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Beef Belly Recipe

Beef Belly Recipe

Beef belly is a rich and flavorful cut of meat that is often overlooked, but it can be transformed into a mouthwatering dish when cooked properly. This recipe takes advantage of slow cooking to tenderize the meat, infuse it with savory flavors, and render the fat for a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this beef belly recipe will impress with its rich flavor and tenderness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2-3 lbs beef belly with or without skin, depending on preference
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 cup beef broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce optional for added umami
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Sharp knife (for scoring the fat)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Cooking tongs
  • Small bowl (for mixing seasoning)
  • Meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Beef Belly: Trim any excess fat from the beef belly if desired, but make sure to leave enough fat on the meat to keep it juicy and flavorful. Score the fat in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat itself. Pat the beef belly dry with paper towels.
  2. Season the Beef Belly: In a small bowl, combine the ground black pepper, salt, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Rub this seasoning mix all over the beef belly, making sure it gets into the scored fat. Let the meat sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  3. Sear the Beef Belly: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef belly, fat side down. Sear it for about 4-5 minutes until the fat is golden and crispy. Flip the beef belly and sear the other side for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef belly and set it aside.
  4. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant.
  5. Cook the Beef Belly: Add the beef broth (or water) and soy sauce (if using) to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the liquid to a simmer. Return the beef belly to the skillet, fat side up. Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and allow it to cook for about 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart.
  6. Rest the Beef Belly: Once the beef belly is cooked to perfection, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender.
  7. Slice and Serve: Slice the beef belly against the grain into portions. Drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the slices and garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Slow Cooking: The key to making beef belly tender is cooking it low and slow. Be patient with the process, as this allows the fat to render and the meat to become tender.
  • Alternative Cooking Methods: If you prefer grilling, you can finish the beef belly on the grill after searing. This adds a smoky flavor to the meat and creates a nice char on the outside.
  • Flavor Variations: If you enjoy a bit of spice, add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix. You can also experiment with adding different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, for a personalized flavor.
  • Serving Suggestions: Beef belly pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a more casual meal, you can shred the beef and use it in tacos or sandwiches.
Beef Belly Recipe