If there’s one dish that delivers irresistible texture and bold flavor, it’s crispy pork belly. Every bite is a combination of shatteringly crisp skin and tender, juicy meat, making it one of the most satisfying pork dishes you can prepare at home.
I still remember the first time I made it—I was amazed by how a simple process turned a humble cut of pork into something truly special.
With just a few key steps, you can achieve that signature crunch while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Whether served as the star of a meal, paired with rice, or sliced into bite-sized appetizers, this crispy pork belly recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Why This Crispy Pork Belly Recipe Stands Out
Crispy pork belly is all about contrast—light, crunchy skin balanced with rich, tender meat. But achieving that perfect balance requires the right preparation and cooking method.
- Super Crispy, Crackling Skin – The pork is dried, salted, and slow-roasted to remove excess moisture, ensuring the skin crisps up beautifully.
- Tender, Flavorful Meat – Cooking at low heat first keeps the inside juicy, while a final blast of heat creates that signature golden crust.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor – A simple combination of salt, vinegar, and seasonings enhances the pork’s natural taste without overpowering it.
- Great for Any Occasion – Serve it as a main dish, side, or appetizer, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.
The Key to Achieving the Best Crispy Pork Belly
The key to crispy pork belly is removing moisture from the skin while keeping the meat juicy. If the skin is too wet, it steams instead of crisps, leaving you with a chewy texture instead of a satisfying crunch.
Drying the skin overnight and scoring it properly allows heat to penetrate, creating that crispy, crackling top layer.
Another trick? A final blast of high heat. After slow-roasting, increasing the temperature puffs up the skin, ensuring every bite has that addictive crunch. It’s a simple step that makes all the difference.
Must-Have Ingredients for the Perfect Crispy Pork Belly
This dish relies on a few key ingredients to enhance the natural flavors of the pork.
- Pork Belly – Choose a well-balanced cut with equal fat and meat layers for the best texture.
- Salt – The most important ingredient for crisping the skin and seasoning the meat.
- Vinegar – Helps dry out the skin and enhances the crunch.
- Garlic & Pepper – Adds subtle seasoning to the meat without overpowering it.
- Oil – A light coating helps the skin blister and crisp evenly.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Crispy Pork Belly
Making crispy pork belly is simple, but requires patience to get the perfect texture.
- Prep the Pork – Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels, then score the skin with a sharp knife in a crisscross pattern.
- Season the Meat – Rub salt, pepper, and garlic into the meat side, keeping the skin dry. Brush the skin with vinegar and let it dry in the fridge overnight.
- Slow Roast Until Tender – Place the pork on a wire rack and roast at 300°F (150°C) for 2 hours until the meat is tender.
- Increase the Heat for Extra Crispiness – Raise the temperature to 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes, watching as the skin bubbles and crisps.
- Rest & Slice – Let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing into crispy, golden pieces.
The result? Juicy, flavorful pork with an ultra-crispy skin that shatters with every bite.
What to Serve with Crispy Pork Belly
Pairing crispy pork belly with the right sides creates a balanced, satisfying meal. Here are some great options:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Steamed Jasmine Rice | A neutral base that soaks up the rich pork flavors. |
| Garlic Stir-Fried Vegetables | Adds freshness and a slight crunch to contrast the crispy pork. |
| Pickled Vegetables | The acidity cuts through the richness, making each bite balanced. |
| Spicy Vinegar Dipping Sauce | Enhances the flavors with a tangy, peppery kick. |
| Mashed Potatoes | A creamy, buttery side that pairs well with crispy textures. |
| Asian Slaw | Light and refreshing, complementing the deep flavors of the pork. |
How to Store and Reheat Crispy Pork Belly
Crispy pork belly is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store and reheat it while keeping the texture as crispy as possible.
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Best Way to Store Crispy Pork Belly
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Crispy Pork Belly for Maximum Crunch
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until the skin re-crisps.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes for a quick, crispy finish.
- Avoid the Microwave: It makes the skin soggy instead of crispy.
Expert Tips for Crispy, Crackling Pork Belly
- Scoring the skin allows heat to penetrate, ensuring even crispiness.
- Letting the pork dry overnight removes excess moisture, creating that signature crunch.
- Cooking at low heat first keeps the meat juicy while crisping the skin properly.
- Using a wire rack prevents the pork from sitting in its own juices, which could make the skin soft.
- Brushing vinegar on the skin helps enhance the crisping process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crispy Pork Belly
1. Why isn’t my pork belly skin crispy?
If the skin isn’t crispy, it’s likely because there was too much moisture. Make sure to dry the skin overnight and score it properly before cooking.
2. Can I use an air fryer instead of an oven?
Yes! Cook at 300°F (150°C) for 40 minutes, then increase to 400°F (200°C) for another 10 minutes to crisp the skin.
3. Should I cover the pork while roasting?
No, covering it traps steam and prevents the skin from crisping. Always roast uncovered.
4. What’s the best way to slice crispy pork belly?
Use a sharp knife and press down firmly to cut through the crispy skin without breaking it apart.
5. Can I make crispy pork belly ahead of time?
Yes! Roast it ahead, then re-crisp the skin in the oven or air fryer right before serving.
Crispy Pork Belly Recipe
Equipment
- Wire Rack For elevating the pork belly while roasting
- Sharp Knife For scoring the pork skin
- Roasting Pan To catch rendered fat while cooking
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly skin-on
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt for crisping the skin
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar to enhance crispiness
- 1 clove garlic minced, for flavor
- 1 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil for extra crisping
Instructions
- Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels and score the skin in a crisscross pattern.
- Rub salt, pepper, and garlic into the meat side, keeping the skin dry. Brush the skin with vinegar.
- Let the pork belly dry in the fridge uncovered for at least 12 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the pork on a wire rack over a roasting pan and cook for 2 hours.
- Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and roast for an additional 30 minutes until the skin is crispy.
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, broil for an additional 5 minutes at the end of cooking.
- Use a sharp knife to score the skin for even crisping.
- Letting the pork dry overnight helps create the best texture.
Carrie is a food writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience. She has worked for some of the biggest names in the food industry, including Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and Martha Stewart Living.
As the Editor in Chief of IntroChicago.com, Carrie oversees all of the content on the site. She also manages the team of contributing writers and editors, who help to create delicious recipes, helpful tips, and informative articles that you’ll find on the site.
A native of the Chicago area, Carrie is passionate about all things food. She loves trying new restaurants and experimenting with new recipes in her kitchen. She’s also a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, so she knows a thing or two about food!