There’s a certain satisfaction in transforming everyday ingredients into a feast that tells a story. When I first experimented with pork belly and apples, it felt as if I was combining two worlds: the savory richness of perfectly roasted pork and the sweet, comforting essence of fruit. The idea struck me one crisp autumn evening when I could hear the rustle of leaves outside while the scent of spices lingered in my kitchen.
This Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus isn’t just a dish—it’s a journey. With a golden, crispy exterior that practically beckons to be sliced, each bite is an invitation to indulge in flavor. The apples become caramelized and rich, complementing the pork’s natural juiciness. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking to impress friends during a gathering, this recipe combines elegance with approachability. And believe me, the looks on their faces when they taste this masterpiece will be priceless! So let’s dive in and make a perfect dinner delight that’s sure to chase away the fast-food blues.
Why is Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus irresistible?
Irresistible Flavor: This dish masterfully balances the rich savoriness of pork belly with the sweet, caramelized flavor of apples, creating a harmony on your palate.
Effortless Elegance: Impress your guests without the fuss! The simple steps lead to a stunning presentation.
Perfect for Sharing: A crowd-pleaser for gatherings, your family and friends will rave about this unique combination.
Comfort Food Delight: It’s an ideal way to warm up chilly evenings and enjoy comforting flavors that feel like a hug.
Time-Saving Simplicity: Quick prep means you’ll have more time to enjoy with your loved ones! For an even easier option, consider checking out my guide on making simple apple purées that pair beautifully here.
Pork Belly with Apples Ingredients
For the Pork
- 1 kg pork belly – scored to ensure a crispy, golden skin.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – helps to achieve that beautiful, crunchy exterior.
- 1 tsp sea salt – enhances the pork’s natural flavors and promotes crispiness.
For the Apple Mixture
- 3 apples – use your favorite variety for sweetness; Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work beautifully!
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter – adds richness and helps caramelize the apples.
- 1 tbsp sugar – enhances the sweetness of the apples for a delectable topping.
For the Sauce
- 1 cup red wine – imparts depth and complexity; choose a bold variety you enjoy sipping.
- ½ cup chicken stock – provides a savory backdrop, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar – adds a tangy note to balance the sweetness of the apples; perfect for the sauce!
For Garnish
- Microgreens – adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness on top.
- Thin apple slices – optional, but they create a lovely presentation and extra crunch!
With these Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus ingredients, you’re set to create a memorable dish that will warm hearts and satisfy cravings. Enjoy every step of the cooking journey!
How to Make Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a roasting dish by lightly oiling it to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
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Score the pork belly skin by making shallow cuts across the surface, then rub it with olive oil and sea salt. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy skin.
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Roast the pork belly in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the skin is golden brown and incredibly crispy. Keep an eye on it during the last 30 minutes to avoid burning.
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Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped apples with sugar until they turn golden and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
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Add the red wine, chicken stock, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet with the apples. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
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Serve the pork belly sliced, topped with the luscious apple mixture, and garnish with microgreens and thin apple slices for an elegant touch. Enjoy!
Optional: Drizzle extra balsamic vinegar for added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the richness of this sumptuous dish.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture balances the savory pork while offering a comforting classic. Every bite feels like a warm hug!
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Braised Green Beans: Crisp-tender, they add a fresh element with a touch of acidity, enhancing the richness of the pork belly.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in balsamic, these offer a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet elements of the apple purée.
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Herbed Quinoa Salad: This light, nutty side brings a refreshing contrast and adds a nutritious touch to your dinner table.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tart counterpart that beautifully offsets the sweetness of the apples, creating a superb flavor harmony.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread invites dipping into the luscious jus, making sure you savor every drop of flavor.
These pairings create an unforgettable dining experience that transforms an ordinary meal into a heartfelt feast!
Make Ahead Options
These Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the apple mixture—sautéing the chopped apples with butter and sugar—up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. The pork belly can be scored and seasoned ahead of time as well, making your cooking day much smoother. When you’re ready to enjoy, roast the pork belly until crispy, then warm the apple mixture in a skillet. Just like that, you’ll have a delightful meal that is just as delicious as when made fresh, allowing you to savor every moment with your loved ones.
How to Store and Freeze Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus
Fridge: Store leftover pork belly with apple purée in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to retain crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork belly and apple mixture separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To bring back the juicy goodness and crispy texture, reheat the pork belly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
Wrapping: Ensure to wrap the pork belly tightly with plastic wrap before storing in the freezer to prevent freezer burn, keeping your pork belly with apple purée & jus delicious.
Expert Tips for Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus
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Skin Scoring: Make shallow cuts in the pork belly skin to allow fat to render out, ensuring a crispy texture without burning.
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Apple Selection: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best sweet-tart contrast to the pork belly’s richness.
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Watch the Roast: Keep an eye on the pork during the last 30 minutes of roasting; adjusting the temperature can prevent over-browning.
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Simmer Gently: When combining the apples with red wine and chicken stock, simmer gently to avoid scorching while developing bold flavors.
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Presentation Matters: Serve immediately with a drizzle of extra balsamic and sprinkle of microgreens for a stunning look that highlights the pork belly with apple purée & jus.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep track of time during the roasting and simmering phases to ensure the pork remains juicy and tender, creating the perfect dish.
Pork Belly with Apple Purée Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and tailor it to your taste preferences!
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Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the apples while sautéing for a delightful heat that contrasts with the sweetness. Combine the warmth of the spice with the rich flavor of the pork; it’s a match made in culinary heaven!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme into the apple mixture for an aromatic twist that elevates the dish’s overall flavor profile. A hint of these fragrant herbs can bring out earthiness that pairs beautifully with pork.
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Cider Swap: Replace red wine with apple cider for a sweeter sauce that enhances the fruitiness of the dish. This substitution not only adds a lovely sweetness but also brings a touch of seasonal charm—perfect for cozy nights!
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute sugar with maple syrup in the apple mixture for a deeper, more complex sweetness that complements the savory pork. The combination of maple and pork is a classic, ensuring each bite delivers comfort and warmth.
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Vegan Option: For a plant-based version, swap pork belly for seitan or jackfruit and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You won’t miss the pork belly as the flavor of the luscious apple sauce takes center stage!
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Different Fruits: Experiment with pears or figs in place of apples for a unique twist that adds different textures and flavors. Each fruit introduces its own charm, reminding you how versatile this dish truly is!
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Crunchy Topping: Top your apple purée with crushed nuts or seeds for an added layer of crunch that provides a fun textural contrast. Whether you choose walnuts or pumpkin seeds, this topping offers a delightful surprise!
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika into the pork rub before roasting for a layer of smoky depth that enhances the overall dish. The smoky notes combined with sweet apples create a new sensory experience you’ll love!
Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These varieties give a perfect sweet-tart contrast to the richness of the pork belly, making every bite a delight.
How can I store leftover Pork Belly with Apple Purée?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the pork belly in the oven. This method helps retain its delightful crispiness without drying out the meat.
Can I freeze Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus?
Yes, you can! For longer storage, I suggest freezing the pork belly and apple mixture separately. Use freezer-safe bags and ensure to remove as much air as possible. Your delicious meal can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat the pork belly?
To bring back that juicy goodness and maintain the crispy texture, reheat the pork belly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This will revive its flavor while ensuring it’s heated through perfectly.
Do I need to score the pork belly skin?
Very much! Scoring the skin with shallow cuts allows the fat to escape, resulting in that coveted crispy texture. It’s essential for achieving that delicious crunch we all love while preventing it from burning during the roasting process.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For those avoiding gluten or looking for a lower-carb option, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! However, if you’re preparing this dish for guests or family members with specific allergies, always double-check the ingredients, especially in store-bought items like chicken stock or red wine, for any hidden allergens.
Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus: A Cozy Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a roasting dish by lightly oiling it to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Score the pork belly skin by making shallow cuts across the surface, then rub it with olive oil and sea salt.
- Roast the pork belly in the preheated oven for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the skin is golden brown and incredibly crispy.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped apples with sugar until they turn golden and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add the red wine, chicken stock, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet with the apples. Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Serve the pork belly sliced, topped with the luscious apple mixture, and garnish with microgreens and thin apple slices.