19
Nov

Gut-Friendly Roasted Pork Belly

Crispy Skin • Juicy Meat • Easier on the Stomach

This version keeps the classic flavor but adds herbs, spices, and methods that support digestion, reduce heaviness, and balance richness.

📝 Ingredients

For the Pork Belly

  1. 3–4 lbs pork belly, skin on
  2. 1 tablespoon salt (for the skin)
  3. 1 teaspoon black pepper
  4. 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, helps the skin blister evenly)

Aromatics (Gut-Friendly Enhancers)

These help reduce bloating and make the pork easier to digest:

  1. 1 stalk lemongrass, smashed
  2. 4–5 cloves garlic, crushed
  3. 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, sliced
  4. 2 bay leaves
  5. 1 small red onion, sliced
  6. 1 teaspoon whole peppercorns

Seasoning Rub

(Makes the flavor rich but gentle for the gut)

  1. 2 tablespoons rock salt
  2. 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  3. 1 teaspoon paprika
  4. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  5. 1 teaspoon onion powder
  6. ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  7. ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  8. ½ teaspoon turmeric (helps reduce inflammation)

Optional Dips (Gut-Friendly Versions)

  1. lemon + pepper + a little soy
  2. Light brown gravy
  3. Atsara (super helpful for digestion)

🔪 Preparation

1. Dry the Skin Completely

Pat the pork skin dry with paper towels.
Dry skin = crispier crackling and less oil trapped inside.

2. Score or Poke the Skin (optional)

Use a sharp knife or pork-pricker.
Better blistering = less fat trapped under the skin.

3. Rub the Meat Side with the Seasoning Mix

Massage the spices on the inner meat part only.
Do NOT put seasoning on the skin.

4. Add the Aromatics

Place lemongrass, garlic, ginger, onion, peppercorns, and bay leaves in the center.

5. Roll Tight & Tie

Roll the pork belly and tie with kitchen twine to keep its shape.

6. Leave the Skin Exposed Overnight

Place in the fridge uncovered for 6–12 hours.
This dries the skin naturally—crispy skin guaranteed.

🔥 Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Oven to 350°F (180°C).

Place the lechon belly on a rack (so fat drips down).

2. Slow Roast for 1.5–2 Hours.

This melts excess fat and tenderizes the meat—making it easier to digest.

3. Increase Temperature to 425°F (220°C).

Roast for another 30–45 minutes to crisp the skin.

✨ Tip: If the skin isn’t fully crispy, turn on the broiler for 3–5 minutes (watch closely!).

Perfect Pairings for Better Digestion

To balance the richness, serve it with:

  1. Atsara (papaya pickles) — helps cut oiliness and supports digestion
  2. Fresh greens or a simple cucumber salad
  3. Gravy made lighter and less salty
  4. Lemon dipping sauce to help break down fats

Encourage guests to:

  1. Eat slowly
  2. Pair lechon with fresh or fiber-rich sides
  3. Drink water or ginger tea

These small habits make heavier dishes much easier on the stomach.

🎉 Perfect for Thanksgiving

This dish stays crispy, juicy, and flavorful—AND your guests can enjoy it without feeling overly stuffed or bloated.