Indulge in the irresistible crunch and mouthwatering flavor of Heart-Healthy Crispy Pork Belly—a lighter twist on a beloved classic that's perfect for health-conscious foodies. This recipe uses lean pork belly, trimmed to minimize excess fat, and a savory marinade featuring olive oil, low-sodium soy sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder for a bold yet balanced flavor profile. Slow baking ensures tenderness, while a high-heat finish creates a beautifully crispy, golden crust without the need for heavy frying. Infused with fresh rosemary and brightened by a drizzle of lemon juice, this dish is as aromatic as it is heart-friendly. Pair it with steamed vegetables or a vibrant garden salad for a wholesome, nutrient-packed meal that feels indulgent but fits seamlessly into a health-forward lifestyle.
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Trim excess fat from the pork belly to ensure a leaner cut, then pat it dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, low-sodium soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper to form a marinade.
Place the pork belly in a baking dish, and evenly coat it with the marinade. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
Add the water and rosemary sprig to the baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to keep moisture in, and place in the oven.
Bake for 90 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure there is some liquid remaining in the dish.
After 90 minutes, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
Drizzle the lemon juice over the pork belly and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy, and internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete heart-healthy meal.
Calories |
2654 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 268.9 g | 345% | |
| Saturated Fat | 91.1 g | 456% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 327 mg | 109% | |
| Sodium | 1339 mg | 58% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 9.3 g | 3% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.7 g | ||
| Protein | 47.6 g | 95% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 58 mg | 4% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 709 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.