Maple Mustard Pork Belly Bites Recipe
This Maple Mustard Pork Belly Bites Recipe features tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly roasted until perfectly crisp, then coated in a sweet, tangy maple mustard glaze. It’s an easy yet indulgent recipe ideal for appetizers, parties, or a flavour-packed main dish.
Ingredients
For the Pork Belly Bites
- 700 –900 g 1.5–2 lb pork belly, skin removed, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1½ –2 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
For the Maple Mustard Glaze
- ¼ cup pure maple syrup
- 3 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole-grain mustard optional, for texture
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 –2 garlic cloves finely minced
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari optional
- Pinch of chili flakes optional
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh chives or parsley finely chopped
- Flaky sea salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place a wire rack over a rimmed baking sheet to allow fat to render properly.
Season the Pork Belly
- Arrange the pork belly cubes in a single layer on the rack. Season evenly with salt and black pepper.
Slow Roast to Render Fat
- Roast the pork belly for 60–75 minutes, until much of the fat has rendered and the meat is tender.
Prepare the Maple Mustard Glaze
- While the pork belly cooks, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, whole-grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Warm gently in a small saucepan over low heat to combine flavours.
Crisp and Glaze
- Increase oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Brush the pork belly bites lightly with the glaze and return to the oven for 12–18 minutes, flipping once, until caramelized and crispy on the edges.
Final Glaze and Rest
- Remove from the oven and toss the bites with remaining glaze. Let rest for 3–5 minutes to allow flavours to settle.
Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs and flaky sea salt if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Extra Crispiness: For ultra-crispy edges, finish the bites in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes per side after oven roasting.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Variations: Add sriracha for heat, swap Dijon for honey mustard for extra sweetness, or include rosemary or thyme for a herby twist.