Crispy Crackling Pork With Herb Rice Stuffing for Festive Flavors

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s nothing quite like the sound of crackling skin as it emerges from the oven, filling the room with an irresistible aroma. Last holiday season, I discovered a recipe that captured both the essence of celebration and the joy of home-cooked meals: Crispy Crackling Pork with Herb Rice Stuffing. This stunning centerpiece not only delights the senses but is surprisingly easy to prepare.

After a particularly busy week, I was craving a dish that would impress my friends and family without adding stress to the occasion. The tender, succulent pork belly enveloped in crispy skin is perfectly complemented by savory herb rice stuffing, making it an ideal fare for any festive table.

Get ready to roll up your sleeves and embark on a culinary adventure that will leave everyone at your table begging for seconds. Most of the prep can be done a day ahead, allowing you to serve up a show-stopping meal and still enjoy quality time with your loved ones. Let s dive into this delicious journey together!

Why is Crispy Crackling Pork With Herb Rice Stuffing a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: The rich, savory pork belly is enveloped in a symphony of flavors from the herb rice stuffing, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
Crispy Delight: Each bite offers an amazing contrast with a satisfying crunch from the perfectly crispy crackling skin.
Effortless Prep: Most of the work can be done a day in advance, allowing you to enjoy the festive occasion stress-free.
Versatile Pairing: Serve alongside seasonal vegetables or a light gravy for a complete and balanced meal.
Nutritional Boost: This dish not only delivers irresistible taste but also provides protein and fiber, keeping your feast wholesome and satisfying.

Crispy Crackling Pork With Herb Rice Stuffing Ingredients

For a delicious Crispy Crackling Pork with Herb Rice Stuffing, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pork
Pork Belly Choose a skin-on piece for the best crackling.
Sea Salt Essential for enhancing flavor and achieving crispy skin.

For the Herb Rice Stuffing
Jasmine Rice Provides a light texture that complements the pork.
Chicken Stock Adds moisture and flavor to the stuffing.
Star Anise Adds aromatic depth; substitute with cinnamon if unavailable.
Vegetable Oil Use for frying the onion and bacon mixture; olive oil works too.
Garlic (4 cloves) Fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
Onion ( ½) Softens and sweetens the stuffing; yellow or white onions are perfect.
Bacon or Pancetta (50g) Introduces richness; can be omitted for a vegetarian version.
Soy Sauce Gives a delicious umami boost to the stuffing; opt for tamari for gluten-free.
Coriander ( ¼ cup) Adds freshness and color; substitute with parsley if desired.
Spring Onion ( ¼ cup) Provides a delightful crunch and brightness; chives can replace it.
Lemon Zest Brightens the stuffing flavors; omitting will reduce zestiness.
Egg (1) Helps bind the stuffing; replace with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.

How to Make Crispy Crackling Pork With Herb Rice Stuffing

1. Prep the Herb Rice Stuffing: In a saucepan, bring jasmine rice, chicken stock, and star anise to a boil. Cover and reduce heat, cooking for 10 minutes until the rice is tender. Remove the star anise and let it cool in a bowl.
2. Cook Aromatics: Sauté minced garlic, diced onion, and sliced bacon in vegetable oil over medium heat for about 10 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir this mixture into the cooled rice and add soy sauce. Chill in the freezer for 10-15 minutes, then stir in the chopped coriander, spring onion, lemon zest, and egg.
3. Prepare Pork Belly: Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels, then score the skin in shallow cuts and rub generously with sea salt. Flip the pork, spread the herb rice stuffing on top, place the reserved pork piece in the center, roll it up tightly, and secure with kitchen string. Refrigerate uncovered overnight.
4. Roast the Pork: Preheat your oven to 200 °C (390 °F). Ensure the pork skin is dry, then roast for 20 minutes to initiate crackling. Reduce the heat to 170 °C (338 °F) and continue roasting for an additional 1.5 hours until fully cooked and the crackling is crisp.
5. Serve: Once removed from the oven, let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure juicy meat. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy every bite!

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and added freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Crispy Crackling Pork with Herb Rice Stuffing?

Elevate your holiday feast with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this show-stopping dish.

• Roasted Vegetables: A vibrant array of seasonal veggies like Brussels sprouts and carrots brings freshness and color to your plate. Their caramelization complements the savory pork beautifully.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes serve as a comforting base that balances the crispy pork s richness. Elevate them with roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
• Apple Sauce: This classic pairing adds a sweet and tangy note that cuts through the pork s richness, refreshing the palate with every bite. It s the perfect contrast to savor.
• Cranberry Chutney: A fruity chutney adds depth and brightness, enhancing the savory profile of your crispy crackling pork. Its tartness harmonizes with the herb stuffing perfectly.
• Light Gravy: A delicate, homemade gravy drizzled over the pork brings additional moisture and flavor, ensuring every bite is indulgently satisfying and comforting.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a crisp texture and cuts through the meal s richness. Toss in some pomegranate seeds for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Sparkling Wine: Celebrate with a glass of chilled sparkling wine or cider, as its effervescence contrasts wonderfully with the rich textures on your plate, making each sip delightful.
• Chocolate Torte: To end the meal on a sweet note, serve a rich chocolate torte. Its decadence pairs beautifully with the flavors of the pork, leaving a memorable impression.

Expert Tips for Crispy Crackling Pork

• Dry Skin is Key: Make sure the pork skin is thoroughly dried before roasting; this ensures that you achieve the crispiest crackling possible.
• Shallow Scoring: When scoring the skin, keep your cuts shallow to avoid cutting too deep into the meat, which helps retain moisture and flavor.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfect results, use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches an internal temperature of 75 °C (165 °F) for safe consumption.
• Chill the Stuffing: Cooling the stuffing mixture in the freezer before using allows it to firm up, making it easier to handle when rolling it into the pork.
• Experiment with Stuffing: Feel free to swap herbs or add seasonal veggies to your stuffing for a unique twist on the classic crispy crackling pork with herb rice stuffing.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allow the pork to rest for at least 10-15 minutes after roasting to lock in juices and guarantee that every slice is incredibly tender.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Crackling Pork with Herb Rice Stuffing is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the herb rice stuffing and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps, and once everything is combined, cool the stuffing properly before sealing it in an airtight container. The pork belly can also be prepped a day ahead; just score the skin, salt it, and roll it with the stuffing. For optimal crackling, refrigerate the pork uncovered overnight. When you re ready to roast, just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven, ensuring each bite is just as delicious and satisfying when served!

Crispy Crackling Pork With Herb Rice Stuffing Variations

Get ready to elevate your dish with delightful twists that will surprise and please your taste buds!

• Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of any butter or dairy in the stuffing for a rich, flavorful option without the creaminess.
• Herb Swap: Try using fresh thyme or sage in place of coriander for a unique flavor profile that adds depth to the stuffing.
• Vegetarian Delight: Omit the bacon or pancetta altogether and replace it with sautéed mushrooms for a rich, meaty taste without the meat.
• Grain Alternatives: Swap jasmine rice with quinoa or brown rice for an earthier flavor and chewy texture that brings a twist in your stuffing.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes to the herb stuffing for an exciting heat that complements the pork beautifully.
• Nutty Flavor: Incorporate toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts into the stuffing for an added crunch and nutty undertone.
• Citrus Zest: Beyond lemon, use orange or lime zest to brighten up the stuffing with a refreshing citrus burst that will elevate the entire dish.
• Seasonal Veggies: Mix in roasted seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or Brussels sprouts into the stuffing for added flavor complexity and vibrant color.

Feel free to experiment with these variations your culinary creativity knows no bounds!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Crackling Pork

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the pork and stuffing for optimal flavor preservation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork and herb rice stuffing separately in airtight bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) until thoroughly heated, ensuring the crackling stays crispy. Microwave reheating is not recommended as it may lead to soggy skin.

Airtight: Always use airtight containers or bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of your crispy crackling pork with herb rice stuffing.

Crispy Crackling Pork with Herb Rice Stuffing Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pork belly for crackling?
Choose a skin-on pork belly that has an even layer of fat beneath the skin. The skin should look smooth and free of blemishes, while a bit of marbling in the meat ensures juiciness. If you can find pork belly with a thicker skin, that s often ideal for achieving perfectly crispy crackling.

How should I store leftover crispy crackling pork?
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It s best to store the pork and herb rice stuffing separately to help preserve their textures and flavors. When you re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat the pork in the oven to help maintain its crispy skin.

Can I freeze crispy crackling pork with herb rice stuffing?
Absolutely! To freeze, separate the pork and herb rice stuffing and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in airtight bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you re ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) to restore that delicious crackling texture.

What should I do if the skin doesn t crackle properly?
If your skin doesn t crackle as expected, it may be due to moisture. Ensure the skin is completely dry before roasting, and consider scoring it slightly more to help the fat render out. A quick blast of high heat at the end of cooking can also help achieve a crispy finish.

Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this crispy crackling pork with herb rice stuffing can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Always check labels on your ingredients, especially on packaged products, to ensure they are gluten-free.

Can my pets share in the feast?
While the pork itself is safe for pets in moderation, avoid giving them any seasoned parts or stuffing, especially those with onions, garlic, or excessive salt. It s always best to stick to plain, unseasoned meat without any added oils or seasoning for your furry friends!