Slow Cooker Pork Belly: A Deliciously Tender and Flavorful Recipe
When it comes to rich and flavorful cuts of meat, pork belly reigns supreme. Known for its mouthwatering layers of tender meat and flavorful fat, pork belly becomes irresistibly delicious when slow-cooked to perfection. If you’re craving a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Pork Belly recipe is just what you need.
Slow cooking allows the pork belly to break down slowly over time, infusing it with incredible flavors. The result is a beautifully tender piece of meat that practically melts in your mouth. Plus, the hands-off cooking style of a slow cooker makes it perfect for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Why Pork Belly?
Pork belly is known for its rich layers of fat and meat, which transform into a succulent, tender texture when cooked low and slow. It’s an affordable cut of meat, easy to prepare, and has a beautiful balance of flavors that can be enhanced with spices, herbs, and marinades.
Slow Cooker Pork Belly
- 2 lbs about 0.9 kg pork belly
- 1 tsp 5 ml sea salt
Optional:
- with Fried Eggs
- Score the skin of the pork belly with a sharp knife. Make shallow cuts in a crisscross pattern to help the skin crisp up.
- Season both sides of the pork belly with sea salt.
- Place the pork belly in the slow cooker with the skin side up.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
- Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, allowing the pork belly to become tender and flavorful.
- If desired, you can broil the pork belly for a few minutes to further crisp up the skin before serving.
- Once cooked to your liking, slice the pork belly and serve.
Optional:
- Partnering Pork Belly with Fried Eggs.
- Crack the eggs into the frying pan and cook to your liking.
- Season the eggs with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Pork Belly
- Choose the Right Pork Belly: Look for a piece with a nice balance of meat and fat for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the pork belly before slow cooking locks in the flavors and gives it a beautiful color.
- Adjust Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the marinade by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
- Serve with a Crunchy Side: Pork belly is rich, so pairing it with a crunchy salad or pickled vegetables can balance the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Slow Cooker Pork Belly is a great recipe for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With minimal prep and a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that feels indulgent but is easy enough for any level of home cook. The slow cooking process infuses the pork belly with deep, rich flavors, making every bite a treat.
So next time you’re craving something special, let your slow cooker work its magic on this Slow Cooker Pork Belly recipe. You won’t regret it!
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