Pork Belly Bites

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When you want the ultimate melt-in-your-mouth comfort food experience, Pork Belly Bites are unmatched. Often called “meat candy,” these bite-sized cubes of pork belly are slow-cooked or roasted until the fat renders down into buttery tenderness, then crisped up and glazed in a sticky, sweet-and-savory barbecue sauce.

Here is a foolproof recipe that transforms humble pork belly into an irresistible, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main course.

Crispy Glazed Pork Belly Bites

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 2.5 to 3 hours
  • Servings: 4 to 6

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs skinless pork belly: Cut into uniform 1.5-inch cubes.
  • Rub Seasonings:
    • 2 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
    • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
    • 1 tsp garlic powder
    • 1 tsp onion powder
    • 1 tsp ground mustard
    • 1.5 tsp kosher salt
    • 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • Glaze & Finish:
    • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into small pats)
    • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
    • ¾ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce

Instructions

1.Prep and Cube the Pork Belly:Cut into even 1.5-inch cubes.

Using a sharp knife, trim any excess hard skin if present, and cut the pork belly slab into clean, uniform 1.5-inch cubes. Uniform sizing ensures they render and crisp at the same rate.
2.Apply the Dry Rub:Coat all sides thoroughly with spices.

Place the pork cubes in a large bowl. In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the rub over the pork belly and toss thoroughly until every piece is generously coated.
3.Low and Slow Roast (Phase 1):Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).

Arrange the seasoned pork belly cubes in a single layer on a wire rack set inside a foil-lined baking sheet (fat side up). Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 2 to 2.5 hours. This low, slow heat renders out the excess fat and makes the meat fork-tender.
4.Drain and Glaze (Phase 2):Drain fat and transfer to a disposable pan or dish.

Remove the pork belly from the oven. Drain away the rendered liquid fat. Transfer the tender cubes into a clean baking dish or disposable aluminum pan. Toss them gently with the barbecue sauce, honey, and dot the top with small pats of butter.
5.Caramelize the Glaze:Caramelize at 350°F (175°C).

Return the glazed pork belly bites to the oven (bump the temperature up to 350°F / 175°C) and bake uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, until the sauce bubbles, thickens, and caramelizes into a sticky, glossy coating.
6.Rest and Serve:Rest briefly before serving.

Let the pork belly bites rest for 5 to 10 minutes so the molten sugar glaze sets slightly before serving. Serve warm with toothpicks as an appetizer.

How to Serve It

  • As an Epic Appetizer: Serve on a platter with toothpicks, garnished with finely sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds.
  • Over Comfort Grains: Spoon them over a bed of creamy grits, garlic mashed potatoes, or steamed rice to soak up the rich, savory glaze.

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