Pork belly with crispy crackling

Pork Belly with Crispy Crackling – A Delicacy Tied to Tradition

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: 6-8

Introduction

Our kitchen is filled with recipes that tell stories, and pork belly with crispy crackling is one of those dishes that makes us feel at home, regardless of the season. This recipe, inspired by culinary traditions, offers a perfect combination of juicy meat and a crispy crust that will win you over from the first taste. It is ideal as a main dish or as a cold appetizer, alongside pickles and a slice of fresh bread.

The Magic Ingredients

- 1 piece of pork belly (approximately 1.5 kg) – Choose a piece with an even layer of fat, which will contribute to the juiciness of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons of sea salt – Salt is the key to a successful brine.
- 2 tablespoons of sugar – This will help with caramelization and provide a hint of sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons of butcher's marinade (you can use the marinade from pastaidevanilie.ro) – A mix of garlic, black pepper, parsley, sea salt, chili, and white pepper for an intense flavor.
- 2-3 tablespoons of soy sauce – Adds depth of flavor.
- 2-3 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce – Enriches the flavors with an umami taste.
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme – An aromatic herb that pairs well with pork.
- 300 ml of red wine – Choose a quality wine to add complexity to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil – To grease the baking dish.

Step by Step: Cooking Pork Belly with Crispy Crackling

1. Brining - The First Step to Success

We start by preparing the brine, an essential step to achieve tender and juicy pork belly. In a large container, combine 2 tablespoons of sea salt, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of butcher's marinade. Add enough water to completely cover the piece of meat, about 1 liter. Mix well until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. This brine will penetrate the meat, giving it a rich flavor and unique texture.

2. Marinating - A Night of Rest

Add the pork belly to the brine, ensuring it is completely submerged. Cover the container with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This marinating time will make all the difference in terms of juiciness and flavor of the meat.

3. Preparing for the Oven

The next day, remove the pork belly from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid. Place it skin-side up in a greased baking dish. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Bake the pork belly for 30 minutes. This time will allow moisture to be retained and will help the crackling start to become crispy.

4. Preparing the Wine Sauce

During this time, bring the red wine to a boil in a saucepan. Add the soy and Worcestershire sauces, along with the dried thyme. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat to concentrate the flavors.

5. Combining the Flavors

After 30 minutes of baking, remove the pork from the oven and pour the hot sauce over the meat. Reduce the oven temperature to 160 degrees Celsius and let it bake slowly for another 2 hours. This process will ensure a tender texture and deep flavor. If you notice the sauce reducing too much, feel free to add a bit of water or wine to maintain moisture.

6. Cooling and Serving

After 2 hours, you can remove the pork belly from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. A good idea is to let it sit until the next day, as the flavors will intensify and the texture will improve. Slice it and serve with pickles and fresh bread for a delicious meal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This pork belly is versatile and can be served in various ways. You can serve it warm as a main dish, or cold as an appetizer. Pair it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal. Additionally, for an extra flavor boost, you can add some slices of caramelized apples or pears alongside the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can another type of meat be used?
Sure! This recipe can also be adapted for other types of meat, such as duck or turkey breast.

2. Can I omit the wine from the recipe?
Yes, you can omit the wine, but it adds depth of flavor. You can replace the wine with grape juice or water, but the taste will be different.

3. What sauces can I use instead of soy and Worcestershire sauce?
You can experiment with teriyaki sauces or gluten-free soy-based sauces if you have dietary restrictions.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork belly is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing muscle tissues. It also contains B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism. The fat in the meat, especially that on the crackling, provides a delicious texture, but it's best consumed in moderation.

Conclusion

Preparing pork belly with crispy crackling is a culinary experience that blends tradition with flavor. With each step, you will discover not just a recipe, but a story that spills onto the plate. Try this recipe at home and enjoy the moment when family and friends gather around the table, admiring and savoring this delicious dish. Enjoy your meal!