Sticky Chinese Pork Belly

Introduction:

This Sticky Chinese Pork Belly recipe delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork with a sweet, sticky, and slightly spicy glaze. It’s the perfect dish for a hearty meal, combining flavors of soy, honey, garlic, and spices. The slow-cooking process ensures that the pork belly is juicy and flavorful with a caramelized coating. This recipe is easy to follow and offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, making it a favorite for family dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900g) pork belly, skin removed and cut into 2-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Belly:
   • Preheat your oven to 320°F (160°C).
   • Place the pork belly cubes in a pot of boiling water and simmer for 10-15 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and pat the pork belly dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Marinade:
   • In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add chili flakes if using.
3. Marinate the Pork:
   • Place the pork belly cubes in a large bowl or plastic bag, pour the marinade over the pork, and mix until all pieces are evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
4. Roast the Pork Belly:
   • Transfer the marinated pork belly to a roasting tray lined with foil. Cover the tray with foil and roast in the oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting occasionally with the marinade.
   • After the pork is tender, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and roast uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the pork to caramelize and become sticky.
5. Serve:
   • Once the pork is sticky and caramelized, remove from the oven and transfer to a serving dish.
   • Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with rice or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

This Sticky Chinese Pork Belly is the ultimate combination of tender meat and a rich, flavorful glaze. The slow-roasting process ensures that the pork belly is soft and juicy, while the final high-heat caramelization gives it a deliciously sticky finish. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal or when you want to impress guests with a restaurant-quality recipe at home.