If you’re looking for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth dish with deep flavor and a beautiful caramelized crust, this sticky glazed pork belly roast is exactly what you need. Slow-roasted until tender, then coated in a sweet and savory glaze with onions, this dish delivers incredible texture—crispy on top, juicy inside, and packed with bold flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredibly tender and juicy meat
Sweet and savory caramelized glaze
Perfect balance of crispy and soft textures
Great for special dinners or weekend cooking
Simple ingredients with restaurant-quality results

Ingredients

For the pork belly:
2–3 lbs pork belly (skin on)
1 tbsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

For the glaze and base:
2 large onions, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)
1 cup water or broth

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the pork belly
Score the skin in a crisscross pattern. Rub with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, making sure it gets into the cuts.

Step 2: Prepare the base
Place sliced onions and garlic in a baking dish. Pour in water or broth to create moisture during cooking.

Step 3: Make the glaze
In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, paprika, and chili flakes.

Step 4: Assemble
Place the pork belly on top of the onions. Brush generously with the glaze.

Step 5: Roast low and slow
Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Baste occasionally with the sauce.

Step 6: Caramelize the top
Increase oven temperature to 220°C (425°F) for the final 20–25 minutes until the top becomes sticky and caramelized.

Step 7: Rest and serve
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Spoon the onion sauce over the top.

Tips for Best Results
Score the skin well for better texture
Baste regularly to build flavor
Use a rack if you want extra crispy skin
Don’t rush the cooking—slow roasting is key
Let it rest before cutting to keep juices inside

Variations
Add ginger for an Asian-style twist
Use maple syrup instead of honey
Add carrots or potatoes to roast with it
Make it spicy with extra chili flakes or hot sauce
Use BBQ sauce for a smoky version

Serving Suggestions
Serve with mashed potatoes or rice
Pair with roasted vegetables
Add crusty bread to soak up the sauce
Great with a fresh green salad

Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

FAQ

Can I use pork shoulder instead?
Yes, but pork belly gives a richer and more tender result.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, reheat and glaze again before serving.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, but texture may slightly change. Reheat slowly.

How do I get extra crispy skin?
Finish under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.