Can You Bbq Pork Belly? Here’s What You Need To Know!

Pork belly, a prized cut of meat renowned for its succulent texture and rich flavor, has captivated culinary enthusiasts for centuries. Grilling pork belly elevates its allure, transforming it into a mouthwatering masterpiece. But can you truly grill pork belly? The answer is a resounding yes! With the right techniques and a few simple steps, you can create a grilled pork belly that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Understanding Pork Belly

Pork belly, also known as bacon belly, is a cut of meat from the pig’s belly. It consists of layers of meat, fat, and skin. The fat content is what gives pork belly its characteristic juiciness and flavor. When grilled properly, the fat renders, creating a crispy exterior while leaving the meat tender and succulent.

Choosing the Perfect Pork Belly

The key to grilling a perfect pork belly lies in selecting the right cut. Look for a pork belly with a thick layer of fat, at least 1 inch thick. The skin should be intact and free of any blemishes. A good quality pork belly will yield the best results.

Preparing the Pork Belly

Before grilling, the pork belly needs to be prepared properly. Begin by scoring the skin with a sharp knife. This will help the fat render and create a crispy exterior. Season the pork belly generously with your favorite spices and rubs. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.

Grilling the Pork Belly

Now comes the exciting part: grilling the pork belly. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the pork belly skin side down on the grill. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the pork belly and continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Resting and Carving

Once the pork belly is grilled, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat. Carve the pork belly into thin slices and serve with your favorite sides.

Marinating Pork Belly

Marinating pork belly prior to grilling is highly recommended. It enhances the flavor and helps tenderize the meat. Here are a few popular marinades:

• Soy Sauce Marinade: Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil.
• Honey Mustard Marinade: Mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, and spices.
• BBQ Marinade: Use your favorite BBQ sauce or create your own with a blend of spices, vinegar, and ketchup.

Cooking Pork Belly on a Gas Grill

If you have a gas grill, you can still grill pork belly with great results. Follow the same steps as outlined above, but adjust the heat to medium-high. Use a drip pan to catch the rendered fat and prevent flare-ups.

Cooking Pork Belly on a Charcoal Grill

Charcoal grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor to pork belly. Use indirect heat by placing the pork belly on one side of the grill and the charcoal on the other side. This will prevent the pork belly from burning.

What You Need to Learn

Q: What is the best way to score pork belly?
A: Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts into the skin, about 1/4 inch apart.

Q: How long should I marinate pork belly?
A: Marinating for at least 30 minutes is recommended, but longer is better.

Q: What temperature should the pork belly be cooked to?
A: For medium-rare, cook to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: How do I get crispy pork belly skin?
A: Score the skin deeply and grill over high heat.

Q: Can I cook pork belly in the oven?
A: Yes, but the skin will not be as crispy as when grilled.