This Easy Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices recipe makes cooking a tasty meal simple! You’ll love the crispy skin and juicy meat that pairs perfectly with spices.
When I make this, I can’t resist sharing it with friends. Watching their faces light up when they taste the crispy goodness is the best part! It’s fun and so delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Belly: This is the star of the dish, providing a rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. If you can’t find pork belly, you can use pork shoulder or ribs, but results may slightly differ in texture and taste.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but feel free to swap it with vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer. Both will work well.
Spices: The smoked paprika adds a nice depth, but you can substitute it with regular paprika or cayenne for heat. If you’re avoiding garlic or onion powder, simply skip them or use fresh garlic and onion.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Pork Belly?
Getting that crispy skin on your pork belly is crucial and can be simple! Here’s how to do it right:
- First, pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness!
- Coat the slices evenly with olive oil and spices. This helps crisp the skin even more.
- Bake until golden brown and watch closely when broiling. Oven temperatures can vary, so check to avoid burning!
- Let the pork belly rest after baking. This helps the juices settle and enhances the flavor.
With these tips, your pork belly should turn out wonderfully crispy and delicious every time!
Easy Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork belly slices (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Optional: pinch of chili powder for heat
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 50 minutes total, with 10 minutes of prep work and 40 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be enjoying delicious, crispy pork belly in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for getting that lovely crispy texture on your pork belly. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Pork Belly:
Take the pork belly slices and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is super important as it helps the skin to crisp up beautifully during baking. You want them nice and dry!
3. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional chili powder if you’re feeling a bit spicy! This mix will give your pork belly a fantastic flavor.
4. Season the Pork Belly:
Rub the pork belly slices all over with olive oil first. This will help the spices stick and give it a nice crispy coat. Then, sprinkle your seasoning mix evenly over each slice, making sure to cover all sides.
5. Arrange for Cooking:
Place the seasoned pork belly slices in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have some space between them – this helps them cook evenly.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Bake the pork belly in your preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes. Flip the slices halfway through this time to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn golden brown and crispy around the edges.
7. Boost the Crispiness:
If you’d like extra crispy pork belly, switch your oven to broil during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning – broilers can be pretty intense!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the pork belly slices from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more delicious!
9. Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! Enjoy these flavorful, crispy pork belly slices as a main dish or snack. They are sure to be a hit!
This recipe gives you tender pork belly with a crispy outer layer. It’s easy, tasty, and perfect for a quick meal or a gathering!
FAQ for Easy Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Yes, while pork belly is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with pork shoulder or even pork ribs. Just keep in mind that the texture and cooking time may vary slightly, as these cuts have different fat content.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Belly Slices?
Store any leftover pork belly slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, so they retain some crispiness.
Can I Freeze Cooked Pork Belly?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked pork belly slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before reheating.
What Can I Serve with Pork Belly Slices?
Pork belly slices pair wonderfully with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or over rice or noodles to soak up any drippings. They also make great toppings for tacos or sandwiches!
