Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly for Irresistible Holiday Feasts

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

There s something incredibly satisfying about the way sizzling pork belly transforms into a show-stopping dish, especially when infused with the fragrant charm of five-spice seasoning. As the aroma fills my kitchen, I find my thoughts wandering to festive gatherings, where friends and family surround the table, eagerly awaiting the first crisp slice. This Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly isn t just a meal; it s a celebration of comfort and cheer, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday feasts or cozy weekend dinners.

With its irresistibly crunchy crackling skin and melt-in-your-mouth tender meat, this recipe promises a delightful contrast of textures that will keep your guests raving. Plus, the process is surprisingly straightforward, allowing even the most novice home cooks to impress without the fuss. So tighten your apron and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that offers both ease and an explosion of flavor your taste buds will thank you!

Why Love Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly?

Flavor Explosion: The aromatic five-spice rub delivers a deliciously unique flavor profile that sets this dish apart from traditional roasts.

Effortless Cooking: Its straightforward process makes it perfect for home cooks of any skill level, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.

Impressive Presentation: With its gorgeous crackling skin, this pork belly is sure to wow your guests, making it ideal for special occasions.

Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside tangy sauces or vibrant slaws for a well-rounded meal that caters to diverse palates.

Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish brings warmth and festivity to your table.

Ingredients for Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly

For the Pork

• Pork Belly (2.5kg/5.5 lb) Look for skin-on pork belly for the best crackling experience.
• Sea Salt (1 tbsp + 3 tbsp for rub) Kosher salt enhances flavor and texture great for seasoning the skin and meat.
• Vegetable Oil Brush this onto the baking rack for crispier skin; any neutral oil works fine.

For the Spice Rub

• Chinese 5-Spice (1 tbsp) This aromatic mix adds depth and flavor complexity; substitute with a homemade mix if needed.

This Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly is bound to become a cherished recipe at your holiday gatherings!

How to Make Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly

1. Prepare the Pork: Score the pork skin in a grid pattern using a utility knife and ruler, ensuring you don t cut into the meat. Pat the skin dry with a paper towel to enhance the crackling.
2. Apply Rub: Combine the 5-spice rub ingredients well. Generously rub the spice mixture over the meat side, avoiding the skin. Press 1 tablespoon of salt firmly into the scored skin, then refrigerate uncovered overnight.
3. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 150 °C (300 °F) to prepare for an even roast that gives you tender, juicy meat.
4. Roast Pork: Brush a wire rack with vegetable oil. Place the pork belly skin side up on the rack and roast for 3 hours until it becomes tender.
5. Crisp the Skin: Increase the oven temperature to 200 °C (400 °F) and roast for an additional hour. Watch closely until the skin is golden brown and irresistibly crispy.
6. Serve: Slice into thick pieces and serve alongside Spiced Plum Sauce and a refreshing Christmas Asian Slaw for a delightful contrast.

Optional: For even more flavor, marinate with garlic and herbs overnight.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly

• Drying the Skin: Ensure the pork skin is fully dried before seasoning; moisture can prevent it from crisping up beautifully.
• Scoring Technique: Score the skin in a grid pattern, but be careful not to cut into the meat to avoid losing juices during roasting.
• Chill for Crackling: For better crackling, prick the skin with a toothpick and place it in the fridge for a couple of hours before cooking.
• Watch the Temperature: Monitor the oven temperature when crisping the skin too high too quickly can burn it, while too low won t give that satisfying crunch.
• Resting Time: Allow the pork belly to rest for about 15 minutes after roasting; this helps retain juices and enhances flavor when slicing.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with tangy sauces like Spiced Plum Sauce to balance the richness of the Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly for an enhanced dining experience.

Storage Tips for Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly

Fridge: Store leftover slow roast 5-spice pork belly in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: If you have leftovers, freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. This helps preserve the juicy meat and crispy skin.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) for 20 minutes or until heated through, allowing the skin to regain its crispiness.

Resting: Before storing, let the pork belly cool completely to room temperature to avoid condensation, which can make the skin soggy.

Variations & Substitutions for Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and tailor it to your tasting preferences or dietary needs.

• Spice Swap: Change the five-spice to your favorite blend like Italian herbs or a spicy BBQ rub for a twist.
• Sweet Touch: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to the spice rub for a touch of natural sweetness and caramelization.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange or lime zest into the rub for a refreshing citrus note that brightens the rich pork.
• Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to add a delightful earthy aroma that complements the meat beautifully.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar in the sauce brings tartness that cuts through the richness, enhancing flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients and any accompanying sauces (like the Spiced Plum Sauce) are gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
• Reduce Fat: Opt for a thinner cut of pork or remove some fat for a lighter version without losing too much flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add red chili flakes or a touch of Sriracha to the rub for those who crave a bit of heat alongside the sweet and savory notes.

Explore these variations to make the dish your own each option will bring a unique spice and flair to your festive gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly preparations are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing quality! You can prepare the pork belly by scoring the skin and applying the 5-spice rub up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps of patting the skin dry, rubbing the spices generously over the meat side, and pressing salt into the scored skin before refrigerating it uncovered overnight. This enables the flavors to deeply infuse while ensuring optimal crackling. On the day you plan to serve, just roast the pork as directed, and enjoy the warm, savory satisfaction with minimal last-minute fuss!

What to Serve with Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly?

Looking to create a memorable meal that dazzles with flavor and texture? Here are some delightful pairings that will elevate your dining experience.

• Spiced Plum Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that cuts through the richness of the pork, adding a refreshing burst of flavor.
• Christmas Asian Slaw: Crunchy and vibrant, this slaw blends fresh vegetables with a zesty dressing, providing a crisp contrast to the tender pork belly.
• Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized carrots and parsnips add a hint of sweetness while complementing the savory notes of the pork.
• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky mashed potatoes create a comforting base, perfect for soaking up any delicious drippings from the pork.
• Honey-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These tender sprouts deliver a delightful balance of sweetness and earthiness, harmonizing beautifully with the rich pork.
• Chilled Riesling: A glass of this slightly sweet white wine pairs exceptionally well, enhancing the aromatic spices and refreshing your palate.

Create a full dining experience with these accompanying dishes, ensuring your meal is as unforgettable as the Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly itself!

Slow Roast 5-Spice Pork Belly Recipe FAQs

What type of pork belly is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, always use skin-on pork belly. Look for a cut that has a good balance of meat and fat. The fat content helps keep the pork tender and juicy during the slow roasting process, while the skin ensures you get that delicious crackling texture that makes this dish so irresistible!

How should I store leftover slow roast 5-spice pork belly?
Leftover slow roast 5-spice pork belly should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its juicy texture and flavor. If you have quite a bit left, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap first, then placing it in a container to prevent any moisture loss.

Can I freeze slow roast 5-spice pork belly? How?
Yes, you can freeze it! To preserve both the juicy meat and crispy skin, first slice the pork belly into portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat in the oven for best results!

What if my crackling skin isn t crispy enough?
Very! If you find your crackling skin isn t as crispy as you hoped, there are a few tricks you can try. First, ensure that the skin is thoroughly dried before you roast moisture is the enemy of crackling! If it s still not crispy after roasting, you can broil it on high for just a few minutes, but watch it closely to avoid burning.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes! If you re cooking for someone with certain dietary restrictions or allergies, it s important to note that this dish contains pork and potentially cross-reactive spices that may affect those with allergies. Always check the labels on your spices and consider any personal allergies. For those following a low-carb or keto diet, this dish is a great option since it s high in fat and low in carbohydrates.

What kind of spices can I substitute if I don t have Chinese 5-spice?
If you don t have Chinese 5-spice handy, you can definitely create your own blend! Mix equal parts of ground star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and ginger. This homemade spice mix brings a lovely complexity to the pork belly, providing those signature aromatic flavors.