Pork belly is a sumptuously rich, incredibly flavorful cut of meat that originates from the belly of a pig. Featuring layers of fat and muscle, pork belly is commonly used in a variety of gourmet recipes and traditional dishes around the world. It has a tough texture, but when cooked properly, it softens to a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that is irresistibly delicious.

Pork belly is unsmoked and uncured; it is essentially fresh bacon with the skin still attached. Its succulent meaty taste makes it a highly versatile cut that can be used to create a wide array of impressive dishes. It can be braised, roasted, grilled, smoked, or used in stews, offering endless culinary possibilities.

Pork belly slices are often used in Asian cuisines such as Chinese, Korean, and Filipino. Meanwhile, whole pork belly is a star in Western dishes like Italian porchetta, or can be slow roasted for a crisp, crackling finish. For those who love an extravagant tweak in their meals, this ingredient is a true gamechanger.

When purchasing pork belly, look for a meat that is firm with a healthy pink color and white fat. The meat should be dense, marbled, and should feel heavy for its size. Pork belly is prized for its rich, savory flavor, and under the right culinary guidance, it promises an unforgettable explosion of taste and texture.

Pork belly can typically be found in the meat department of a grocery store. Look for it in the pork section like bacon, pork loin, etc. If you cannot find it, ask a staff member for assistance. Some stores may not carry it regularly, or it might be a specialty item that you have to request. You can also find it at a local butcher's shop or order it online.