Oven-roasted pork belly

Delicious roasted pork belly recipe with crispy fries

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 24 hours
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 26 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Who doesn't love a juicy, perfectly roasted pork steak served alongside crispy fries? This roasted pork belly recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Additionally, marinating the day before helps intensify the flavor and achieve tender meat.

Recipe history
Pork roast is a traditional dish in many cultures, often associated with holiday meals and family gatherings. Over time, each region has developed its own techniques and flavors, but the essence remains the same: a well-seasoned piece of meat, cooked slowly to bring out its natural flavor. This recipe combines tradition with modernity, bringing you a delicious meal, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 1 large piece of pork belly with ribs (about 1.5 kg)
- 1 packet of pork rib seasoning (e.g., Knorr)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of red pepper paste
- 250 ml of dry white wine
- 1 kg of red potatoes
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder with red pepper
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- Oil for frying

Preparation steps

1. Marinating the meat
Start by preparing the pork belly. Use a sharp knife to make a few cuts in the meat along its length. These incisions will allow the marinade to penetrate better. In a bowl, combine the red pepper paste, salt, pepper, chopped garlic, and pork rib seasoning. Mix well until you get a smooth paste.

2. Applying the marinade
Rub the meat well with the obtained paste, ensuring it gets into all the cuts. Place the meat in a covered container and pour the white wine over it. Cover the container with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This step is essential as marinating helps the flavors penetrate and makes the meat more tender.

3. Cooking the meat
The next day, preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the pork belly in a baking tray, with the rib side up. During baking, turn the meat every 30 minutes to achieve even browning. Cook for about 2 hours or until the meat is well browned and tender. You can check if it's cooked using a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 70 degrees Celsius.

4. Preparing the potatoes
While the meat is baking, peel the red potatoes and cut them into large pieces. Boil them in salted water for about 10-15 minutes, until they become slightly soft but not fully cooked. Drain them well and let them cool slightly.

5. Frying the potatoes
In a deep skillet, heat the oil until it becomes hot. Add the potatoes and fry them until they turn golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and garlic powder with red pepper for added flavor.

6. Serving
Once the pork belly is ready, let it rest for 10-15 minutes, then cut it into thick slices. Serve it alongside the crispy fries and a fresh green salad to complete the meal. You can also add a slice of fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Practical tips
- Make sure to choose a piece of meat with a generous layer of fat; this will help maintain the moisture and juiciness of the meat.
- If you don't have time for marinating, you can season the meat with salt, pepper, and garlic a few hours before cooking, but the flavors won't be as intense.
- You can experiment with different spices, adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe works well with other types of meat, such as chicken thighs or beef. Cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat chosen.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last up to 3 days. You can reheat the roast in the oven or microwave.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs perfectly with pork belly. Additionally, a light blonde beer can complement the flavors of the meat.

4. Can I add vegetables to the oven?
Of course! Add carrots, onions, or zucchini to the tray alongside the meat to create a more complex and healthy dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits
A serving of pork belly (approximately 150 g) contains about 300-350 calories, depending on the fat content. It is a good source of protein and B vitamins, essential for metabolism and energy. The fries can add about 200 calories per serving, but they are also a good source of carbohydrates and potassium.

This roasted pork belly recipe with crispy fries is perfect for family meals, bringing a touch of tradition and comfort to the table. The savory and aromatic taste of the meat, along with the crunch of the fries, will turn any meal into a celebration. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste!