Crackling with flavor and boasting a perfect balance of tender meat and crispy skin, Salt Yard Pork Belly is a dish that never fails to impress at family gatherings or cozy nights in with loved ones. This recipe brings together the rich flavors of succulent pork belly with the subtle warmth of herbs and spices for a truly satisfying dish that is sure to become a household favorite.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin on
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp sea salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp dried thyme
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pork Belly:** Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the pork belly on a clean surface, skin side up. Using a sharp knife, score the skin diagonally in a crisscross pattern, making sure not to cut into the meat. This will help the fat render and the skin crisp up during cooking.
2. **Season the Pork Belly:** Drizzle the olive oil over the pork belly, ensuring it is evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix together the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to work it into the cuts on the skin.
3. **Roast the Pork Belly:** Place the seasoned pork belly on a wire rack set over a baking tray, skin side up. This will allow the heat to circulate around the pork belly, ensuring it cooks evenly. Roast in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender.
4. **Broil for Crispy Skin:** Once the pork belly is cooked through, increase the oven temperature to a high broil setting. Place the pork belly under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and crackling. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
5. **Rest and Serve:** Remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent dish. Slice the pork belly into thick pieces and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
6. **Enjoy Your Salt Yard Pork Belly:** Indulge in the delicious flavors and textures of this Salt Yard Pork Belly dish. The crispy, golden skin complements the juicy meat, while the aromatic seasonings add depth and warmth to every bite. Whether enjoyed as a special weekend treat or as a star attraction at a dinner party, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Prepare this Salt Yard Pork Belly for your next gathering and watch as it disappears in moments, garnering you rave reviews and requests for the recipe. With its simplicity and incredible flavors, this dish is bound to become a regular feature on your menu rotation.
