork Belly Slices with Cider
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the irresistible delight of crispy pork belly slices infused with sweet apple cider. This dish features a mouthwatering contrast between golden, crackling skin and tender, juicy meat that melts in your mouth. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings, these slices are sure to become a cherished favorite, elevating any occasion and leaving your guests craving more.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly
- 1 cup apple cider (fresh-pressed)
- 2 tsp coarse sea salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
- Generously rub salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs all over the pork belly.
- Pour apple cider into a roasting pan until it just covers the bottom.
- Place the seasoned pork belly in the pan on top of the cider.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
