How to Make Thai-Style Crispy Pork Belly
Thai-style crispy pork belly, known for its crunchy skin and juicy meat, is a favorite dish that delights many. This recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve that perfect texture and flavor that will have everyone craving for more.
Ingredients
- 1 kg pork belly
- 2 tablespoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of five-spice powder
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Belly
Start by rinsing the pork belly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels. Next, score the skin using a sharp knife, making shallow cuts into the skin without cutting into the meat. This helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
After scoring, rub the salt and five-spice powder all over the pork, ensuring it gets into the scored sections.
Let the pork belly sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
Mix the white vinegar with baking soda in a small bowl. This mixture will help the skin become extra crispy.
After the pork has marinated with salt and spices, spread the vinegar and baking soda mixture evenly over the skin. Make sure to avoid getting any of the mixture on the meat itself.
Step 3: Dry the Skin
For the best results, you need to dry out the skin. Place the marinated pork belly on a wire rack in the refrigerator, uncovered, for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This will help the skin to dry out and become extremely crispy during cooking.
Step 4: Cooking the Pork Belly
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Line a baking tray with foil for easy cleanup.
Place the pork belly skin-side up on the tray and roast for about 90 minutes. This low and slow cooking will allow the fat to render, resulting in tender meat.
Step 5: Crisping the Skin
After 90 minutes, increase the temperature of the oven to 220°C (430°F). Continue roasting the pork belly for another 20 to 30 minutes, or until the skin is blistered and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, ensuring a juicy bite.
Slice the pork belly into squares or strips, and serve with a dipping sauce, such as a tangy chili sauce or a sweet soy sauce, for a wonderful flavor experience.
Enjoy Your Thai-Style Crispy Pork Belly!
Enjoy your deliciously crispy and flavorful Thai-style pork belly as part of a meal or as a delightful snack. Pair it with jasmine rice and a side of green vegetables for a satisfying and authentic Thai dining experience.
This recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, making it a must-try for any home cook!