Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly Recipe | Sticky & Tender Delight

If you’re craving a show-stopping main dish that balances sweet and savory perfectly, this honey glazed pork belly recipe is just what you need. The sticky glaze caramelizes beautifully over the tender pork belly, making every bite irresistibly juicy and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this dish always steals the spotlight.

this Recipe

You’ll find this honey glazed pork belly both easy and rewarding to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward roasting, it’s an ideal recipe to elevate your dinner rotation. Once you try it, the sticky and tender texture will have you coming back for more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly balanced sweet and savory flavor with honey and soy sauce
• Sticky, caramelized glaze that locks in juicy tenderness
• Simple roasting method requiring minimal active prep time
• Great make-ahead option for entertaining or meal prep
• Pairs well with steamed rice, veggies, or noodles for versatile meals

Ingredients

Gather these pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create your honey glazed pork belly masterpiece.

• 2 pounds pork belly, skin scored
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions, for garnish
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 520 (approx. per serving)

How to Make Savory Honey Glazed Pork Belly 🍯🥢 | Sticky & Tender

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Pat the pork belly dry and score the skin in a crisscross pattern to help the flavors penetrate and the fat render evenly.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, five-spice powder, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and water to make the glaze.
3. Place the pork belly skin-side up on a roasting rack set in a baking tray. Brush half the glaze all over the pork belly, reserving the rest for later.
4. Roast the pork belly for 1 hour, basting with the remaining glaze every 20 minutes to build a sticky, caramelized coating.
5. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and slightly charred in spots. The pork belly should be tender and golden.
6. Remove from the oven and let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing thickly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Tips for the Best Results

• Score the pork skin carefully without cutting into the meat to ensure even cooking.
• Baste frequently to develop that signature sticky, glossy glaze.
• If you prefer extra crisp skin, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end but watch closely to prevent burning.
• Let the pork belly rest before slicing to keep juices locked in.
• Use fresh ginger and garlic for the most vibrant flavor in the glaze.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover honey glazed pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s great for meal prep or quick dinners throughout the week.

For freezing, wrap the pork belly tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes or until warmed through to keep the meat tender and the glaze sticky.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use skinless pork belly for this recipe?

While skin-on pork belly gives you that nice caramelized glaze and texture, you can use skinless pork belly if preferred. Just be aware you’ll miss out on the crispy, sticky skin experience.

What can I serve with honey glazed pork belly?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed greens like bok choy, or even simple noodles. Pick sides that can soak up the sticky glaze for a balanced meal.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! The pork belly tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded. Just reheat gently before serving to keep it tender and sticky.

How do I get the glaze sticky without burning it?

Baste the pork belly several times during roasting to build up the glaze gradually. Keep the oven temperature moderate and increase it only at the end for caramelization, watching closely to avoid burning.