Candied Apple Pork Belly

[Meta description: Looking for a mouthwatering and sweet savory dish? Try this irresistible candied apple pork belly recipe that will leave you wanting more.]

Introduction

Pork belly is a versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in various ways, including roasting, grilling, or braising. However, one unique and delicious way to prepare pork belly is by candying it with apples. The combination of savory pork belly and the natural sweetness of apples creates a delightful balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. In this article, we will explore the process of making candied apple pork belly, step by step.

Ingredients

To make the candied apple pork belly, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1.5 pounds pork belly, skin on
• 2 cups apple cider
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 apples (preferably Granny Smith), peeled and sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own candied apple pork belly:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Place the pork belly, skin side down, in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
5. Flip the pork belly and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to sear the other side.
6. Remove the pork belly from the skillet and set it aside.
7. In the same skillet, add the apple cider, brown sugar, honey, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
8. Add the sliced apples to the skillet, allowing them to cook in the mixture for a few minutes until slightly softened.
9. Return the pork belly, skin side up, to the skillet, nestling it among the apples.
10. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and cook for about 2 hours, or until the pork belly is tender and the flavors have melded together.
11. Every 15-20 minutes, baste the pork belly with the caramelized apple mixture to ensure it stays moist and flavorful.
12. Once the pork belly is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
13. Serve the candied apple pork belly slices with the caramelized apples and some of the delicious pan juices.

Tips and Variations

• For an extra burst of flavor, consider marinating the pork belly in a mixture of apple cider, soy sauce, and your choice of herbs and spices before cooking.
• If you prefer a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the apple mixture.
• Serve the candied apple pork belly with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Candied apple pork belly is a delightful dish that combines the succulent flavors of pork belly with the natural sweetness of apples. The slow cooking process, coupled with the caramelization of the apples, creates a tender and flavorful dish that will please both the sweet and savory lovers. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or simply craving a mouthwatering meal, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients and indulge in the blissful marriage of candied apples and pork belly for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

candied apple pork belly

Fox Heights pub and grill shop