13 Grilled Pork Belly Recipes That Are Pure Umami On A Plate

13 Grilled Pork Belly Recipes That Are Pure Umami On A Plate bring together the irresistible sizzle of the grill with the rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of perfectly cooked pork belly. There’s something truly magical about the way the fat crisps up, the meat caramelizes, and smoky flavors seep into every bite. Whether you’re a backyard BBQ lover or someone seeking bold, restaurant-quality flavor at home, these recipes are crafted to elevate your grilling game. Expect savory marinades, spicy rubs, sticky glazes, and fusion twists that showcase pork belly’s incredible versatility and depth of flavor.

These 13 recipes are your ultimate guide to turning a humble cut of meat into a culinary masterpiece. From Korean BBQ-style pork belly to sticky-sweet honey garlic versions and bold chipotle-infused bites, this list has a flavor profile for every craving. Each recipe is easy to follow and packed with tips to help you achieve that perfect sear and tender interior. Whether you’re cooking for a weekend crowd or treating yourself to a next-level solo dinner, these dishes are guaranteed to satisfy your craving for something smoky, savory, and undeniably delicious.

Five-Spice Braised Pork Belly

Five-Spice Braised Pork Belly is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This recipe combines the savory essence of pork belly with aromatic five-spice powder, creating a savory and slightly sweet profile that’s truly satisfying.

Not only is this recipe packed with umami, but it’s also quite simple to make. With a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons five-spice powder
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice wine or cooking wine
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 cups water
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Brown the Pork: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pork belly cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic, ginger, and five-spice powder, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients: Pour in soy sauce, rice wine, and brown sugar. Stir to combine, then add the water.
4. Braise: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the pork is tender.
5. Serve: Once done, garnish with green onions and cilantro. Enjoy the pork belly with rice or noodles for a hearty meal!

Spicy Korean Pork Belly Skewers

Spicy Korean pork belly skewers pack a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist. With a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, each bite is a delightful explosion of umami goodness. These skewers are simple to whip up and make for an exciting appetizer or main dish at any gathering.

The marinade is the star of the show, blending traditional Korean ingredients like gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, and sesame oil, which infuse the pork belly with rich flavors. Grilling these skewers gives them a beautiful char while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Perfect for a barbecue or a cozy dinner at home!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons gochujang
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water
• Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar until well combined.
2. Marinate the Pork: Add pork belly cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for even more flavor.
3. Skewer the Meat: Thread the marinated pork belly onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the pork is nicely browned and cooked through.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions, and enjoy your spicy Korean pork belly skewers!

Garlic Herb Roasted Pork Belly

This Garlic Herb Roasted Pork Belly is a deliciously rich dish that brings out the best in savory flavors. The combination of garlic and fresh herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

Making this recipe is simple, even for novice cooks. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can impress your family and friends with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork belly, skin scored
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the garlic herb mixture all over the pork belly, making sure it gets into the scored skin.
4. Place the pork belly in a roasting pan and pour the chicken broth around it.
5. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and roast for about 2.5 hours, until tender.
6. Remove the foil, increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C), and roast for an additional 30 minutes to crisp up the skin.
7. Once golden and crispy, remove from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
8. Serve with your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Crispy Maple Glazed Pork Belly

Crispy Maple Glazed Pork Belly is a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavor of pork belly with a sweet, sticky glaze. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy meat inside, making each bite a satisfying experience. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple enough for anyone to whip up at home.

The maple glaze adds a unique twist, balancing the savory notes of the pork with a touch of sweetness. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, making it a go-to for any gathering!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork belly
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Score the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern. This will help the fat render and create a crispy texture.
2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Marinate: Place the pork belly in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring it is evenly coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
5. Roast the Pork: Place the marinated pork belly on a baking sheet, skin side up. Roast for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
6. Broil: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and broil the pork belly for about 10-15 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and caramelized.
7. Serve: Let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with extra maple syrup and garnish with green onions if desired.

Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich

The Pork Belly Banh Mi Sandwich is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. Featuring crispy, savory pork belly paired with fresh vegetables and a touch of spicy sauce, this sandwich is a taste sensation that truly highlights the umami of the pork. It’s a simple recipe that brings the vibrant flavors of Vietnamese cuisine right to your kitchen.

With the perfect balance of richness from the pork, crunch from the pickled vegetables, and brightness from the herbs, this sandwich is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip one up anytime you crave a satisfying meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 baguette
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 large carrot, julienned
• 1 daikon radish, julienned
• Fresh cilantro
• Chili sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Add the pork belly, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best results.
2. Cook the Pork: Preheat the grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the pork belly for about 5-7 minutes on each side until nicely browned and crispy. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the pork is cooking, soak the julienned carrot and daikon in a mixture of vinegar and water for about 30 minutes. This will enhance their crunch and flavor.
4. Assemble the Sandwich: Slice the baguette in half and layer the bottom with sliced pork belly. Top with cucumber, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of chili sauce if desired.
5. Serve: Close the sandwich, slice in half, and enjoy your homemade Pork Belly Banh Mi!

Charred Pork Belly Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

Charred Pork Belly Tacos are a delightful combination of rich, savory pork belly and fresh, zesty pineapple salsa. The crispy edges of the pork belly provide a satisfying bite, while the sweet and tangy salsa adds a refreshing contrast. This recipe is simple to whip up, making it perfect for a casual dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

The tacos are a great way to enjoy the deep flavors of pork belly without too much fuss. Once you’ve grilled the pork to perfection and topped it with the vibrant salsa, you’ll be ready to savor every bite. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork belly, cut into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small corn tortillas
• 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the pork belly strips with this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the Pork: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated pork belly for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until crispy and cooked through.
3. Make the Salsa: While the pork is cooking, combine diced pineapple, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
4. Prepare the Tacos: Warm the corn tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side. Fill each tortilla with grilled pork belly and top with the pineapple salsa.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tacos hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious charred pork belly tacos!

Szechuan Peppercorn Pork Belly Stir-Fry

This Szechuan Peppercorn Pork Belly Stir-Fry is a delightful dish that packs a punch of flavor. The pork belly becomes beautifully tender while the Szechuan peppercorns add a unique, numbing heat that perfectly balances the richness of the meat. It’s a simple recipe that brings the vibrant taste of Szechuan cuisine right to your kitchen.

What makes this stir-fry special is the combination of sweet and spicy elements. The pork belly is stir-fried with colorful bell peppers and a glossy sauce that coats each piece beautifully. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, this dish is easy to whip up and sure to impress anyone at your dining table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, cut into wedges
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Szechuan peppercorns and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the pork belly pieces to the skillet and cook until browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and onion, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still crisp.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to combine and let the sauce thicken for a couple of minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Smoked Pork Belly with Applewood Chips

This smoked pork belly recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the rich flavors of pork combined with a sweet, smoky undertone. Using applewood chips adds a subtle sweetness that complements the savory meat, making each bite a burst of flavor. Plus, the process is straightforward, making it a great dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

The key to perfectly smoked pork belly is patience. Slow smoking allows the fat to render down, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth goodness. Serve it sliced as a main dish or chop it up for tacos or sandwiches; either way, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork belly
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 cup applewood chips, soaked in water for 30 minutes
• Optional: your favorite barbecue sauce for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Score the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern. This will help the fat render while cooking.
2. Season: Rub the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika all over the pork belly, ensuring it gets into the scored areas.
3. Preheat the Smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add the soaked applewood chips to the smoker box.
4. Smoke the Pork Belly: Place the pork belly in the smoker, skin side up, and smoke for about 4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
5. Rest the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork belly and let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve: Slice the pork belly and drizzle with barbecue sauce if desired. Enjoy your smoky, savory treat!

Teriyaki Glazed Pork Belly Rice Bowl

This Teriyaki Glazed Pork Belly Rice Bowl is a delightful combination of tender, flavorful pork belly served over a bed of fluffy rice, topped with fresh vegetables. The sweet and savory teriyaki glaze brings everything together, creating a tasty dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s relatively simple to make and perfect for any weeknight dinner.

The rich umami flavor of the pork belly pairs beautifully with the vibrant veggies, making each bite a burst of flavor. Serve it up with some sesame seeds and cilantro to add a fresh touch. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this delicious bowl!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly, sliced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, mirin, brown sugar, and grated ginger. Marinate the pork belly slices in this mixture for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Pork: Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium heat. Remove pork from the marinade, reserving the marinade. Grill or pan-fry the pork belly until crispy and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Glaze the Pork: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly. Add the cooked pork back into the skillet and coat it with the glaze.
4. Assemble the Bowl: Place the cooked rice in bowls, top with the glazed pork belly, and arrange your mixed vegetables around it.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top and add cilantro for garnish. Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Glazed Pork Belly Rice Bowl!

Cuban Pork Belly with Citrus Marinade

This Cuban pork belly recipe brings a delightful punch of flavor with its citrus marinade. The combination of tangy lime, zesty orange, and aromatic garlic works perfectly to complement the rich, savory notes of the pork. Simple to prepare, this dish is ideal for both a casual dinner and special occasions.

The marinade infuses the pork with an irresistible umami taste, making each bite a burst of flavor. Grilling adds a smoky depth that elevates the dish even further. Serve with your favorite sides, and you’re in for a real treat!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork belly
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, orange juice, orange zest, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Pork: Place the pork belly in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade and pat dry. Brush with olive oil and place on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the pork is crispy and cooked through.
5. Rest and Slice: Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh vegetables or a light salad.

Pork Belly and Kimchi Fried Rice

Pork belly and kimchi fried rice is a delightful dish that perfectly balances savory and tangy flavors. The rich, succulent pork belly pairs beautifully with the spicy, fermented kick of kimchi, making every bite a burst of umami. Not only is it satisfying and hearty, but it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

This dish is all about the harmony between the ingredients. The crispy pork belly adds texture, while the kimchi infuses a unique depth of flavor that elevates the dish. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of fried rice that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
• 1 cup kimchi, chopped
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 2 eggs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pork Belly: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pork belly until crispy and browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Kimchi: In the same skillet, add the chopped kimchi and sauté for a few minutes until heated through. Add the cooked rice and mix well.
3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Return the crispy pork belly to the skillet and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Fry the Eggs: In a separate pan, fry the eggs sunny-side up.
5. Serve: Divide the kimchi fried rice into bowls, top with the fried eggs, and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Enjoy!

Pork Belly with Thai Chili Sauce

This grilled pork belly recipe is packed with bold flavors and a perfect balance of sweet and spicy. The crispy exterior of the pork contrasts beautifully with the tender meat inside, making every bite a delight. The addition of Thai chili sauce adds a zesty kick that elevates the dish, creating an irresistible taste sensation.

Making this dish is straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of time in the kitchen. It’s perfect for a casual dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. Serve it with a side of rice or fresh veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1-2 tablespoons Thai chili sauce (adjust to taste)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, fish sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add the pork belly pieces and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the Pork: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated pork belly for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the grilled pork with Thai chili sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Serve: Plate the pork belly, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Grilled Pork Belly with Hoisin Sauce

Grilled pork belly with hoisin sauce is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and tender textures. The sweet and savory notes of hoisin sauce perfectly complement the succulent, juicy pork belly, making every bite a burst of deliciousness. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for a casual meal or a special gathering.

The caramelized crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the inside remains tender and melt-in-your-mouth good. Serve it with steamed buns and pickles for an authentic touch. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork belly
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Steamed buns for serving
• Pickles for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Marinate the Pork: Cut the pork belly into strips and place it in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Pork: Remove the pork from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes until nicely charred and cooked through.
5. Serve: Slice the grilled pork belly and serve it in steamed buns, garnished with pickles.

Final thoughts

Grilled pork belly isn’t just food—it’s an experience of texture, taste, and pure umami indulgence. With these 13 bold and flavorful recipes, you’ve got all you need to impress guests, expand your grilling repertoire, or simply treat yourself to something special. So fire up the grill, follow your taste buds, and discover why pork belly is a must-have on any serious flavor lover’s plate.