Spicy Barbecue Pork Belly with a Smoky Bourbon Glaze

This savory and succulent dish features tender pork belly marinated and roasted to perfection, then smothered in a rich, smoky barbecue glaze infused with the warm, robust flavor of bourbon. The combination of spices and the caramelized, sticky finish will leave your taste buds craving for more. Perfect for a hearty dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Pork Belly:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin scored
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder

For the Bourbon Barbecue Glaze:
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup bourbon
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).

2. Prepare the pork belly:
Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Score the skin in a diamond pattern without cutting into the meat. Rub the pork belly with olive oil, then season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and garlic powder.

3. Roast the pork belly:
Place the pork belly on a roasting rack over a baking dish. Roast in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender.

4. Prepare the bourbon barbecue glaze:
While the pork belly is roasting, combine all the ingredients for the glaze in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze has thickened slightly.

5. Glaze the pork belly:
Once the pork belly is done roasting, remove it from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Brush the pork belly generously with the bourbon barbecue glaze. Return the pork belly to the oven and roast for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and sticky. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

6. Rest and serve:
Remove the pork belly from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve the sliced pork belly with any remaining bourbon barbecue glaze on the side.

Enjoy your Spicy Barbecue Pork Belly with a Smoky Bourbon Glaze!