There’s a certain joy that comes from the sizzle of pork belly gently browning in a hot pan, the kind of sound that promises an unforgettable meal ahead. I discovered this recipe for Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly during one of those evenings when nothing but comfort food would do. The aroma of garlic and ginger infused with the sweetness of brown sugar and the warmth of Chinese five-spice has a way of wrapping around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly night.
As I wandered through my local market, the lush cuts of pork belly called to me—perfect for a lengthy, flavorful braise that transforms this humble ingredient into something extraordinary. Ideal for impressing guests or simply satisfying a craving, this dish is surprisingly easy. With minimal effort and a little patience, you’ll create a rich, tender pork belly that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and fresh greens. Join me as we dive into this journey of flavor and comfort, and prepare to savor every crispy, succulent bite!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly
Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal prep and lets your crockpot do the magic while you relax or attend to other tasks. Tender and Flavorful: The combination of garlic, ginger, and Chinese five-spice transforms pork belly into a melt-in-your-mouth delight. Crowd-pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress friends and family alike. Versatile: Serve it over steamed rice, wrap it in lettuce, or pair it with greens for a refreshing balance. Crispy Finish: After the slow cooking, a quick sear elevates the dish with a crunchy texture—truly a delight for the senses! Make it your go-to recipe for comfort and flavor!
Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly Ingredients
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure with these simple yet flavorful ingredients!
For the Pork
- 2 lb pork belly – Cut into pieces for even cooking, ensuring each bite is juicy.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Helps achieve a beautiful sear and crispy finish.
For the Flavor Base
- 1 garlic bulb – Peeled and coarsely chopped to infuse a fragrant aroma.
- 3 red onions – Diced roughly to release sweetness during cooking.
- 1 inch ginger – Sliced thin for a bold kick of flavor throughout the dish.
- Red chili slices (optional) – Add for a touch of heat and vibrant color.
For the Sauce
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – Ensure it’s firmly packed for a proper balance of sweetness.
- 2 cups water – Needed to create a savory braising liquid that tenderizes the pork.
- 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder – This adds a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the pork belly.
- 2 star anise – Infuses a wonderful depth of flavor; don’t skip this aromatic!
- 1/2 cup tamari – I recommend San-J for a gluten-free option, enhancing the umami.
For Serving
- Steamed rice – A perfect base to soak up the rich flavors of the sauce.
- Greens – Fresh greens balance the dish with a crisp, light contrast.
Now, with these ingredients at the ready, you’re just steps away from creating your own Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly masterpiece!
How to Make Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly
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Heat the Oil: Begin by heating a generous amount of olive oil in a large, heavy-based frying pan over medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful sear.
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Brown the Pork Belly: Cook the diced pork belly in batches for about 5–8 minutes, turning occasionally until each piece is browned and golden. Remove the pork belly from the pan and set aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add the coarsely chopped garlic, roughly diced red onions, and thinly sliced ginger. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they soften and release their delicious aroma, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
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Add the Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the firmly packed brown sugar, tamari, Chinese five-spice powder, star anise, and the water. Stir well to combine all the goodness!
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Combine and Simmer: Return the browned pork belly to the pan, ensuring all pieces are submerged in that rich sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer—watch those flavors meld together!
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Slow Cook: Once simmering, reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover, and let it cook for 2 hours. Check halfway through, adding 1/2 cup of water if the sauce thickens too much.
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Check for Tenderness: After 2 hours, check if the pork is tender enough. If not, continue cooking in 15-minute intervals, adding 1/4 cup of water as necessary until it reaches your desired tenderness.
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Thicken the Sauce: Once the pork is melt-in-your-mouth tender, remove the lid and increase the heat to high. Cook for an additional 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken up that luscious sauce.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with optional sliced chili for a pop of heat and color if desired. Serve warm with steamed rice and fresh greens to soak up all the delicious flavors!
Optional: Sprinkle with fresh herbs for added flavor and garnish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly are a dream for busy home cooks, allowing for easy meal prep! You can brown the pork belly and prepare the aromatic base (garlic, onions, and ginger) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate them separately in airtight containers. If you’re feeling extra organized, you can mix the sauce ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, simply combine everything in your crockpot, cook as instructed, and finish with a quick sear for that coveted crispy texture. The result? A flavorful meal that feels just as fresh and satisfying, saved for a hectic weeknight!
Expert Tips for Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly
Be Patient: Allow the pork belly to braise for the full 2 hours to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
Watch the Sauce: Keep an eye on the sauce level during cooking. If it starts to thicken too much, add a little water to prevent sticking.
Sear Well: Browning the pork belly before slow cooking is essential for developing rich flavors, so don’t rush this step!
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. A dash more tamari or sugar can elevate the dish.
Crispy Finish: For an extra crispy layer, don’t skip the final sear at high heat—this textural contrast makes all the difference!
Serving Suggestions: Pair your Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly with a side of pickled vegetables for a delightful balance of flavors.
What to Serve with Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly?
A delightful meal experience awaits you, perfectly complementing the rich flavors of your dish with an array of textures and tastes.
- Steamed Rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy texture of steamed rice absorbs the luscious sauce, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.
- Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed bok choy or spinach add a fresh, vibrant crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender pork belly.
- Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled cucumbers or radishes enhances each bite with a refreshing zing—perfect for cutting through the richness.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: The natural sweetness of caramelized carrots and parsnips provides an earthy complement that elevates the overall dish.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: The zesty flavor of cilantro-lime rice adds a fresh twist that brightens the meal while pairing wonderfully with the savory pork belly.
- Spicy Chili Sauce: A drizzle of spicy chili sauce introduces an exciting kick, providing an extra layer of flavor that adventurous eaters will appreciate.
- Chilled Beer: For a refreshing partner, an ice-cold lager complements the richness of the pork while cleansing the palate with each sip.
- Coconut Milk Soup: A gentle, creamy coconut soup can serve as a delicate side, enhancing the flavors with its subtle sweetness and aromatic spices.
- Chocolate Mousse: End the meal on a sweet note with a silky chocolate mousse, offering a luxurious finish against the savory main course.
Storage Tips for Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly
Room Temperature: Allow leftover pork belly to cool completely before storing. It can sit out for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. The Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the pork belly. Place it in a freezer-safe container or vacuum-sealed bag, where it will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to keep it moist, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and give this recipe your personal touch with these tasty twists!
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Sweet Maple: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor profile that brings a hint of sweetness.
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Spicy Kick: Add extra red chili slices or even a dash of sriracha to elevate the heat and complement the richness of the pork.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the last hour of cooking for an aromatic and earthy twist.
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Citrusy Zest: Incorporate the zest and juice of an orange or lime into the sauce to brighten the flavors and add a citrusy zing.
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Apple Cider Vinegar: Swap out half of the water for apple cider vinegar to introduce a tangy depth that balances the sweetness nicely.
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Vegetable Medley: Include chunks of carrots or bell peppers alongside the onions for added sweetness and a pop of color in the dish.
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Coconut Aminos: For a soy-free option, substitute tamari with coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter, yet savory flavor.
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Beer Braised: Add a cup of your favorite beer in place of water for a hearty twist, enhancing the umami while keeping the dish rich and satisfying.
Embrace these variations and make this dish your own, delighting family and friends with every delicious bite!
Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pork belly?
Absolutely! Look for pork belly with a balance of meat and fat—this is key to a flavorful dish. Ideally, the skin should be smooth and free of dark spots, and the meat should be a bright pink color. If possible, buy from a trusted butcher for quality.
How should I store leftover Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly?
Make sure to let your pork belly cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze it! Transfer the cooled pork belly to a freezer-safe container or a vacuum-sealed bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Why is my pork belly not tender enough after cooking?
Very well! If the pork belly doesn’t seem tender after the designated cooking time, don’t worry! Just continue cooking it in 15-minute intervals. Add about 1/4 cup of water as needed to keep it moist. This extra time allows the flavors to infuse and the meat to break down properly.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! This recipe uses tamari as a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. However, keep in mind that pork belly is high in fat and calories, so it might not be the best choice for everyone. Always consult your healthcare provider if you are managing specific dietary restrictions.
Can I use different spices instead of Chinese five-spice?
Absolutely! While Chinese five-spice gives a unique depth, feel free to use alternatives like allspice or a blend of cinnamon, clove, star anise, and ginger for a different yet delightful flavor profile. Experimenting can yield delicious surprises!
Crispy Crockpot Pork Belly: Your New Comfort Food Hero
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Brown the pork belly in batches for 5–8 minutes until golden.
- Sauté chopped garlic, diced onions, and sliced ginger for 2–3 minutes.
- Add brown sugar, tamari, five-spice powder, star anise, and water; stir well.
- Return the pork belly to the pan, ensuring it's submerged; bring to simmer.
- Cook on low heat, covered, for 2 hours.
- Check tenderness; continue cooking in 15-minute intervals if necessary.
- Remove lid, increase heat, and cook for an additional 5–10 minutes to thicken sauce.
- Garnish with sliced chili if desired, and serve warm with rice and greens.