What exactly is pork belly, and why is it special for this recipe?

Pork belly is a fatty cut from the pig's underside. It's tender and great at soaking up flavors. This makes it perfect for our Sticky Maple Garlic Pork Belly Slabs. The fat content leads to amazing caramelization and a soft texture.

How long does it take to prepare and cook these Sticky Maple Garlic Pork Belly Slabs?

It takes about 3 to 4 hours to prepare and cook. You'll spend 30 minutes getting ready, 2-2.5 hours cooking it slow, and 30 minutes for the glaze. Slow cooking is key for that tender texture.

Can I make this recipe if I don't have maple syrup?

You can use honey or brown sugar if you don't have maple syrup. But, it won't taste exactly the same. Pure maple syrup is best for the authentic flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep or make-ahead cooking?

Yes, it's great for meal prep. You can prep the pork belly up to 3 days in advance. Just reheat and crisp the skin in the oven. The flavors get even better after a day or two.

What are the best side dishes to serve with these pork belly slabs?

Pair them with Asian sides like steamed jasmine rice or pickled veggies. A cucumber salad or roasted root veggies also work well. They balance the rich flavors of the pork belly.

How do I ensure the pork skin gets crispy?

Dry the skin well before cooking and use high heat. Pat it dry, score it lightly, and cook at high temperature. This will give you crispy skin.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer or slow cooker?

You can adapt it for an air fryer or slow cooker. An air fryer makes the skin crispy, while a slow cooker makes the meat tender. Finish with high heat to crisp the skin.

Are there any modifications for people with dietary restrictions?

Yes, you can make substitutions. Use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt, and sugar-free maple syrup for those avoiding sugar. But, the flavors might change a bit.

Sticky Maple Garlic Pork Belly Slabs Recipe - 7 Steps to Crispy Perfection

Name: Sticky Maple Garlic Pork Belly Slabs Recipe - Ultimate Guide
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 2-3 pounds premium pork belly; 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 4-5 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; Sea salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional); 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional); 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional); 1 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional)

Description

This glazed pork belly recipe turns an amazing cut of meat into a culinary masterpiece with perfect sticky maple garlic flavors. The magic is in achieving crispy exterior and tender interior that makes every bite pure bliss.

Ingredients

Scale

2–3 pounds premium pork belly

1/2 cup pure maple syrup

4–5 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon brown sugar

Sea salt and black pepper to taste

1 tablespoon ginger, minced (optional)

1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

1 tablespoon rice vinegar (optional)

1 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels and score the skin in a diamond pattern

2. Create marinade by combining soy sauce, brown sugar, rice wine, and half the minced garlic

3. Marinate the pork belly for 2-3 hours or overnight in refrigerator for maximum flavor

4. Preheat oven to 275°F for slow roasting or grill to 350°F for indirect heat cooking

5. Place pork belly in roasting pan and cook for 2-2.5 hours until internal temperature reaches 195°F

6. Mix maple syrup with remaining garlic to create the glaze

7. Brush maple glaze onto pork belly multiple times during last 30 minutes of cooking

8. Increase heat to 425°F for final 10-15 minutes to achieve crispy skin perfection

9. Rest meat for 10 minutes before slicing and serving

Notes

For best results, ensure pork skin is completely dry before cooking for maximum crispiness.

Leftover pork belly can be stored in refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated in oven.

This recipe works excellently for meal prep – flavors improve after resting overnight.

Pair with jasmine rice, pickled vegetables, or roasted Brussels sprouts for complete meal.

Prep Time: 30
Cook Time: 180
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1
Calories: 485
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 95mg