Slow cooker pork belly is the kind of dinner that feels a little special without asking much from you, which is exactly why I love making it on a busy weeknight. Raw pork belly strips slowly cook down into tender, rich bites with barely any effort, and with just a handful of ingredients you get that sweet-savory flavor that tastes like you worked a lot harder than you did.
This rich pork belly pairs really well with simple sides that balance it out. I like serving it over steamed white rice or fluffy mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce, with something crisp like roasted green beans, sautéed bok choy, or a quick cucumber salad on the side. If you want to keep things casual, tuck the pork belly into soft buns with a little slaw for an easy sandwich-style dinner.
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pork Belly
Servings: 4
Ingredients
2 pounds raw pork belly strips
Directions
1. Place the raw pork belly strips in the bottom of your slow cooker in an even layer.
2. In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and water until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
3. Pour the sauce over the pork belly, cover, and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the pork is very tender.
4. Once cooked, gently turn the pork belly in the sauce so each piece is coated, then serve hot with some of the cooking liquid spooned over the top.
Variations & Tips
For a little heat: Stir in a spoonful of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the sauce ingredients if your family likes sweet and spicy flavors together.
Make it less rich: Pork belly is naturally very rich, so I like serving smaller portions with plenty of rice and vegetables. You can also skim some of the fat from the sauce before serving for a lighter finish.
Add a fresh finish: A sprinkle of sliced green onions or sesame seeds on top adds nice color and a little contrast right before serving, especially if you're serving this for company.
Meal prep tip: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a spoonful of the sauce, then use the pork belly in rice bowls, lettuce wraps, or tucked into sandwiches for an easy second meal.
Cooking tip: Try not to overfill the slow cooker. Keeping the pork belly in a mostly even layer helps it cook more consistently and lets the sauce flavor every piece.
