crispy pork belly

Ingredients

– 2 pounds pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon pink curing salt (optional, but recommended for food safety)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Prep the pork belly: Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels.
2. Mix the cure: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, and pink curing salt (if using).
3. Cure the pork belly: Rub the cure mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly. Place the pork belly on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a tray. Let it cure in the refrigerator for at least 2 days or up to 5 days.
4. Rinse and dry: After the curing process, remove the pork belly from the refrigerator and rinse off the cure under cold running water. Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels.
5. Braise the pork belly: In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, and vegetable oil. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and add the pork belly. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Braise the pork belly for 2-3 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Crisp the pork belly: Remove the pork belly from the pot and let it cool slightly. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork belly on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a tray. Roast the pork belly in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve: Slice the crispy pork belly into thick slabs and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

– Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork belly reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
– For an extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature to broil (high) and broil the pork belly for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
– Serve the crispy pork belly with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad.
– Experiment with different flavor combinations, such as adding Asian-inspired spices like five-spice powder or hoisin sauce to the cure mixture.