This Savory Herb-Crusted Pork Belly Roast is the ultimate comfort food with a crispy exterior and tender, succulent meat. It's perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal. This recipe combines aromatic herbs and a touch of sweetness, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
Pork belly is the star of this dish. When cooked right, it transforms into a mouthwatering combination of crispy skin and juicy meat. Olive oil helps crisp up the skin and keeps the meat moist. Sea salt and black pepper are classic seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of pork. The trio of herbs — rosemary, thyme, and sage — adds depth and an earthy aroma. Garlic brings a punchy, savory note. The apple cider vinegar adds a hint of acidity to balance the richness of the pork. Honey introduces a subtle sweetness, while chicken broth keeps everything moist and flavorful.
This savory roast pairs beautifully with a creamy mashed potato or a fresh, tangy coleslaw to cut through the richness. For a bit of sweetness, try serving it with caramelized apples or a simple apple sauce. A side of roasted root vegetables can complement the earthy herb flavors wonderfully.
First, crank up your oven to 450°F. You want it hot to kickstart that crispy skin. Grab your pork belly and score the skin in a criss-cross pattern. This helps the flavors sink in and creates that lovely crackle. Drizzle olive oil generously over the pork, ensuring it gets into those scores. Sprinkle sea salt and black pepper all over. It should look like it's got a nice coat of snow on top.
Next, in a small bowl, mix chopped rosemary, thyme, sage, and minced garlic. It should smell like a fresh herb garden. Rub this fragrant mix all over the pork, pressing it into the scored lines. This is where the magic happens — those herbs will infuse the meat with incredible flavor.
Now, place the pork belly on a roasting rack inside a baking dish. This setup allows the heat to circulate evenly, giving you that perfect crisp. In a separate bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture around the pork belly in the roasting pan. It’ll keep the meat juicy and add a delicious tangy sweetness.
Pop the pork into the oven and roast for 30 minutes. This high heat sets the skin and starts the browning process. After 30 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F. Continue roasting for another 1.5 hours, taking the time to baste occasionally. Basting helps keep the top moist and encourages even cooking.
Once done, let the pork belly rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful.
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