Crispy Pork Belly 脆皮五花肉

This recipe creates a delicious and crispy pork belly dish that is a classic Chinese favorite. The pork belly is first boiled briefly with green onions, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns to help tenderize the meat and infuse it with aromatic flavors.
The marinated pork is then wrapped in foil, with the skin side facing up. A layer of salt is sprinkled evenly over the skin, which will help draw out moisture and create an extra crispy texture when baked.

When sliced and served, this Chinese Crispy Pork Belly dish is a feast for the senses. The contrasting textures and layers of flavor come together in every bite, making it a true celebration of the art of Chinese cuisine. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite accompaniments, this recipe is sure to delight and satisfy.

Ingredients:

- 3 lbs pork belly

- 1 tbsp five-spice powder

- 1 tbsp cumin powder

- 2 tsp white pepper powder

- 2 tsp salt

- 1 tbsp sugar

- 3 tbsp soy sauce

- 1 tbsp oyster sauce

- 1/2 tbsp chili powder

- 1 tbsp water

- 2 green onions, chopped

- 3 star anise

- 4 slices of ginger

- 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns

- White vinegar for brushing

Instructions:

1. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the green onions, ginger, and Sichuan peppercorns. Add the whole piece of pork belly and boil for 5 minutes.

2. Remove the pork belly and let it cool down. Use a fork to poke some holes on the skin. Cut the meat into small pieces, but do not cut through the skin.

3. In a bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients (five-spice powder, cumin powder, white pepper, salt, sugar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili powder, and water). Pour the marinade over the pork and gently massage it into the meat. Marinate for 20 minutes.

4. Wrap the marinated pork in foil, with the skin side up. Wipe the marinade on top, then brush a layer of white vinegar.

5. Sprinkle salt evenly over the skin, creating a layer.

6. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the pork for 8 minutes, then remove it from the oven and scrape off the salt layer. Brush the skin with white vinegar again.

7. Put the pork back in the oven and bake until the skin bubbles, about 8-15 minutes.

8. Cut the pork belly into small pieces and serve with your favorite sauces.