If you’re in search of an irresistible appetizer or main dish that’s packed with flavor and sure to impress your guests, look no further than Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes. These bite-sized, crispy pork belly cubes are coated in a rich, sticky teriyaki glaze that offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and umami flavors. With their tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and crispy edges, Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes are an indulgent yet simple-to-make dish that can elevate any meal or gathering.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to prepare the perfect Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes, from choosing the right ingredients to step-by-step instructions, along with tips for achieving the best flavor and texture. We’ll also explore variations, serving suggestions, and pairings to complement the dish. By the end, you’ll have all the tools you need to create this crowd-pleasing favorite.

Why Pork Belly Is a Perfect Choice

Pork belly is known for its rich flavor and luscious texture, making it a popular ingredient in a variety of global cuisines. When cooked properly, it becomes tender and juicy on the inside, with a beautifully crispy, caramelized exterior. In Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes, the pork belly is transformed into bite-sized morsels that are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a main dish.

The natural fattiness of pork belly pairs exceptionally well with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce, which cuts through the richness and balances the dish. Pork belly’s versatility and ability to absorb flavors make it the ideal choice for this recipe.

Ingredients for Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes

To make these delicious teriyaki pork belly cubes, you’ll need a few simple yet essential ingredients:

For the Pork Belly:

  • Pork Belly: The star of the dish, pork belly is a flavorful cut of meat with layers of fat that render during cooking, creating a tender and crispy result.
  • Vegetable Oil: Used for searing the pork belly, which helps develop a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
  • Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the flavor of the pork.

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: The base of the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor that complements the richness of the pork.
  • Mirin: A sweet rice wine used in Japanese cooking, mirin adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
  • Sake: Traditional Japanese rice wine that enhances the flavor of the sauce. If you don’t have sake, water can be used as a substitute, but sake adds a unique complexity.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the saltiness of the soy sauce and creates a sticky, caramelized glaze.
  • Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and helps thicken the sauce, giving it a glossy finish.
  • Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic ingredients add depth and warmth to the teriyaki sauce, balancing the sweetness with a bit of spice.
  • Cornstarch (Optional): Used to thicken the sauce if needed.
  • Water (Optional): Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening the sauce.

For Garnish:

  • Sesame Seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and a nice crunch to the dish.
  • Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the pork belly.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes

Ingredients:

For the Pork Belly:

  • 1 lb pork belly, skin removed and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 2 tablespoons sake (or water)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
  • 1 tablespoon water (optional, for thickening)

For Garnish:

  • Sesame seeds
  • Chopped green onions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Belly

  1. Cut the Pork Belly: Start by cutting the pork belly into 1-inch cubes. Remove the skin if it’s still attached, as this recipe focuses on achieving a crispy exterior without the skin.
  2. Season the Pork: Generously season the pork belly cubes with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavors.
  3. Sear the Pork Belly: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the pork belly cubes in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space between each cube. Cook the pork for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until each piece is golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your skillet, you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
  4. Drain and Set Aside: Once the pork belly cubes are seared on all sides, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. Set them aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin, sake, brown sugar, honey, garlic, and ginger. This mixture forms the base of your teriyaki sauce.
  2. Cook the Sauce: Using the same skillet you used to sear the pork belly, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the teriyaki sauce mixture. Stir frequently and bring the sauce to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 5-6 minutes. The sauce will start to thicken slightly and become glossy.
  3. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Slowly stir this slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 3: Coat the Pork Belly

  1. Return the Pork Belly to the Pan: Once the teriyaki sauce is ready, return the seared pork belly cubes to the skillet. Toss them in the sauce until each cube is thoroughly coated. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, allowing the pork belly to absorb the sauce and caramelize slightly.
  2. Caramelization: Keep an eye on the sauce as it reduces; you want the pork to develop a sticky, caramelized exterior without burning. The goal is to have the pork belly cubes glistening with the rich teriyaki glaze.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

  1. Plate the Pork Belly Cubes: Remove the teriyaki pork belly cubes from the skillet and arrange them on a serving platter or individual plates.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle the pork belly cubes with sesame seeds for a nutty crunch and chopped green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish.
  3. Serve Hot: Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes are best served hot and can be enjoyed as a stand-alone appetizer or paired with steamed rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes

  1. Use High-Quality Pork Belly: Look for fresh pork belly with a good balance of fat and meat. The fat renders as the pork cooks, creating a tender, juicy texture, while the meat becomes crispy and flavorful.
  2. Achieve a Crispy Exterior: The key to this recipe is achieving the perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Make sure to sear the pork belly cubes on all sides before adding them to the teriyaki sauce.
  3. Control the Sauce’s Thickness: If you prefer a thicker teriyaki sauce, the optional cornstarch slurry will help you achieve a glossy, restaurant-quality glaze. Be sure to simmer the sauce until it thickens, as this will allow it to cling to the pork belly cubes.
  4. Watch the Caramelization: When tossing the pork belly in the teriyaki sauce, keep a close eye on the pan. The sugars in the sauce can caramelize quickly, and you want to avoid burning the sauce while still getting a sticky, caramelized finish.

Variations on Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:

  1. Spicy Teriyaki Pork Belly: Add a bit of heat to the dish by incorporating red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha into the teriyaki sauce. The spiciness balances out the sweetness and adds a new dimension of flavor.
  2. Honey Garlic Pork Belly: For a simpler variation, skip the teriyaki sauce and toss the seared pork belly cubes in a honey-garlic glaze made with honey, soy sauce, and garlic. This creates a slightly sweeter and more garlicky version of the dish.
  3. Korean-Inspired Pork Belly: Add gochujang (Korean red chili paste) to the teriyaki sauce for a Korean twist. The gochujang adds both heat and depth, giving the dish a fusion of Korean and Japanese flavors.
  4. Pineapple Teriyaki Pork Belly: For a tropical twist, add fresh pineapple chunks to the pan during the last few minutes of cooking. The pineapple’s sweetness pairs perfectly with the teriyaki sauce and balances the richness of the pork belly.
  5. Gluten-Free Teriyaki Pork Belly: To make the dish gluten-free, substitute tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce for the regular soy sauce. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes can be served in a variety of ways depending on the occasion:

  • Appetizer: Serve these bite-sized pork belly cubes as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy grabbing. They’re perfect for casual gatherings, cocktail parties, or game day snacks.
  • Main Dish: Pair the pork belly cubes with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a simple green salad for a more substantial meal. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce pairs beautifully with fresh, light sides.
  • Tacos or Sliders: For a fun twist, use the teriyaki pork belly cubes as a filling for tacos or sliders. Add pickled vegetables and a drizzle of extra sauce for a flavor-packed bite.

Health Benefits of Pork Belly (In Moderation)

While pork belly is known for its richness and higher fat content, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Here are a few key health benefits:

  1. Rich Source of Protein: Pork belly provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
  2. Rich in Healthy Fats: When eaten in moderation, the fat in pork belly can provide energy and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
  3. Vitamins and Minerals: Pork belly contains important nutrients such as B vitamins (particularly B12), which support brain function and energy metabolism.

While pork belly is an indulgent choice, enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet can make it a flavorful treat.

Beverage Pairings for Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes

The sweet and savory flavors of Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes can be enhanced with the right beverage pairing. Here are a few suggestions:

  1. Sake: Traditional Japanese sake is a great match for teriyaki pork belly. Its light, slightly sweet flavor complements the umami-rich teriyaki sauce.
  2. Beer: A crisp, light lager or an amber ale pairs well with the richness of pork belly, balancing out the fattiness with its carbonation and refreshing taste.
  3. Red Wine: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with pork belly. The wine’s acidity helps cut through the richness of the pork and complements the teriyaki glaze.
  4. Iced Green Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, serve iced green tea. Its earthy, slightly bitter notes refresh the palate and pair well with the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.

Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes are a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender, juicy texture and crispy caramelized edges, these bite-sized morsels are coated in a rich teriyaki glaze that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors.

Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party, as part of a meal with rice and vegetables, or even in tacos or sliders, Teriyaki Pork Belly Cubes are sure to impress your guests with their bold flavors and irresistible texture. Try this recipe at your next gathering and enjoy the delightful combination of crispy pork belly and rich teriyaki sauce!