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Onion-Smothered Pork Belly – Rich, Rustic & Irresistible
Golden-seared pork belly glazed with lemon and garlic, then slow-cooked with caramelized onions — a bold, savory dish full of homestyle flavor and Latin soul.
Tender pork in a rich onion sauce — juicy on the inside, golden on the outside.
Ingredients
500g pork belly, cut into strips or cubes
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt, to taste
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Black pepper, to taste
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tbsp oil or pork lard
2 large onions, thinly sliced into rings
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Season the Pork
In a bowl, toss the pork belly with lemon juice, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic.
Let marinate for 15–20 minutes for deeper flavor.
2. Sear the Pork
Heat the oil or lard in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated pork belly and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Add the Onions
Lower the heat to medium.
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Add the sliced onions directly over the pork in the same pan.
Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and caramelize slightly — about 10 minutes.
4. Simmer & Finish
Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for another 10–15 minutes to let flavors meld.
Uncover and cook 2–3 more minutes if you want to reduce the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with white rice, mashed potatoes, or warm tortillas.
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Pair with a fresh tomato salad or pickled vegetables for balance.
Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley before serving for color and aroma.
Tips & Troubleshooting
Pork too chewy?
Make sure to cook it low and slow after searing — pork belly needs time to soften.
Onions burning?
Add a splash of water or broth if needed, and keep the heat moderate.
Want a sweeter version?
Add a pinch of brown sugar or caramelized apple slices with the onions.
FAQs
1. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge up to 3 days, and reheat gently on the stove.
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2. Can I use another cut of meat?
Absolutely. Try it with boneless pork shoulder, ribs, or even beef strips for a variation.
3. Can I make it spicy?
Definitely — add chili flakes, smoked paprika, or sliced fresh chili when searing the meat.
Final Thoughts
This Onion-Smothered Pork Belly is the kind of dish that fills the house with delicious aroma and warms the soul. It’s simple, deeply flavorful, and made to be shared — a rustic classic that never fails to impress.