Craving a truly unforgettable meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! These pork belly sliders are bursting with flavor and texture, a perfect blend of crispy, succulent pork and tangy slaw, all nestled in soft, pillowy buns. This recipe is perfect for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun weekend gathering, or even an impressive appetizer. Get ready to elevate your slider game!
Ingredients:
For the Pork Belly:
- 1 lb pork belly, skin scored
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
For the Quick Pickled Onions:
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Slaw:
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- 6 slider buns
- Your favorite slider toppings (e.g., cilantro, jalapenos)
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Belly:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Scoring the skin helps render the fat more evenly.
- Rub the pork belly generously with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Place the pork belly in a roasting pan and roast for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C) and the skin is crispy.
- Let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Making the Quick Pickled Onions:
- Combine the thinly sliced red onion, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and salt in a small bowl.
- Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the onions to pickle slightly. This adds a delightful tangy crunch.
Assembling the Slaw:
- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and sugar.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Putting it All Together:
- Slice the rested pork belly into thick slices.
- Warm the slider buns slightly.
- Layer the pork belly, quick pickled onions, and slaw on the bottom bun.
- Top with the other bun and add any desired extra toppings.
Tips for Perfect Pork Belly Sliders:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure proper air circulation around the pork belly for even cooking and crispy skin.
- Check the internal temperature: Using a meat thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked pork belly every time.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Prep ahead: The pickled onions and slaw can be made ahead of time, saving you time on the day of serving.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Sliders: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the pork belly rub or the slaw for an extra kick.
- Asian-Inspired Sliders: Use hoisin sauce or sriracha mayo instead of regular mayonnaise in the slaw.
- Sweet and Savory: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the pork belly before roasting.
Nutritional Information (per slider, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
These pork belly sliders are a fantastic example of a delicious and satisfying meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. The combination of textures and flavors is truly irresistible, making them perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!