Grilled bacon

Grilled pork belly with mashed potatoes and cabbage salad

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I will share with you a delicious and easy recipe: grilled pork belly, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and crunchy cabbage salad. It is a perfect choice for a spring day, especially when the sun is shining and the craving for grilling becomes irresistible. I know some of you prefer sausages, but let’s enjoy a healthy dish, free of additives and preservatives!

A brief story about pork belly

Pork belly is a popular choice in many dishes, admired for its juiciness and flavors. Used for generations, it is a versatile ingredient, ideal for grilling, frying, or baking. Grilling the belly keeps it juicy and intensifies its flavor, turning it into an unforgettable delicacy. Moreover, it is a wonderful way to gather family and friends around the grill, enjoying good food and pleasant conversations.

Ingredients

- 1.5 kg pork belly (choose a fresh piece with a thin layer of fat for a richer taste)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (you can also use hot paprika if you prefer a bit of spice)
- 200 g bacon (sliced, for added flavor)
- 1 kg potatoes (for the mash)
- 1 small cabbage (for the salad)
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil (for the salad)
- 1-2 tablespoons vinegar (optional, for the salad)

Necessary utensils

- A grill or grill pan
- A large bowl for marinating the meat
- A cutting board
- A large pot for the mash
- A hand mixer or potato masher
- A salad bowl

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the pork belly
Start by cleaning the pork belly of any skin or impurities. Cut the meat into thick slices of about 3-4 cm so that it cooks evenly. Place the slices in a large bowl.

2. Seasoning
Sprinkle salt, pepper, and paprika over the meat. Mix well to coat each piece of meat with the spices. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the meat marinate for about 1 hour. This step is essential as it allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, giving it a special taste.

3. Preparing the mashed potatoes
While the belly is marinating, you can prepare the mashed potatoes. Peel the potatoes, cut them into cubes, and boil them in a pot of salted water. Boil for 15-20 minutes or until they become soft. Drain the water and, using a hand mixer or a masher, mash the potatoes. Gradually add warm milk (about 200 ml) and butter (approximately 50 g) to achieve a creamy mash. Taste and adjust the salt to your liking.

4. Preparing the cabbage salad
Cut the cabbage into thin strips. Place it in a large bowl and add the olive oil and vinegar (if using). Mix well and let the salad sit for a few minutes to refresh the flavors. You can also add grated carrots or sesame seeds for extra texture and taste.

5. The grill
Meanwhile, prepare the grill. Make sure it is well heated before adding the pork belly. Place the slices of meat on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and form a delicious crust. Add the slices of bacon to the grill in the last 5 minutes to crisp them up, which will add a delightful flavor to the dish.

6. Serving
Once the pork belly is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the slices of belly alongside the mashed potatoes and cabbage salad. You can also add a few slices of tomatoes or cucumbers for extra freshness.

Helpful tips

- Choosing the meat: Buy pork belly from a trusted supplier to ensure it is fresh and of good quality. Good quality meat will make a difference in the final taste of the dish.
- Marinating: If you have time, you can let the meat marinate overnight in the refrigerator to intensify the flavors.
- Variations: You can add other spices to taste, such as garlic powder or herbs (rosemary, thyme). You can also experiment with marinade sauces, such as soy sauce or teriyaki sauce, for a different flavor.

Delicious pairings

This dish pairs perfectly with a cold beer or a dry red wine. If you prefer non-alcoholic beverages, a tomato juice or iced tea with lemon would be excellent choices.

Nutritional benefits

Pork belly is a good source of protein, essential for tissue development and repair. Potatoes are an excellent source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Cabbage, rich in vitamins and fiber, contributes to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use beef instead of pork?
Yes, you can replace pork belly with beef or chicken, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat chosen.

- What can I do with leftover meat?
Leftovers can be turned into delicious sandwiches or added to salads for a quick and tasty meal.

I hope this recipe for grilled pork belly with mashed potatoes and cabbage salad brings you joy in the kitchen and at your table! It’s perfect for a spring day spent with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!