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When the weekend rolls around, my mind often drifts to cozy flavors and comforting dishes that bring the family together. One such dish that has become a staple in my home is the Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly with Cider Gravy. The sound of crackling skin sizzling in the oven is like music to my ears, instantly transforming my kitchen into a haven of mouthwatering aromas.

What makes this pork belly so extraordinary is its tender, juicy meat paired with that irresistibly crispy crackling, all topped off with a silky cider gravy that elevates the entire dish. It’s a showstopper for Sunday lunches, effortlessly impressing guests while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this recipe promises to deliver flavors that resonate deep within your soul. Gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on this culinary adventure that will leave everyone at the table coming back for seconds!

Why is this Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly Recipe a must-try?

Unmatched Flavor: The juicy pork belly is enhanced with a silky cider gravy that adds a touch of sweetness, making every bite delicious.
Effortless Elegance: You’ll wow your guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet without spending all day in the kitchen.
Perfectly Crispy: Achieving that ideal crackling skin is simpler than you think—just a few tips and you’re set!
Family Favorite: This recipe easily becomes a beloved staple in your home, ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions.
Versatile Pairings: Complement your roast with sides like roasted potatoes or braised red cabbage for a complete meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly with Cider Gravy is the recipe that will impress and satisfy!

Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly Ingredients

For the Pork

Bone-in Pork Belly – The main ingredient; choose a fresh cut with skin for perfect crackling.
Coarse Sea Salt – Generously season the skin to achieve that crispy texture.
Ground Black Pepper – Freshly ground enhances the flavor profile of the pork.

For the Gravy

Large Onion – A thickly sliced onion base will add sweetness and depth to the gravy.
Cider (330ml/1⅓ Cup) – Dry hard cider not only deglazes but also brings acidity to balance the richness.
Chicken Stock (250ml/1 Cup) – Opt for homemade stock to elevate the flavor of the gravy.
Butter (50g/3 tbsp + 1 tsp) – Cold butter adds a glossy finish and richness to the sauce.
Salt – Adjust to taste when the sauce is complete for optimal seasoning.

Crafted with love, these ingredients will lead you to a delightful dish with a stunning crispy slow roast pork belly experience.

How to Make Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly

Prep the Pork: The night before you plan to roast, score the pork belly skin, being careful not to cut into the flesh. Generously rub with salt, then leave uncovered in the fridge overnight to dry out the skin.
Preheat Oven: About 15-20 minutes before roasting, crank your oven up to its highest setting at approximately 250°C (480°F). This initial blast of heat helps achieve that coveted crackling.
Prepare Onion Base: Slice the onion into 1-1.5 cm (½”) thick rings. Arrange them in a roasting tin, ensuring even coverage to create a flavorful base for the pork.
Season Pork: Generously rub the scored skin with more salt and ground black pepper. Place the pork belly on top of the onion rings to infuse flavor as it cooks.
Initial Roasting: Pop the pork belly in the oven for 20-30 minutes until the skin blisters and starts to bubble. This step is crucial for that crispy finish!
Lower Heat & Continue Cooking: After the initial roasting, reduce the temperature to 150°C (300°F) and let it slow cook for an additional 2-2½ hours, until the meat is tender and succulent.
Rest Pork: Once cooked, remove the pork from the oven and allow it to rest for 20-30 minutes. This step lets the juices redistribute for a moist, flavorful slice.
Prepare Gravy: In the roasting pan, carefully remove excess fat, then set it over high heat on the stovetop. This will be the base of your rich and delightful cider gravy.
Deglaze with Cider: Pour in the cider while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it reduce by half, intensifying those delicious flavors.
Add Stock: Stir in chicken stock and keep reducing until the gravy thickens by about a third, enriching the taste further.
Blend Gravy: Transfer the mixture to a blender, blending until smooth. Pass the gravy through a fine sieve into a saucepan to ensure a velvety texture.
Finish Gravy: Bring the gravy to a boil, then whisk in cold butter, adjusting the seasoning to taste. This will give your gravy a glossy finish and elevate the overall dish!

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly

Dry the Skin: Ensure the pork belly skin is completely dry by leaving it uncovered in the fridge overnight; this step is vital for achieving that crispy crackling.
Score Properly: Score the skin in a crisscross pattern without cutting into the meat. This allows the fat to render out while roasting, resulting in perfect texture.
Temperature Control: Avoid opening the oven door during cooking, even if you’re tempted. Maintaining heat helps achieve consistent and evenly cooked pork belly.
Resting Time: Let the cooked pork belly rest before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender.
Gravy Smoothness: For a silky cider gravy, blend the mixture well and strain through a fine sieve before serving for the best texture.

Incorporating these tips will elevate your Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly Recipe with Cider Gravy to perfection!

Storage Tips for Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly

Fridge: Store leftover crispy slow roast pork belly in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Always ensure it’s cooled before sealing to preserve freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Labeling with the date will keep track of its freshness.

Reheating: To maintain crispy skin, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures the crackling stays deliciously crunchy while the meat warms through.

Gravy Storage: The silky cider gravy can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, whisking to restore consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly with Cider Gravy components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can score and season the pork belly up to 24 hours in advance, wrapping it tightly after salting to keep the skin dry for optimal crackling. Additionally, the cider gravy can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days—just reheat on the stovetop while whisking in cold butter before serving to restore its creamy texture. When you’re ready to cook, simply roast the pork as instructed, allowing your weekend meal to come together with minimal effort, resulting in flavors that are just as delicious as if made fresh!

Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly Variations

Feel free to play with this recipe to make it your own, adding delightful twists that suit your taste and occasion!

Cider Swap: Use white wine or apple juice instead of cider for a different flavor profile; both add sweetness and acidity.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the onion base for a fragrant twist; it’s warming and aromatic.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate chili flakes or fresh chili into the seasoning for a spicy layer of flavor; it brings an exciting heat to each bite.
Pineapple Glaze: Brush the pork belly with a mix of pineapple juice and brown sugar in the last hour for a sweet and tangy glaze; it creates a beautiful caramelized crust.
Apple & Onion Mix: Replace some onion with sliced apples; the sweetness of the apples will complement the pork beautifully and enhance the gravy’s richness.
Smoky Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning; it gives the pork an inviting smoky depth that’s simply irresistible.
Gluten-Free: Swap the chicken stock for a gluten-free alternative; you can make your own or look for high-quality brands available.
Vegan Gravy: Consider using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock, and omit butter for a dairy-free option; this is a fantastic way to make your dish inclusive for all guests.

Experimenting with these variations will allow you to create a personalized crispy slow roast pork belly experience that will delight your family and friends!

What to Serve with Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly with Cider Gravy?

Imagine the perfect Sunday lunch spread, where the flavors of your slow-roasted pork belly come alive alongside delightful accompaniments.

Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a lovely contrast in texture, absorbing the rich cider gravy beautifully.
Braised Red Cabbage: This sweet and tangy side adds vibrant color while balancing the richness of the pork belly. Its tender bites complement each serving.
Glazed Carrots: Tender, caramelized carrots drizzled with honey are the perfect sweet treat, enhancing the savory notes of the dish.
Apple Sauce: A classic pairing, this refreshing side brightens the meal, cutting through the savory flavors and adding a touch of fruity sweetness.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky smooth mashed potatoes serve as a comforting foundation, perfect for soaking up all the delicious gravy.
Light Green Salad: A fresh salad with a citrus dressing provides a refreshing contrast, bringing a breath of freshness to the rich feast.
Sparkling Cider: Pair your meal with a glass of chilled sparkling cider; its effervescence complements the richness of the pork and gravy wonderfully.
Chocolate Cake: End your meal with a slice of rich chocolate cake. The dense sweetness offers a delightful conclusion to this hearty feast.

These pairings will create a delightful harmony, making your Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly with Cider Gravy an unforgettable centerpiece for any gathering.

Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly with Cider Gravy Recipe FAQs

What type of pork belly is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for a bone-in pork belly with the skin intact. A fresh cut ensures the best results, with enough fat to rend down during slow roasting, providing that succulent inner meat and crispy crackling.

How should I store leftovers from this crispy slow roast pork belly?
Leftover pork belly can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain its freshness. For longer storage, you can freeze portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze the cider gravy?
Yes, you can! The silky cider gravy can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop and whisk to restore its lovely, smooth consistency.

What should I do if my pork belly skin doesn’t crisp up?
If the skin isn’t crispy, it’s usually due to moisture or insufficient heat. Ensure the skin is completely dry before cooking, as a wet skin will steam rather than crackle. If you find it’s still soggy, turn your oven to a higher setting and place it under the broiler for a few minutes; just keep a close watch to avoid burning!

Is this recipe safe for people with dietary restrictions, like allergies or gluten sensitivity?
Certainly! The ingredients in this Crispy Slow Roast Pork Belly with Cider Gravy recipe are naturally gluten-free, especially if you choose gluten-free cider and stock. As always, check your labels, particularly for the chicken stock, to be sure it meets dietary needs. However, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider if there are severe allergies involved.