KETO ROASTED PORK BELLY WITH HERB BUTTER

KETO ROASTED PORK BELLY WITH HERB BUTTER

A succulent, crispy-skinned pork belly infused with fresh herbs and garlic butter – perfect for keto dining.

KEY INFO:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Calories: 850 per serving
• Fat: 72g
• Protein: 45g
• Net Carbs: 2g
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Diet: Keto, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Roasting pan with rack
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer
• Kitchen twine (optional)

INGREDIENTS:

• 2-3 lb (1-1.4 kg) pork belly, skin on
• 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
• 2 tsp coarse salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, minced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced

METHOD:

1. 1. Remove pork from fridge 30 minutes before cooking
   2. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C)
   3. Pat pork belly completely dry with paper towels
   4. Score skin in a crosshatch pattern (1/4 inch deep)

1. 1. Mix softened butter with herbs, garlic, 1 tsp salt, and pepper

1. 1. Rub herb butter all over meat side (not skin)
   2. Rub remaining salt and oil into scored skin
   3. Place pork on rack, skin side up
   4. Roast at 450°F for 30 minutes
   5. Reduce heat to 300°F (150°C) and roast 2 hours

1. Check internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C)
2. Rest for 15 minutes before slicing

CRUCIAL TIPS:

• Dry skin thoroughly for maximum crispiness
• Score skin carefully – don’t cut into meat
• Let butter soften completely before mixing
• Don’t skip the resting period

STORAGE & REHEATING:

• Store in airtight container up to 3 days
• Reheat at 350°F until warm
• Crisp skin under broiler briefly

COMMON MISTAKES:

• Wet skin = chewy crackling
• Skipping room temperature rest
• Cutting too soon after cooking
• Uneven butter mixture

VARIATIONS:

• Add chili flakes for heat
• Switch herbs (oregano/parsley)
• Serve with sugar-free apple sauce
• Add fennel seeds to butter mix

Remember: The key to perfect pork belly is patience and precision with temperatures. Follow each step exactly for restaurant-quality results.