Crispy Roasted Pork Belly Cubes
Pork belly is prized for its rich layers of meat and fat, which become irresistibly tender and flavorful when roasted. By cutting it into cubes and roasting until the skin turns golden and crisp, you get bite-sized pieces that are perfect for sharing or serving as a main dish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly (skin-on, cut into cubes)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Pork Belly
- Pat pork belly cubes dry with paper towels.
- Score the skin lightly with a sharp knife.
- Rub with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and five-spice powder.
Step 2: Marinate
- Mix soy sauce, vinegar, and Shaoxing wine.
- Coat pork belly cubes and let marinate for 1–2 hours (or overnight in the fridge).
Step 3: Roast
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place pork belly cubes on a wire rack over a baking tray.
- Roast for 40–50 minutes, turning halfway, until skin is crispy and meat tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces (soy-chili, hoisin, or vinegar-garlic).
Practical Tips
- Dry the skin thoroughly before roasting for maximum crispiness.
- Use a wire rack to allow fat to drip away and prevent sogginess.
- For extra crunch, broil for 3–5 minutes at the end.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an air fryer for crisp texture.
Conclusion
Crispy roasted pork belly cubes are a perfect balance of tender meat and crunchy skin. With simple seasoning and careful roasting, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home that’s ideal for family meals or festive occasions.