Martin Picard's MapleSmoked Pork Belly

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Table of Contents

1. What is Pork Belly?
2. How to Smoke Pork Belly?
3. What to Serve with Pork Belly?
4. How to Store Pork Belly?
5. Can You Freeze Pork Belly?

What is Pork Belly?

Pork belly is a cut of meat that comes from the belly of a pig. It is a fatty, flavorful meat that is often used in Asian cuisine, but has gained popularity in the United States in recent years. Pork belly can be cooked in a variety of ways, but smoking it is one of the most popular methods.

When preparing pork belly for smoking, it is important to choose a good quality piece of meat. Look for a piece that is evenly marbled with fat and has a good amount of meat on it as well. This will ensure that your pork belly is tender and flavorful when it is finished cooking.

How to Smoke Pork Belly?

Smoking pork belly is a delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of meat. Here is a simple recipe for smoking pork belly:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb. pork belly
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

Instructions:

1. Mix together the brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly.
3. Place the pork belly in a smoker and smoke at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Remove the pork belly from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

What to Serve with Pork Belly?

Pork belly is a rich, fatty meat that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas for what to serve with pork belly:

• Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots
• Grilled or roasted corn on the cob
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Mac and cheese

These sides will help cut through the richness of the pork belly and provide a balanced meal.

How to Store Pork Belly?

If you have leftover pork belly, it is important to store it properly to ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat. Here are a few tips for storing pork belly:

• Let the pork belly cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator.
• Wrap the pork belly tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in.
• Store the pork belly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

It is important to note that pork belly should be consumed within 4 days of cooking, as it is a high-risk food for bacterial growth.

Can You Freeze Pork Belly?

Yes, pork belly can be frozen for later use. Here are a few tips for freezing pork belly:

• Let the pork belly cool to room temperature before freezing it.
• Wrap the pork belly tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in.
• Place the wrapped pork belly in a freezer-safe container or bag and label it with the date.
• Store the pork belly in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you are ready to use the frozen pork belly, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once it is thawed, you can reheat it in the oven or on the grill for a delicious meal.

Conclusion

Smoked pork belly is a delicious and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you serve it with roasted vegetables, garlic mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese, pork belly is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your pork belly is cooked to perfection and stored safely for later use.