Super Crispy Smoked Pork Belly
Recipe Overview
Overview
The Super Crispy Smoked Pork Belly recipe is a delightful journey into the world of BBQ. Starting with a hefty 5.5 lb piece of pork belly, the process begins with cutting it into strips and scoring the fat. This step is crucial as it allows the fat to render beautifully, leading to that coveted crispy texture. The seasoning is kept simple with just cracked salt, allowing the natural flavors of the pork to shine through.
Once seasoned, the pork belly strips are placed on a raised rack in a pellet grill, set to 270°F. The smoking process infuses the meat with a rich, smoky flavor while rendering the fat. After about two and a half hours, the pork belly reaches an internal temperature of around 175°F, ready for the next step.
The real magic happens when the strips are deep-fried at 350°F. This double frying technique ensures that the pork belly achieves a golden-brown, crispy exterior while remaining tender inside. The addition of a Mexican seasoning blend right after frying elevates the dish, making it perfect for tacos. The final touch of fresh guacamole and lime juice adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pork belly.
This recipe is not just about cooking; it’s about creating an experience. The combination of smoky, crispy pork belly with vibrant toppings makes for a taco that is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just indulging in a personal treat, this dish is sure to impress.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Cut the pork belly into strips.
Score the top fat layer of the pork belly.
Season the pork belly with cracked salt on all sides.
Set the pork belly strips on a greased raised rack on a baking sheet.
Tip: Grease the rack to prevent sticking.
Preheat the pellet grill to 270°F using pecan pellets.
Place the pork belly strips on the grill.
Close the grill lid and let it smoke.
Check the internal temperature of the pork belly.
Remove the pork belly from the smoker after 2.5 hours.
Heat peanut oil in a deep fryer to about 350°F.
Drop the pork belly strips into the hot oil.
Adjust the heat to maintain oil temperature between 325°F and 350°F.
Tip: A double fry will make the pork belly extra crispy.
After the first fry, remove and prepare for a second fry.
Fry the pork belly for an additional 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness.
Season the fried pork belly with Mexican seasoning.
Tip: Use your favorite Mexican seasoning for added flavor.
Prepare a taco with guacamole and pieces of pork belly.
Top the taco with red salsa.
Tip: Squeeze fresh lime juice to enhance the flavor.
Finish the taco with a squeeze of lime juice and Valentina sauce.
Ingredients
Ingredient: Peanuts
→ Substitution: Canola Oil
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Pork belly is a versatile cut of meat that can be used for various dishes, including tacos and burnt ends.
- •Scoring the fat on pork belly helps render it down and achieve a crispy texture.
- •Using a pellet grill allows for even cooking and flavor infusion from the wood pellets.
- •Double frying pork belly enhances its crispiness, making it a perfect addition to tacos.
