Pork belly

Pork belly is considered one of the most flavorful and succulent meats worldwide, especially in East Asian cuisine, with dishes such as Chinese braised pork belly and Korean Bossam. However, pork belly has become increasingly popular in Western cuisine, with chefs preparing the meat in a variety of styles, including grilling, frying, and braising. Here’s what you need to know about pork belly and why you should try it.

What is pork belly?

Pork belly is the meat that comes from the underside of a pig’s belly, and it’s a fatty cut of meat that has tender meat marbled through the layers of fat. The fat content on this meat is relatively high, making it prone to juicy, tender, and flavorful meat when cooked correctly.

How do you prepare pork belly?

There are several ways to prepare pork belly, with each method creating a unique flavor and texture. One of the most popular ways to cook this meat is to slow-roast or braise it over low heat. This method allows the fat to melt slowly throughout the cooking process, resulting in a sweet and tender meat that falls apart with each bite.

Another preparation method commonly found in East Asian cuisines is to cure the pork belly with a mixture of spices and let it dry out in the sun or in a cool, dry place for a few days before cooking. This process adds a unique and robust flavor, similar to bacon.

Why should you try pork belly?

Pork belly is an incredibly versatile cut of pork that can be transformed into a variety of dishes. Its tender meat, combined with its fatty content, creates a unique and desirable texture that is incredibly satisfying to eat.

Pork belly has a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with a variety of spices and ingredients. It is also an excellent source of protein and a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy addition to any diet.

One of the best things about pork belly is its versatility in the kitchen. It’s easy to cook with and transform into a range of dishes, from simple sandwiches to more complex recipes. Its meat also pairs well with a wide range of flavors, making it a staple ingredient in many recipes.

Where can you find pork belly?

Pork belly can be found at most local meat markets, grocery stores, or specialty meat shops. You can also find it at restaurants that serve East Asian cuisine, or those that specialize in BBQ meats.

Conclusion

Pork belly is a delicious and versatile cut of pork that is worth trying. Its rich flavor, tender meat, and fatty content make it a favorite of chefs and home cooks. Whether you slow roast, braise, or cure it, pork belly can be prepared in a variety of ways, and its meat pairs well with a range of ingredients and spices. So next time you’re at the meat market, consider picking up a cut of pork belly and treat yourself to a delicious dish.