The image above shows thick slices of pork belly in a pan, with beer being poured over them. This method of cooking, called beer-braising, infuses the pork belly with the deep, rich flavors of the beer while making the meat incredibly tender. Beer-braising pork belly is a great way to balance the fattiness of the meat with the bitterness and complexity of the beer, resulting in a perfectly flavorful dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Tender and Juicy: The braising process ensures that the pork belly is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
2. Flavorful: The beer adds complexity to the dish, with the maltiness and slight bitterness cutting through the richness of the pork.
3. Simple Ingredients: Using just a few ingredients, this dish packs a ton of flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients:

For 4 servings, you’ll need:

• 600g (1.3 lbs) pork belly, cut into thick slices (as shown in the image)
• 1 cup of beer (a light lager or pale ale works well)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Belly

Start by seasoning the pork belly slices with salt and pepper on both sides. Let them sit for a few minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

2. Sear the Pork Belly

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork belly slices and sear them on both sides for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove the pork from the pan and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the smashed garlic cloves and sliced onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.

4. Braise with Beer

Return the pork belly slices to the pan, nestling them among the onions and garlic. Pour 1 cup of beer over the pork, making sure the liquid covers about halfway up the meat. Add the soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and the bay leaf if using.

5. Simmer and Cook

Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let the pork braise for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, turning the pork belly halfway through cooking. The pork should become tender and the liquid should reduce into a rich sauce.

6. Serve

Once the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the bay leaf (if used) and transfer the pork to a serving dish. Spoon the sauce over the pork and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Serve the beer-braised pork belly with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Cook’s Notes:

• Beer Choice: A lighter beer like a lager or pale ale works best for this dish, as it adds a subtle bitterness without overpowering the pork. For a richer flavor, you can try using a stout or dark ale.
• Sweetness Balance: Adding a bit of honey or brown sugar balances the bitterness of the beer and enhances the caramelization of the pork. Adjust to your taste.
• Crispy Finish: If you want an extra crispy finish, transfer the braised pork belly to a hot skillet or grill for a quick sear after braising.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe?
A: Yes! You can use pork shoulder or pork ribs as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time as these cuts may take longer to become tender.

Q: What sides go well with beer-braised pork belly?
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed rice, or even a simple green salad. The richness of the pork belly is balanced by light and fresh sides.

Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can make this pork belly a day ahead and reheat it in the sauce. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

Final Thoughts

This Beer-Braised Pork Belly is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. The beer adds a wonderful depth of flavor, and the slow braising ensures the pork is tender and juicy. Whether served with simple sides or part of a more elaborate meal, this dish is sure to impress!