pork belly
Also known as: side pork, bacon belly, samgyeopsal
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Also known as: side pork, bacon belly, samgyeopsal
Per 100g
Nutrition data source: USDA FoodData Central
Common measurement equivalents in grams
Tender, savory-sweet pork belly braised in a rich caramel and fish sauce gravy. This classic Vietnamese comfort food, traditionally cooked in a clay pot, is perfect over a bowl of steamed rice.
A hearty and savory Korean stew made with fermented soybean paste, tender pork belly, tofu, and vegetables. It's a comforting, classic dish that's a staple in Korean homes, perfect with a bowl of steamed rice.
Experience the ultimate crunch with homemade Chicharrones. These golden, crispy morsels of fried pork belly are a Tex-Mex and Latin American treasure. Achieved through a two-step process of simmering until tender and frying until irresistibly puffy, they are perfect for snacking with a squeeze of lime, crumbling over guacamole, or adding a savory crunch to your favorite dishes.
Discover the incredible flavor of bacon made right in your own kitchen. This simple dry-curing process transforms a fresh pork belly into smoky, savory bacon that's miles ahead of anything you can buy at the store. It's a rewarding project for any meat lover.
Pork belly is a rich source of protein and essential B vitamins, selenium, and zinc. However, it is very high in calories and saturated fat, with 100g containing 518 calories and 53g of fat. While it offers some nutritional benefits, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid excessive fat intake.
Per 100 grams, pork belly contains approximately 518 calories, 9.3 grams of protein, and 53 grams of fat. It has virtually no carbohydrates (0g). This makes it a very energy-dense food, primarily due to its high fat content.
Pork belly provides a complete protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It's also rich in B vitamins (B1, B6, B12) vital for energy metabolism and nerve function, and minerals like selenium and zinc, which support antioxidant defense and immune health. Additionally, it contains oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat found in olive oil.
Yes, pork belly is highly keto-friendly and low-carb. It contains 0 grams of carbohydrates and is very high in fat, making it an excellent food choice for those following ketogenic or low-carb diets to meet their fat macros.
Yes, plain, unprocessed pork belly is naturally gluten-free. However, always check labels if purchasing marinated or pre-seasoned pork belly, as some marinades or rubs may contain gluten-containing ingredients.
To achieve crispy skin, pork belly is often slow-roasted or braised, then finished at a higher temperature or pan-fried. Scoring the skin, patting it very dry, and rubbing with salt and a little oil helps render the fat and create a crackling texture.
pork belly is a versatile ingredient found in cuisines around the world. With 518 calories per 100g and 9.3 grams of protein, it's a nutritious addition to many dishes.
Explore more ingredients in the protein category with complete nutrition information.
View all protein →Discover 10 recipes featuring pork belly with step-by-step instructions.
Browse recipes →Pork belly has a rich, savory, and intensely porky flavor with a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture from the rendered fat, often contrasted with a crispy skin. It's commonly used in Asian cuisines for dishes like 'char siu' or 'kakuni,' and in Western cooking for bacon, porchetta, or slow-roasted preparations.
Fresh pork belly should be stored in its original packaging or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or butcher paper in the coldest part of your refrigerator. For longer storage, it can be frozen.
Fresh, raw pork belly can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. If frozen, it can last for 6-12 months. Cooked pork belly should be refrigerated within two hours of cooking and consumed within 3-4 days.
Pork belly is low in carbohydrates, which is beneficial for blood sugar management in diabetics. However, its high fat and calorie content means it should be consumed in moderation, as excessive fat intake can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance.
