Crispy Pork Belly Bites with a Twist

Crispy pork belly bites have taken the culinary world by storm, and it's no wonder why. With their irresistibly crunchy exterior and succulent, tender meat, they are a true crowd-pleaser. When paired with a zesty mango salsa, these bites offer a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, making them the perfect appetizer or main dish for any occasion.

Crispy Pork Belly Bites with a Twist

Indulge in the comforting crunch of crispy pork belly bites paired with zesty mango salsa, perfect for your fall gatherings or cozy night in. This easy weeknight dinner brings a brilliant balance of rich flavors and fresh brightness that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its irresistible combination of textures, this dish is both festive and craveable. Try it tonight and make it the star of your next meal!

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Ingredients

For the Crispy Pork Belly:

1 lb pork belly, skin-on

2 tsp sea salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tbsp olive oil

For the Mango Salsa:

1 ripe mango, diced

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 jalapeño, seeds removed and finely minced

Juice of 1 lime

Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped

Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving:

Sliced limes

Extra cilantro sprigs for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Pork Belly:

- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

- Rinse the pork belly under cold water and thoroughly pat it dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the skin in a crosshatch pattern, ensuring not to cut into the meat itself.

- In a small mixing bowl, combine the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Generously massage the spice blend into the pork belly, making sure to rub it into the scored skin for added flavor.

Roast the Pork Belly:

- Arrange the pork belly on a baking rack set over a lined baking sheet. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the skin, allowing it to coat evenly.

- Place the pork belly in the preheated oven and roast for 30 minutes. After the initial 30 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue roasting for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is beautifully crispy and the meat is tender.

Make the Mango Salsa:

- While the pork belly is roasting, prepare the mango salsa. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced mango, finely chopped red onion, minced jalapeño, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently stir to combine and allow the salsa to rest for a few minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

Finish the Pork Belly:

- Once the pork belly has achieved a crispy, golden-brown exterior and the meat is tender, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. After resting, cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces for easier serving.

Serve:

- Arrange the crispy pork belly bites attractively on a serving platter. Drizzle any remaining juices from the baking sheet over the top for extra flavor. Generously spoon the zesty mango salsa on top of the pork belly bites. Garnish the dish with lime slices and additional sprigs of fresh cilantro for a pop of color and aroma.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings: 4 servings