When the weather warms up and the grill beckons, I can’t help but crave something extraordinary—like smoked pork belly pinwheels with maple bourbon glaze. The very thought of sweet, smoky flavors dancing together fills my heart with joy. This culinary delight began with me experimenting in my backyard, searching for that perfect bite to share with family and friends on lazy Sunday afternoons.
Imagine slicing through the tender, juicy layers of pork belly, each pinwheel glistening with a glossy glaze that combines the warmth of maple syrup and the rich depth of bourbon. It’s an impressive main dish that’s surprisingly easy to whip up. After just a few hours in the smoker, your taste buds will be treated to a symphony of flavors, making fast food seem like a distant memory.
So grab your skewers, let’s roll up our sleeves, and create an unforgettable meal that’s bound to impress both your palate and your guests!
Why choose smoked pork belly pinwheels with maple bourbon glaze?
Irresistible flavor: The marriage of maple and bourbon creates a heavenly glaze that elevates the rich taste of pork belly.
Easy preparation: Simple steps and minimal ingredients make this dish approachable, even for beginner cooks.
Impressive presentation: Each pinwheel is visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering.
Versatile dish: Serve these pinwheels as an appetizer, main course, or even at your backyard barbecue—flexibility is key!
Time-saving smoking: With just a few hours in the smoker, you’ll have an exceptional meal ready without the hassle of constant monitoring.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a delicious, hearty bite, making this dish ideal for parties or family dinners. Don’t forget to check out my tips on how to get the perfect glaze for your smoked meats!
Essential Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels with Maple Bourbon Glaze Ingredients
For the Pork Belly
• Pork belly – 2-3 pounds of this cut ensures a rich and flavorful base for your pinwheels.
• BBQ seasoning – 2 tablespoons to enhance the smoky flavor and add depth to the meat.
For the Glaze
• Orange juice – ½ cup provides a zesty brightness that balances the sweetness.
• Maple syrup – ¼ cup adds that lovely touch of sweetness, enhancing the overall glaze.
• Bourbon – ¼ cup brings a warm, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the pork.
• Brown sugar – ¼ cup helps create a thick, caramelized coating on the pinwheels.
With these simple yet essential ingredients for your smoked pork belly pinwheels with maple bourbon glaze, you’re just a step away from a culinary masterpiece that will delight your family and friends!
How to Make Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels with Maple Bourbon Glaze
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Soak skewers: Begin by soaking your wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning while your delicious pinwheels are smoking.
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Slice and roll: Cut your pork belly into 1-inch thick slices and roll each slice into a pinwheel. The layers should be tight to hold that scrumptious filling inside.
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Skewer pinwheels: Carefully skewer each pork belly pinwheel so that it resembles a lollipop, with the skewer going through the bottom and out the top, securing the roll.
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Smoke the pinwheels: Place the skewered pinwheels in your smoker at 250°F for about 3 hours. You’re looking for them to reach an internal temperature of 175°F to ensure they are tender and juicy.
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Prepare the glaze: In a small pot on medium heat, combine orange juice, maple syrup, bourbon, and brown sugar. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes until it thickens up nicely.
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Glaze the pinwheels: As your pinwheels smoke, brush them with the delicious glaze, flipping to coat both sides. Continue applying the glaze in the last hour of cooking for that flavorful finish.
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Finish and serve: Once your pork belly pinwheels reach an internal temperature of 200°F, remove them from the smoker. Brush with glaze one last time, and they’re ready to serve!
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels with Maple Bourbon Glaze?
To create a delightful feast around your smoked pork belly pinwheels, consider complementing the rich, savory flavors with vibrant and tasty sides.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of fresh coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the luscious pork, balancing out the meal beautifully.
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Cornbread Muffins: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread muffins soak up the delicious glaze and enhance the rural charm of your barbecue.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies add earthy flavors, creating a medley that pairs perfectly with the smoky meat.
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Grilled Asparagus: The bright, crisp taste of grilled asparagus offers a lovely textural contrast, turning your meal into a gourmet experience.
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Potato Salad: A classic creamy potato salad rounds out the meal, with its comforting flavors harmonizing with the rich pinwheels.
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Sweet Tea Lemonade: This refreshing drink combo brings a delightful sweetness that complements the glaze and cleanses the palate.
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Chocolate Brownies: End your feast on a sweet note—fudgy brownies are a comforting treat that everyone will love after those savory bites.
How to Store and Freeze Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels
Fridge: Store leftover smoked pork belly pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Wrap each pinwheel tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months, ensuring the rich flavors are preserved.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm them in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain the delicious texture of your smoked pork belly pinwheels with maple bourbon glaze.
Room Temperature: If serving at gatherings, keep pinwheels at room temperature for no more than 2 hours to maintain quality and safety.
Make Ahead Options
These smoked pork belly pinwheels with maple bourbon glaze are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can slice and roll the pork belly pinwheels up to 24 hours in advance, tightly wrapping them in plastic wrap to keep them fresh. The glaze can also be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just reheat it on the stove before brushing it on the pinwheels. When you’re ready to serve, simply skewer the marinated pinwheels and smoke them as mentioned in the directions, ensuring a delicious meal with minimal effort and time on busy weeknights!
Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels with Maple Bourbon Glaze Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists and substitutions to make this dish your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the BBQ seasoning for a smoky heat that will excite your taste buds.
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Fruit-Infused Glaze: Substitute half of the orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical flair that brightens up the glaze.
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Vegan Option: Replace pork belly with marinated eggplant slices for a plant-based version that still delivers rich, smoky flavors.
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Maple Alternatives: Swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar to create a different kind of sweetness while retaining the glaze’s character.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme in the glaze for a fragrant, savory touch that complements the pork beautifully.
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Crispy Texture: For an added crunch, sprinkle some crushed pork rinds over the pinwheels during the final glaze application and let them caramelize.
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Ancho Chile Powder: Replace the BBQ seasoning with smoked ancho chile powder for a unique flavor profile that brings in a delightful smokiness.
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Fruit Glaze Twist: Incorporate a tablespoon of finely chopped jalapeños in the glaze for a spicy and sweet combination that packs a punch.
Each of these variations allows you to tailor your smoked pork belly pinwheels to your personal taste while maintaining that mouthwatering appeal—so get creative and enjoy!
Expert Tips for Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels
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Use Quality Pork: Choose high-quality pork belly with a good balance of fat and meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
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Cut Evenly: Ensure your pork belly slices are uniform at 1-inch thick to promote even cooking and consistent results.
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Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 200°F to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Don’t Rush Glazing: Brush the glaze on during the last hour of smoking, allowing it to caramelize beautifully without burning.
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Rest Before Serving: Let the smoked pork belly pinwheels rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, enhancing flavor.
Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels with Maple Bourbon Glaze Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pork belly?
When selecting pork belly, aim for pieces that have a good balance of meat and fat. Look for a fresh cut with a nice pink color and minimal dark spots, as these can indicate aging. The more marbling you see, the juicier and more flavorful your pinwheels will be!
How should I store leftovers of smoked pork belly pinwheels?
Absolutely! Store any leftover smoked pork belly pinwheels in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, allow them to cool completely before sealing. Reheating them in the oven rather than the microwave helps keep them tender.
Can I freeze smoked pork belly pinwheels? What is the best method?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap each smoked pinwheel tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them into a freezer-safe bag. This prevents freezer burn and preserves the rich flavors. They can last up to 3 months! To thaw, simply place them in the fridge overnight.
What internal temperature should I aim for when smoking the pinwheels?
The target internal temperature for perfect smoked pork belly pinwheels is 200°F. This ensures they are fall-apart tender and juicy. Use a reliable meat thermometer to keep an eye on it, and feel free to check halfway through for accuracy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this recipe?
Yes! While delicious, pork belly is high in fat and should be consumed in moderation, especially for those watching cholesterol levels. If you’re accommodating guests with dietary restrictions, consider using a leaner cut of pork or even turkey bacon as an alternative. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
How long can I keep the glaze in the fridge?
You can refrigerate leftover glaze in an airtight container for about 1 week. When ready to use it again, warm it up gently on the stovetop before brushing it on your smoked pork belly pinwheels, enhancing that beautiful glaze.
Delicious Smoked Pork Belly Pinwheels with Maple Bourbon Glaze
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cut pork belly into 1-inch thick slices and roll each into a pinwheel.
- Skewer each pinwheel to secure its shape.
- Smoke the pinwheels at 250°F for about 3 hours until reaching 175°F internal temperature.
- Combine orange juice, maple syrup, bourbon, and brown sugar in a pot, boil, then simmer for 30 minutes until thick.
- Brush the pinwheels with glaze during the last hour of smoking.
- Remove once internal temperature reaches 200°F and serve after brushing with glaze.