What makes Whiskey Brown Sugar BBQ Pork Belly so special?

This recipe combines tender pork belly with a sweet and savory glaze. The glaze is made from caramelized bourbon and brown sugar. It's a gourmet dish that's both sweet and savory.

How long should I marinate the pork belly?

Marinate the pork belly for 4-8 hours or overnight. This lets the flavors soak deep into the meat. It makes the BBQ unforgettable.

Can I use a different type of alcohol in the marinade?

You can try whiskey or rum instead of bourbon. Each adds a unique flavor. Just make sure it's as deep and complex as bourbon.

What's the best cooking method for this pork belly recipe?

Slow smoking is the best way to get tender meat and a caramelized exterior. If you don't have a smoker, a low-temperature oven or grill works too.

How do I know when the pork belly is perfectly cooked?

Check for an internal temperature of 195-203°F (90-95°C). It should be tender and the exterior should be caramelized. The inside should be juicy.

What are the best side dishes to serve with Whiskey Brown Sugar BBQ Pork Belly?

Try creamy coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or mac and cheese. They balance the rich flavors of the pork belly.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the pork belly up to 24 hours in advance. Even partially cook it. Reheat gently to keep it moist and flavorful.

Is this recipe suitable for different dietary restrictions?

This recipe is not for vegetarians or vegans. If you have dietary restrictions, you might need to change the recipe a lot.

Whiskey Brown Sugar BBQ Pork Belly: 7 Amazing Steps

Description

Gourmet Whiskey Brown Sugar BBQ Pork Belly featuring tender pork belly with rich bourbon glaze and caramelized brown sugar exterior. Perfect for weekend barbecue gatherings with sophisticated flavor complexity.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs pork belly, skin-on, thick-cut

1/2 cup bourbon whiskey

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 tablespoons soy sauce

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

BBQ sauce for serving

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Instructions

1. Choose high-quality pork belly with even fat marbling and trim excess fat

2. Cut pork belly into uniform 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking

3. Combine bourbon, brown sugar, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, and spices for marinade

4. Marinate pork belly cubes for 8-12 hours, flipping occasionally

5. Preheat smoker or grill to 275°F with steady temperature control

6. Smoke pork belly for 2.5-3 hours until internal temperature reaches 200°F

7. Check for tenderness with probe and caramelized exterior

8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving with BBQ sauce

Notes

For best results, use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature

Marinating overnight enhances flavor penetration significantly

Smoking method preferred over grilling for tender results

Can substitute whiskey or rum for bourbon with different flavor profiles

Prep Time: PT12H
Cook Time: PT3H
Category: Main Course
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: Southern BBQ

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 oz
Calories: 420
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 24g
Cholesterol: 85mg