When it comes to comfort food, few things can rival the tender, unctuous goodness of pork belly. And when that pork belly is infused with the bold flavors and techniques of Japan, you have a culinary match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 mouthwatering Japanese pork belly recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From classic braises to modern twists, these recipes showcase the best of Japanese cuisine’s ability to elevate humble ingredients into something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration, this collection has something for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of pork belly in Japan, exploring everything from popular dishes like ramen and teriyaki to lesser-known treats like bao buns and gyoza. So grab your apron, sharpen your knives, and get ready to dig in!
Braised Japanese Pork Belly with Soy and Ginger
This classic Japanese dish, known as “Kakuni,” is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in. The slow-cooked pork belly becomes tender and rich, infused with the savory flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and sugar.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high. Sear the pork belly until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, ginger, sugar, and garlic. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Slow-Cooked Miso Glazed Pork Belly
Slow-Cooked Miso Glazed Pork Belly Recipe
Summary: A sweet and savory miso glaze elevates the rich flavor of slow-cooked pork belly, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Season the pork belly with salt and pepper. Place it in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Pour the miso glaze over the pork belly, then add chicken broth to cover about 2/3 of the meat.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Japanese Pork Belly Kakuni (Simmered Pork Belly)
Kakuni, a popular Japanese comfort dish, is a hearty and flavorful stew made with pork belly, soy sauce, sake, and mirin. This recipe yields tender, unctuous meat that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 cups dashi broth (or substitute with chicken or pork stock)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake
– 2 tablespoons mirin
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– Salt and black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine pork belly, dashi broth, soy sauce, sake, mirin, garlic, ginger, and star anise.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or overnight until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Grilled Pork Belly Yakitori Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these Grilled Pork Belly Yakitori Skewers, a creative take on the classic Japanese street food. The sweet and savory combination of pork belly, soy sauce, and honey will have you hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey. Add sliced pork belly; marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Remove pork from marinade; thread onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with sesame oil; season with salt to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until pork is caramelized and slightly charred.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions; serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Spicy Miso Ramen with Pork Belly Chashu
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork belly chashu and spicy miso ramen, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying bowl of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sake or dry white wine
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Scallions, thinly sliced for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, miso paste, gochujang, soy sauce, and sake or dry white wine. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Add sliced pork belly and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Add vegetable oil, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the spicy miso broth. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pork Belly Donburi (Rice Bowl) with Soft-Boiled Egg
This hearty rice bowl dish combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork belly, savory braising liquid, and a soft-boiled egg for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese cooking wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 soft-boiled egg
– Cooked Japanese rice
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork belly, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, water, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Slice the soft-boiled egg into wedges.
5. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
6. Assemble donburi by placing cooked rice in a bowl, topping with shredded pork belly, and garnishing with sliced egg and sesame seeds (if using).
Cooking Time: 2 hours (pork belly braising time) + 30 minutes (rice cooking time)
Japanese-Style Crispy Pork Belly Bao Buns
Experience the harmony of tender pork belly, crispy skin, and soft bao buns infused with Asian flavors. This recipe combines the best of Japan and Chinese cuisines to create a mouthwatering snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp ground white pepper
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 4-6 bao buns (store-bought or homemade)
– Scallions, thinly sliced
– Pickled ginger, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and white pepper.
3. Score the pork belly fat in a crisscross pattern. Rub the marinade all over the meat and let it sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Roast the pork belly in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
5. Toast bao buns according to package instructions.
6. Assemble by slicing the pork belly into thick pieces and serving with toasted bao, scallions, and pickled ginger.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including marinating time)
Pork Belly Sukiyaki with Tofu and Vegetables
Savor the rich flavors of Japan with this hearty Pork Belly Sukiyaki, featuring tender tofu and a colorful medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as mushrooms, bell peppers, carrots, and green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake
– 2 tablespoons mirin
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame oil and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or wok, combine soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, ginger, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the pork belly and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Add the tofu and mixed vegetables. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Serve hot, garnished with sesame oil and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Savory Pork Belly Teriyaki
Sweet and Savory Pork Belly Teriyaki Recipe
A sweet and savory twist on traditional teriyaki, this recipe is perfect for those who love the combination of caramelized sugar and tangy vinegar. The pork belly is slow-cooked in a rich and sticky sauce that’s both fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Add the sliced pork belly and cook for 10 minutes over medium heat, or until caramelized.
4. Transfer the pork belly to a baking dish and top with garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
5. Bake for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Pork Belly Hot Pot (Buta no Shabu-Shabu)
A hearty and comforting hot pot recipe that simmers pork belly to tender perfection, served with a variety of dipping options. Perfect for a cozy dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork belly, chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, sugar, garlic, ginger, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until pork is tender.
3. Serve hot with your choice of dipping options, such as steamed bok choy, cooked soba noodles, or sliced baguette.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pork Belly Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancake)
Okonomiyaki, a popular Japanese savory pancake, gets a delicious twist with the addition of pork belly. This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for a satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup okonomiyaki flour
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup sliced pork belly
– 1/4 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup diced green onion
– 1/4 cup bean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together okonomiyaki flour and water until smooth.
2. Add sliced pork belly, chopped cabbage, green onion, bean sprouts, soy sauce, and sake to the batter. Mix well.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Pour in 1/4 cup of the batter mixture.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown.
5. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Belly Nikujaga (Meat and Potato Stew)
Pork Belly Nikujaga (Meat and Potato Stew) Recipe
A hearty and comforting Japanese-inspired stew that combines tender pork belly with potatoes, onions, and a rich savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork belly, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, chicken broth, and water. Pour the mixture over the pork and vegetables.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Pork Belly Gyoza (Pan-Fried Dumplings)
Discover the rich flavors of Japan with this pan-fried Pork Belly Gyoza recipe. A delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, sake, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1-2 teaspoons of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the gyoza and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pork Belly Udon Noodle Soup
Warm up with this comforting bowl of goodness! Pork belly udon noodle soup is a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, sliced into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups dashi broth (or chicken or pork stock)
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup udon noodles
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced scallions, grated ginger, and/or pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add pork belly and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in dashi broth (or stock); bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Stir in pork belly and noodles into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions, scallions, grated ginger, and/or pickled ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork Belly Yakisoba (Stir-Fried Noodles)
Pork Belly Yakisoba (Stir-Fried Noodles) – A classic Japanese-Chinese fusion dish that combines the rich flavors of pork belly with a savory and spicy stir-fry sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying serving of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups Yakisoba noodles (or Chinese-style stir-fry noodles)
– 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 cup Mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 2 tablespoons Yakisoba sauce (or Stir-Fry sauce)
– 1 tablespoon Soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the pork belly strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic and mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the Yakisoba sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Add the cooked noodles and pork belly back into the pan. Toss everything together until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Belly Shogayaki (Ginger Pork)
Savor the bold flavors of Japan with this classic Pork Belly Shogayaki recipe, a staple of Japanese cuisine. Slow-cooked pork belly is marinated in a sweet and spicy mixture of ginger, soy sauce, and sugar, resulting in tender, caramelized meat that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, skin removed
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, grated ginger, garlic, and rice vinegar.
2. Add the pork belly to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until caramelized and tender.
5. Brush the pork with sesame oil during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Pork Belly Sushi Rolls with Pickled Radish
Experience the harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors in this unique sushi roll recipe, featuring tender pork belly and tangy pickled radish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound pork belly, cooked and diced
– 1 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– Pickled Radish (recipe below)
– Sushi-grade soy sauce and wasabi for serving
Pickled Radish:
– 2 large radishes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut pork belly into small pieces and mix with soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar (if using).
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a sushi mat. Spread a thin layer of cooked rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 2-3 pieces of pork belly in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll up the sushi using the mat, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into individual portions and serve with pickled radish, soy sauce, and wasabi.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including preparation)
Pork Belly Tempura with Dipping Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this crispy and indulgent pork belly tempura, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup ice-cold soda water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dipping Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and cornstarch.
2. Gradually add soda water and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Dip pork belly pieces into the batter, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry battered pork belly in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Serve with tempura.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pork Belly Rice Paper Rolls with Wasabi Mayo
Elevate your snack game with these crispy rice paper rolls filled with tender pork belly, crunchy vegetables, and a kick of wasabi mayo.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 rice paper wrappers
– 1/2 pound pork belly, braised until tender
– 1/2 cup shredded carrot
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Wasabi mayonnaise (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the pork belly into thin strips.
2. Soak a rice paper wrapper in warm water for about 10 seconds, then place on a clean surface.
3. Arrange 1-2 slices of pork belly, some shredded carrot, cucumber, and cilantro onto the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve with wasabi mayonnaise for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes braising time for pork belly)
Pork Belly Skewers with Yuzu Kosho Glaze
Elevate your grilling game with these succulent pork belly skewers, smothered in a tangy and savory yuzu kosho glaze. Perfect for a summer cookout or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup yuzu kosho paste (available at Asian markets or online)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread pork belly cubes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together yuzu kosho paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the pork belly skewers.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the pork is caramelized and crispy.
6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Japan with these 20 mouthwatering pork belly recipes! From classic dishes like Braised Japanese Pork Belly with Soy and Ginger, to innovative creations like Spicy Miso Ramen with Pork Belly Chashu, there’s something for every taste. Discover how to slow-cook miso glazed pork belly, make crispy bao buns, or simmer pork belly in a sweet soy broth. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more!
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