There is no need to give up everything you love while on keto because this Honey-glazed pork belly recipe is packed full of flavor and completely keto-friendly! This delicious and healthy recipe caters to various dietary restrictions, including the popular ketogenic diet. We understand the struggle of finding tasty meals while on a strict diet, which is why we aim to provide options that are both satisfying and nutritious.
![Pork Belly on plate](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-h1.jpg)
This dish incorporates flavorful ingredients like honey, soy sauce, and garlic for a sweet and savory glaze that will leave your taste buds wanting more. And don't worry, our use of honey in this recipe doesn't break any keto rules - we make sure to use sugar-free honey so you can still enjoy it. Not only is this dish delicious, but it's also incredibly easy to make.
Ingredients
Here is a quick look at what you will need. You can find the full measurements in the recipe card below.
![Pork Belly on plate](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-ing.jpg)
- Pork belly slab with skin attached
- Chinese 5 Spice powder
- Soy sauce
- Sugar-free honey
- Rice wine vinegar
- Ground white pepper
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
This is a quick overview of the steps. See the Recipe card below for the rest.
![Pork Belly raw](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-1.jpg)
Score the fat of the pork belly with a sharp knife, and place it fat side up in a casserole dish.
![Pork Belly seasoned](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-2.jpg)
Rub the Chinese 5 spice rub powder evenly on both sides of the pork belly.
![say sauce on Pork Belly](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-3.jpg)
In a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients well.
![](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-pork-Belly.jpg)
Pour the mixture on top of the pork belly, cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 ½ hours in a preheated 300 degree oven
![Pork Belly cooked](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-4.jpg)
Uncover, baste with the braising liquid, and cook for another 30 minutes to an hour until crispy. You can add some beef or chicken broth to the bottom of the casserole dish if the liquid starts to disappear. Continue to baste the pork belly at regular intervals during the last bit of cooking.
Variations and Substitutions
- For a spicier version, add some chili flakes, cayenne pepper or Sriracha to the braising liquid.
- You can also use different types of spice rubs, such as Cajun or BBQ seasoning, for a different flavor profile.
- If you don't have Chinese 5 spice powder, you can make your own by combining equal parts of ground cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Sichuan peppercorns.
- To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, substitute the pork belly with seitan or firm tofu.
- Instead of baking in the oven, you can also cook the pork belly on the stovetop in a large skillet with a lid. Cook on low heat for about 2-3 hours, until the pork is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- If you are short on time, you can also use an Instant Pot or pressure cooker to cook the pork belly in less than an hour.
- For a more Asian-inspired flavor, use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce and garnish with chopped scallions/green onion and sesame seeds.
- If you do not have white pepper, you can always use black pepper
- Use balsamic vinegar instead of rice wine vinegar
Equipment
- deep baking dish
- small bowl
![Pork Belly on plate](http://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-h2.jpg)
Storage
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 2-3 days
Freezing: You can store in a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months
Reheat in the microwave or oven for 7-10 min at 375°F (190°C) and prepare a deep baking dish by coating it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the pork belly from sticking to the pan.
Pro Tips
- For an extra crispy crust, broil the pork belly in the casserole dish for 2-3 minutes before serving.
- To make cleanup easier, line your casserole dish with foil or parchment paper before adding the pork belly and marinade.
- Don't have a casserole dish? You can also use a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper.
FAQ
Chinese five-spice originated in the southern part of China. It is a blend of five spices – cinnamon, cloves, fennel seeds, star anise, and Szechuan peppercorns. These spices are traditionally used in Chinese cuisine to create a balance of sweet, salty, sour, and bitter flavors.
Yes, you can use other types of protein such as chicken or beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the size and thickness of the protein you choose.
This dish pairs well with steamed rice and vegetables such as bok choy or even brussels sprouts if that is your favorite.
![Pork Belly on plate](https://thelazyketo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Honey-Glazed-Pork-Belly-feat-300x300.jpg)
Honey Glazed Pork Belly
Equipment
- deep baking dish
- Small bowl
Ingredients
- 2 - 2 ½ lb. Pork belly slab with skin attached
- 2 tsp. Chinese 5 Spice powder
- 3 Tbsp. Soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp. Sugar free honey
- 3 Tbsp. Rice wine vinegar
- ¼ tsp. Ground white pepper
Instructions
- Score the fat of the pork belly with a knife, and place it fat side up in a casserole dish.
- Rub the Chinese 5 spice powder evenly on both sides of the pork belly.
- In a bowl, combine the remaining ingredients well.
- Pour the mixture over the pork belly, cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 ½ hours in a preheated 300 degree oven
- Uncover, baste with the liquid, and cook for another 30 minutes to an hour until crispy. You can add some beef or chicken broth to the bottom of the casserole dish if the liquid starts to disappear. Continue to baste the pork belly at regular intervals during the last bit of cooking.
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