Crispy Pork Belly with Zucchini: A Simple Chinese-Style Recipe

Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this recipe for crispy pork belly with zucchini – a delightful fusion of textures and tastes inspired by Chinese cuisine. Forget complicated techniques and long prep times; this dish balances succulent, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly with the freshness of tender zucchini, all achieved with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. The rich, savory flavor of the pork beautifully complements the subtle sweetness of the zucchini, creating a harmonious culinary experience.

This recipe perfectly showcases how seemingly simple ingredients can transform into a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. The satisfying crunch of the pork belly contrasts beautifully with the soft zucchini, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and exciting. Ready to create this culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process.

Tools Needed

  • Frying pan
  • Plate
  • Chopping board
  • Knife

Ingredients

  • Pork belly
  • Dark soy sauce
  • Egg white
  • Oyster sauce
  • Cornstarch
  • Ginger
  • Garlic
  • Spring onion
  • Zucchini
  • Salt
  • Cooking oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Pork Belly and Vegetables

  • Slice the pork belly thinly.
  • Marinate the pork belly with dark soy sauce, egg white, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it sit for 30 minutes.
  • Chop the ginger, garlic, and spring onion.
  • Slice the zucchini.
Slice the pork belly thinly.Marinate the pork belly with dark soy sauce, egg white, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it sit for 30 minutes.Chop the ginger, garlic, and spring onion.Slice the zucchini.
Prepare the Pork Belly and Vegetables

Step 2. Fry the Pork Belly and Zucchini

  • Heat oil in a frying pan. Once hot, fry the marinated pork belly until well done.
  • Remove the pork belly and set aside.
  • Fry the zucchini until half cooked, then set aside.
Heat oil in a frying pan. Once hot, fry the marinated pork belly until well done.Remove the pork belly and set aside.Fry the zucchini until half cooked, then set aside.
Fry the Pork Belly and Zucchini

Step 3. Sauté Aromatics and Combine Ingredients

  • Add salt to the ginger, garlic, and spring onion.
  • In the same pan, combine the fried pork belly, zucchini, ginger, garlic, and spring onion. Mix well and add a little more salt.
Add salt to the ginger, garlic, and spring onion.In the same pan, combine the fried pork belly, zucchini, ginger, garlic, and spring onion. Mix well and add a little more salt.
Sauté Aromatics and Combine Ingredients

Step 4. Finish and Serve

  • Fry everything together until heated through.
  • Serve immediately.
Fry everything together until heated through. Serve immediately.
Finish and Serve

Read more: Easy Char Siu Chicken Roast: Sweet & Sticky BBQ Chicken Recipe

Tips

  • Ensure the pork belly is thinly sliced for even cooking.
  • Adjust the amount of salt according to your preference.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 600-700
  • Fat: 50-60g
  • Carbs: 15-20g
  • Protein: 25-30g

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of squash instead of zucchini?

Yes! Yellow squash or even butternut squash (cubed) would work well, though the cooking time might need adjusting. Butternut squash will take longer to cook.

2. How do I ensure the pork belly gets crispy?

Pat the pork belly very dry before cooking. High heat and a little space in the pan are key. Don't overcrowd the pan, and allow the fat to render properly.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The pork belly can be cooked ahead of time and reheated. The zucchini is best added just before serving to maintain its freshness and texture.


This Crispy Pork Belly with Zucchini recipe delivers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, proving that delicious, restaurant-quality meals can be surprisingly easy to make at home. The simple yet elegant combination of ingredients will quickly become a family favorite. Enjoy this satisfying and flavorful dish!