Introduction to Lechon Belly
Lechon belly is a beloved Filipino dish often featured during festivities and special occasions. This succulent roasted pork belly is renowned for its rich flavor and crispy skin, making it an irresistible centerpiece at celebrations. With its significance deeply rooted in Filipino culture, lechon belly brings families and friends together, symbolizing celebration and togetherness. Here’s a detailed recipe to help you recreate this exquisite dish at home.
Ingredients
For a mouth-watering lechon belly, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 whole pork belly (around 3-4 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks lemongrass, chopped
- ½ cup vinegar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3-4 bay leaves
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours
Servings: 6-8 people
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Filipino
1. Begin by combining salt, pepper, garlic, lemongrass, vinegar, soy sauce, and bay leaves to create a marinade.
2. Rub the marinade thoroughly onto the pork belly, ensuring to marinate it for at least an hour or overnight for enhanced flavors.
3. Roll the pork belly tightly and tie it securely with kitchen twine.
4. Preheat the oven or turbo broiler to 375°F (190°C). Roast the lechon belly for approximately 2 hours or until the skin is crispy and golden brown.
Tips for Perfect Crackling: To achieve that signature crispy skin, increase the temperature in the last 30 minutes of roasting.
Serving Suggestions: Serve your lechon belly with steamed rice, liver sauce, or a vinegar dip for an authentic experience.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
