There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the tantalizing aroma of roasting pork belly wafts through the air. The sound of sizzling crackling skin makes my mouth water, and it instantly transports me to cozy family gatherings where we bond over delicious, home-cooked meals. Just the thought of this Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly brings a smile to my face, especially as it transforms into a rich, flavorful centerpiece fit for any occasion.
I discovered this recipe after one too many nights of fast food and uninspired eating. The crunchy, caramelized layers of this pork belly, paired with a sweet and savory honey-sherry glaze, quickly became a favorite in my home. It’s the perfect antidote to meal monotony, impressing guests and satisfying cravings. Best yet? This dish is surprisingly easy to whip up, allowing you to showcase your culinary flair without stress.
Let me walk you through the steps to create this delectable treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly
- This Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- The explosion of flavors from the sweet honey and savory spices creates a mouthwatering experience that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- Versatile enough to seize the spotlight at any gathering, this dish can be served at parties, family dinners, or even a special date night.
- The stunning visual appeal of the perfectly caramelized crackling skin will have your guests reaching for their cameras before they dive into this delicious centerpiece.
Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly Ingredients
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of this Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly!
For the Pork
- Pork belly – This cut offers tenderness and fat, essential for achieving crispy results.
- Kosher salt – Enhances the flavor while helping to draw out moisture for a crispy skin.
For the Spice Rub
- Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the glaze.
- Smoked paprika – Infuses a subtle smokiness, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
- Garlic powder – Provides a rich aroma and taste, making every bite irresistible.
- Cayenne powder – Adds a touch of heat to balance the sweetness of the honey.
For the Glaze
- Honey – This natural sweetener creates a beautiful caramelization on the pork belly, enhancing the taste.
- Dry sherry – Offers a hint of acidity and complexity to the glaze, making it truly special.
How to Make Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly
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Score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern. This step allows the fat to render and the skin to become irresistibly crispy as it cooks.
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Combine kosher salt, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne powder in a small bowl. This spice rub creates a flavor-packed coating that will take your pork belly to the next level.
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Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly, ensuring even coverage. Then, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
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Bring the pork belly to room temperature before cooking. Preheat the oven to 350°F. This helps the pork cook evenly and ensures a crispy outcome.
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Place the pork belly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, skin-side up. Roast in the oven for 60 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
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Mix honey and dry sherry in a small bowl to create the glaze. This sweet and savory concoction will coat the pork belly beautifully!
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Baste the pork belly with the honey-sherry mixture and lower the oven temperature to 250°F. This slow cook will allow the glaze to caramelize beautifully over the tender meat.
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Cook for an additional 20 minutes, then baste again and cook for 10 more minutes. This ensures a rich flavor and perfect glaze coating.
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Allow the pork belly to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.
Optional: Serve with fresh herbs for an added pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that beautifully complement the richness of the pork.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy dish adds a refreshing contrast to the succulent pork, balancing the flavors perfectly.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture pairs wonderfully with the crispy pork, soaking up the delicious juices with every bite.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness mirrors the glaze of the pork belly while providing a vibrant pop of color to your plate.
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Stir-Fried Veggies: A medley of colorful veggies tossed in soy sauce adds a healthy, crunchy element that enhances the meal's overall balance.
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Rice Pilaf: The fluffy grains provide a hearty base that allows the flavors of the pork and glaze to shine through, making every mouthful delightful.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until crispy and drizzled with balsamic reduction, these sprouts are a flavorful bite that harmonizes with the pork's sweetness.
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Chilled White Wine: A glass of crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc lifts the whole meal, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
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Chocolate Mousse: Cap off your meal with a touch of indulgence; this velvety dessert serves as a sumptuous finale to the savory pork.
Make Ahead Options
These Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the spice rub and apply it to the pork belly up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. Simply refrigerate the seasoned pork belly and remember to bring it to room temperature before cooking. The honey-glaze mixture can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you're ready to cook, just roast the pork belly and baste with the glaze for a restaurant-quality finish. By prepping ahead, you'll enjoy a delicious, stress-free meal that feels just as fresh as if you made it all in one go!
How to Store and Freeze Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly
Room Temperature: Store leftover pork belly at room temperature for no more than 2 hours after cooking to prevent bacteria growth.
Fridge: Keep your Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork belly in an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place thawed pork belly in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the skin is crispy again.
Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly to new heights!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of chili powder to the spice rub for an extra layer of heat that balances the sweetness beautifully.
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Apple Cider Vinegar: Substitute dry sherry with apple cider vinegar in the glaze for a tangy, fruity undertone that complements the pork perfectly.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the spice rub for an aromatic, earthy flavor that adds freshness to each bite.
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Brown Sugar: Swap honey for brown sugar in the glaze for a deeper caramelization and rich flavor that creates a delightful contrast to the pork.
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Citrus Zing: Add zest from an orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright, refreshing note that cuts through the richness of the pork belly.
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Maple Syrup: Replace honey with maple syrup to give the glaze a unique, warm sweetness that enchants the palate and makes it irresistible.
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Smoky Flavor: A touch of liquid smoke in the glaze will infuse a deep, smoky essence into the pork belly, fantastic for a barbeque twist.
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Plant-Based Option: Try a jackfruit substitute for a vegan-friendly version; marinate and roast as directed for a delicious plant-based alternative to pork belly.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly, make sure to score the skin deeply enough to allow the fat to render but avoid cutting into the meat.
- Always allow the pork belly to come to room temperature before roasting, as this promotes even cooking and crispiness.
- For maximum flavor infusion, marinate the pork with the spice rub overnight rather than just 30 minutes.
- When basting with the glaze, be sure to use a brush for an even layer and consider repeating the basting process multiple times during the final cooking stage for an unbeatable caramelized result.
Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pork belly?
Absolutely! When choosing pork belly, look for a piece with a good balance of meat and fat. The skin should be firm and dry, with no dark spots all over. If possible, select pork belly that has an even thickness, which promotes even cooking.
How can I store leftovers of Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly?
After enjoying your delicious meal, store any leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's essential to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up; this helps maintain its marvelous flavor and texture. When you're ready to eat, reheat it in the oven to keep that crispy skin intact.
Can I freeze Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly, first let it cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw the pork belly overnight in the fridge and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to restore its delicious crispiness.
What can I do if my pork belly skin isn’t getting crispy?
Very! If your pork belly skin isn’t turning crispy, you might want to check if the skin was adequately scored. Make sure the cuts are deep enough to let the fat render properly. Also, if there’s excess moisture, it's a good idea to pat the skin dry before roasting. During cooking, you can increase the oven temperature temporarily to 400°F for the last few minutes, which will help the skin achieve that coveted crispy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly?
Of course! If you're serving guests with dietary restrictions, remember that pork belly is rich in fat and calories. For those who might be avoiding pork or have dietary restrictions, consider looking into a suitable alternative like chicken thighs or turkey skin roasted with a similar honey glaze. If allergies are a concern, ensure that everyone is aware of the ingredients, especially the honey and dry sherry, which can be a concern for some individuals.
How do I know when the pork belly is properly cooked?
To guarantee perfect cooking, use a meat thermometer! The internal temperature of the pork belly should reach about 145°F. Additionally, the skin should be crispy and golden brown. After removing it from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing—this helps keep the juices in and provides a succulent bite. Remember, the more patience you have during cooking, the more delightful the pork belly will be!
Honey Glazed Crispy Pork Belly
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern.
- Combine kosher salt, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne powder in a small bowl.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
- Bring the pork belly to room temperature before cooking. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Place the pork belly on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, skin-side up. Roast for 60 minutes.
- Mix honey and dry sherry in a small bowl to create the glaze.
- Baste the pork belly with the honey-sherry mixture and lower the oven temperature to 250°F. Cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Baste again and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Allow the pork belly to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
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