Five spice oven roasted crispy pork belly (asian-style)
I love pork belly!!! If you’re looking for a flavorful, satisfying meal that doesn’t break the bank, pork belly is one of the most rewarding cuts you can cook with. It’s rich, tender, and naturally packed with flavor—proof that affordable ingredients can create restaurant-worthy dishes when prepared the right way.
This oven-roasted pork belly recipe is simple, versatile, and bursting with deep, umami-rich flavor. It’s marinated in a fragrant blend of ginger, garlic, gluten-free soy sauce, sesame oil, and a hint of five-spice—then slow-roasted until the edges turn crispy and golden while the inside stays juicy and tender. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s as nourishing as it is indulgent.
Why Pork Belly? Pork belly is often overlooked because it’s a fattier cut, but that’s exactly what makes it special. The natural fat renders down during roasting, basting the meat from within and giving it an irresistible, caramelized flavor. When enjoyed in moderation and paired with fresh vegetables or a bowl of rice, it becomes a perfectly balanced, nutrient-rich meal.
Functional Fats for Energy and Hormone Health! The fat in pork belly isn’t just about taste—it’s also a great source of slow-burning energy. Quality animal fats play an essential role in hormone production, nutrient absorption (especially fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K), and maintaining steady blood sugar. When combined with the ginger, garlic, and vinegar in this recipe, the result is both delicious and supportive for digestion and metabolism.
One of the best things about pork belly is that it’s economical—especially compared to leaner cuts of meat. A small portion goes a long way, and you can use it in countless ways:
Add it to a rice or quinoa bowl for a balanced meal
Toss into a salad for a hit of protein and crunch
Serve with roasted vegetables for a hearty, nutrient-dense dinner
Eat as a high-protein, high-fat snack
This recipe transforms a humble, budget-friendly ingredient into something truly special. With just a few pantry staples and a little patience, you’ll end up with crispy, caramelized pork belly that’s packed with flavor, nourishing fat, and satisfying texture—perfect for any day of the week.
RECIPE
Ingredients
1400 g (3 lb) pork belly
For the Marinade:
3 Tbsp ginger-garlic paste
1 tsp chili powder
½ cup gluten-free soy sauce
¼ cup rice vinegar
2 Tbsp honey
1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1 tsp five-spice powder
Instructions
Prep the pork belly: Cut the pork belly into 1-inch cubes and place them in a large bowl.
Make the marinade: In a separate bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until smooth and well combined.
Marinate: Pour the marinade over the pork belly, mix well to coat evenly, and refrigerate for 6–12 hours (or overnight) to allow the flavors to deepen.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated pork belly cubes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between pieces so they roast evenly instead of steaming.
Roast to perfection: Bake for about 60 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on the pork toward the end—allow it to crisp up beautifully without burning.
Serve: Enjoy your crispy pork belly as a protein-packed topping for rice bowls, salads, or colorful rainbow bowls.
As usual, these are my thoughts and ideas, not medical advice. You are encouraged to create your own recipes or search for some suited to your needs. I am just sharing my recipes, hoping that I can inspire some of you to make healthier food choices.
Please remember that we all have different nutritional needs and that food affects us differently. If you are not sure which foods are best for you, reach out for a free phone consultation.
In good health,
Ioana