Crispy Pork Belly with Cider Jus Recipe
When it comes to cooking pork belly, achieving that perfect balance of succulent meat and crispy crackling can be a real challenge. However, with the right technique and a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will impress even the most discerning of palates. In this recipe, we will show you how to prepare a mouthwatering pork belly with a delectably crispy crackling and a tangy cider jus that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1.5kg pork belly, skin on
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 onions, chopped
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped
– 500ml cider
– 500ml chicken or vegetable stock
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tbsp plain flour
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Belly
1. Preheat the oven to 220°C (200°C fan).
2. Score the pork belly skin with a sharp knife, ensuring the cuts are close together but not too deep to avoid piercing the meat.
3. Rub the olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper all over the pork belly, ensuring the seasoning covers the entire surface.
4. Place the pork belly on a wire rack in a roasting tray, skin-side up.
5. Roast the pork belly in the preheated oven for 30 minutes to allow the skin to start crisping up.
Step 2: Cooking the Pork Belly
1. After the initial 30 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (160°C fan) and continue roasting the pork belly for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and the skin is golden and crispy.
2. Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Making the Cider Jus
1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and apples and cook until softened and slightly caramelized.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and apple mixture, stirring constantly for a minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in the cider and stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Season the cider jus with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serving
1. Slice the pork belly into thick portions, ensuring each slice has a generous serving of crispy crackling.
2. Serve the pork belly on a bed of creamy mash or buttered cabbage, drizzling the tangy cider jus over the top.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of colour and added freshness.
There you have it – a mouthwatering and sophisticated dish of crispy pork belly with a delightful cider jus. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting meal at home. The combination of tender meat, crunchy crackling, and tangy jus is sure to impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking for a culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.