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There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the sizzling sound of pork belly meets a hot skillet. As the heat transforms those thick slices into a glossy treasure, the anticipation builds. When I first drizzled honey over the seared pork, the mesmerizing aroma wafted through my home, prompting friends to peek in, drawn by the sticky-sweet allure.

Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly is not just a dish; it’s a comforting embrace on a plate, where each bite delivers the perfect harmony of sweet and savory. Whether it’s a relaxed family dinner or an elaborate weekend feast, this recipe delivers a crowd-pleasing experience that never fails to impress. Even better, it’s a make-ahead marvel that tastes even better after the flavors mingle and deepen.

Join me as we whip up this delightful dish that’s both easy to prepare and irresistible in flavor. Let’s gather around the table because good food is meant to be shared!

Why choose Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of sweet honey and savory soy sauce creates a unique glaze that enhances the rich, tender pork belly.

Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for family gatherings or weekend dinners, it guarantees compliments and smiles at your table.

Versatile Variations: Whether you prefer a spicy kick with gochujang or a refreshing citrus twist, this recipe allows you to customize it to your tastes.

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can create a show-stopping dish.

Make-Ahead Marvel: Prepare this dish in advance and let the flavors deepen, making weeknight dinners effortless.

Embrace the joy of cooking with this delightful dish, and check out our serving suggestions for the perfect accompaniments!

Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly Ingredients

• The secret to a delectable dish starts with quality ingredients!

For the Pork

Pork Belly – Main protein, tender and rich; substitute with pork shoulder or butt for a leaner option.

For the Glaze

Honey – Adds sweetness and creates a sticky glaze; reduce if a less sweet taste is preferred.
Soy Sauce – Provides umami and saltiness; opt for low-sodium for a healthier dish.
Dark Soy Sauce – Optional, for a deeper color and flavor enhancement.
Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness and aids in caramelization; coconut sugar is a lower glycemic alternative.
Rice Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity to balance sweetness; lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
Garlic – Offers aromatic depth; double the amount for a more robust garlic flavor.
Fresh Ginger – Introduces warmth and spice; use ground ginger if fresh is unavailable.
Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty flavor for cooking; vegetable oil can be a neutral substitute.
Water – Dilutes the glaze for simmering.

For Garnish

Green Onions – Adds fresh flavor and a pop of color for garnishing.
Sesame Seeds – Optional, providing a delightful crunch and nuttiness.

Dive into the world of flavors with Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly, where each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating this sticky, sweet delight!

How to Make Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly

Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels. This step ensures a crispy texture when cooked, which is essential for that mouthwatering finish.
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the pork belly pieces for about 10–12 minutes until golden brown and crisp. After cooking, remember to drain any excess fat for a cleaner flavor.
Mix together honey, soy sauces, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and water in a separate bowl. This mixture will be your sticky glaze—be sure it’s well combined to achieve balanced flavor.
Pour the glaze over the seared pork belly, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens. You’ll see it transform into a shiny coating!
Continue cooking until the glaze caramelizes, turning it sticky and glossy. Keep an eye on it, as the magic happens quickly; you want that perfect balance!
Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving. These not only add flair but boost the flavor with freshness and crunch.

Optional: Serve over fluffy jasmine rice for a delightful meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly is perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the pork belly by searing it and then refrigerating it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the glaze, mix all ingredients and store in the fridge separately—this will preserve its freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply simmer the pork belly with the glaze in a skillet on medium-low heat until everything is heated through and coated again, which only takes about 10-12 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a dish that is just as delicious, if not better, when reheated!

What to Serve with Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly?

Elevate your meal with complementary sides that balance the sweet and savory notes of this delightful dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice:
The delicate nuttiness of jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the rich glaze, soaking up the excess sauce and enhancing each bite.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy:
This crisp, vibrant vegetable adds freshness and a slight crunch, contrasting beautifully with the tender pork belly.
Crispy Asian Slaw:
A tangy slaw loaded with fresh veggies and sesame dressing not only adds color but also a refreshing crunch that balances the dish.
Grilled Corn on the Cob:
The natural sweetness of grilled corn complements the honey glaze, while smoky char brings a depth of flavor to your plate.
Sesame Noodles:
These savory noodles are a perfect vessel to absorb the residual sauce from the pork, creating a flavorful and harmonious bite.
Chilled Cucumber Salad:
Refreshing and light, this salad with a sweet vinegar dressing offers a cool contrast that cuts through the richness of the pork belly.
Ginger Tea:
A soothing ginger tea acts as a gentle palate cleanser, enhancing the meal without overpowering its flavors.
Mango Sticky Rice:
For dessert, this sweet treat ties in the tropical flavors, providing a delightful finish that echoes the sweetness of the pork.

Expert Tips for Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly

Dry the Pork: Patting the pork belly dry before searing is crucial; moisture will prevent that beautifully crispy texture.
Adjust the Sweetness: Don’t hesitate to modify the amount of honey according to your taste. The keyword is versatility, so make it your own!
Sear Carefully: Ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the pork. A good sear locks in flavor and adds depth to your dish.
Watch the Glaze: Keep an eye on the glaze as it simmers; too long and it can burn. Stir gently to achieve even coating and avoid sticking.
Experiment with Variations: Consider tweaking the recipe with your favorite flavors, like adding citrus zest or using a different type of vinegar for a unique twist.

Storage Tips for Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly

Refrigerator: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This preserves the flavors and ensures the pork stays tender.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely before packing for best results.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to revive the glaze and keep it moist.
Thawing: For best texture, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating; this prevents the pork from drying out.

Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly Variations

Customize your dish with these exciting twists that elevate the already delightful flavors!

Asian BBQ Twist: Finish the pork belly under a broiler for a few minutes to get that extra char. This crispy finish adds a grill-like smokiness that is simply irresistible.
Garlic-Lover’s Version: Amp up your garlic game by doubling the amount used in the glaze. The aroma will become even more aromatic, tantalizing the senses with each bite.
Citrus Glaze: Incorporate freshly squeezed orange juice or a sprinkle of zest to the glaze. This brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing twist that will awaken your palate.
Korean-Inspired: Use gochujang instead of soy sauce for a spicy and slightly sweet flavor. This variation brings a delightful heat, perfect for those craving a kick!
Herb-Infused: Toss in fresh herbs like thyme or cilantro during the final minutes of cooking. These add an aromatic freshness that complements the richness of the pork belly.
Honey-Maple Fusion: Combine honey with maple syrup for a deeper sweetness. This variation creates an indulgent, syrupy goodness that pairs beautifully with the savory glaze.
Spicy Honey Glaze: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or sriracha to the glaze mixture for an extra zing. This spicy kick gives a vibrant contrast to the sweetness of the honey.
Miso-Glazed: Stir in a tablespoon of white miso paste into your glaze. This adds umami depth and a hint of savoriness that takes the dish into delightful new territory.

Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pork belly?
Absolutely! When choosing pork belly, look for a piece that’s thick, with a good balance of fat and meat. The fat should be creamy white and the meat should have a rosy pink color. Avoid any with dark spots or excessive liquid in the packaging, as these can indicate spoilage.

How should I store leftovers of Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly?
After indulging in this delicious dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’ve cooled to room temperature before sealing for optimal freshness!

Can I freeze Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly? How?
Yes, you can freeze it! First, allow the pork belly to cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to retain that lovely glaze.

What should I do if the glaze is too thick or too thin?
Great question! If your glaze is too thick, add a little water (1-2 tablespoons at a time) while cooking and stir until you reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce; keep stirring to prevent burning. Aim for a coating that clings nicely to the pork belly!

Is this dish safe for pets?
While the savory flavors of Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly might sound enticing to your furry friends, it’s best to avoid sharing it with them. The honey and soy sauce can be harmful in large amounts, particularly for pets. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
Very! If you prefer a less sweet glaze, simply reduce the amount of honey or brown sugar. You can even add a splash of extra vinegar to enhance the balance of flavors. Feel free to taste and adjust as you go; cooking is all about your personal preferences, after all!