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There’s something undeniably satisfying about the moment you open your grill and are greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of smoked goodness. I stumbled upon this recipe for Smoked Pork Belly Strips during a weekend get-together with friends, where I was determined to outshine my usual party platter. The crispy, caramelized exterior and tender, juicy meat of this dish make it the star of any meal, whether it’s a casual Friday night dinner or the centerpiece at a weekend barbecue.

What I love most? This recipe balances ease and flavor perfectly, requiring minimal prep while delivering big on taste. Imagine the crackling sound as you sear the strips to golden perfection just before serving—pure magic! Plus, these pork belly strips are so versatile; they can elevate your brunch, star in a sandwich, or simply shine on their own with a side of tangy slaw.

Get ready to impress your guests and make fast food seem like a thing of the past. Let’s dive into how you can bring this smoky delight to your table!

Why are Smoked Pork Belly Strips a must-try?

Bold flavors: The rich, smoky taste will take your taste buds on a journey unlike any fast food can offer.

Easy prep: With just minimal hands-on time, you’ll have delicious, mouthwatering strips ready for any occasion.

Versatile dish: Serve them solo, mix them in salads, or pile them on a bun—these strips do it all!

Impressive crunch: The final sear creates a delightful crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy interior.

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, your friends and family will be raving about your pork belly mastery long after the grill has cooled.

Smoked Pork Belly Strips Ingredients

Get ready to create magic with these smoky flavors!

For the Pork
• Pork belly – 2.4 lb, this is the star of the show, bringing that rich, flavorful meat to life.
• Kosher salt – 3 tbsp, use to enhance the flavor and draw moisture out for a better texture.

For the Seasoning
• BBQ rub – 1/2 cup, choose your favorite blend to infuse the smoked pork belly strips with irresistible flavors.

These ingredients are your stepping stones to unlocking a delightful smoky feast that beats fast food any day!

How to Make Smoked Pork Belly Strips

Prepare the Pork: Pat the pork belly dry using paper towels, and carefully remove the skin. Cut the belly into even strips, each about 2 inches thick, for even cooking.
Salt the Pork: Generously apply kosher salt to the surface of the pork belly strips. Allow them to rest uncovered in the fridge for 1 hour, enabling the salt to draw out moisture, enhancing the flavor.
Wipe Off Excess Salt: After the hour is up, wipe off any excess salt using a paper towel, ensuring that the pork belly strips are well-prepared for the rub.
Add BBQ Rub: Coat both sides of the pork belly strips with your chosen BBQ rub. Allow them to dry brine for at least 2 hours, or for the best flavor, overnight in the refrigerator.
Heat the Grill: Load your pellet grill with wood pellets, set the temperature to 225°F, and wait patiently until it reaches the desired temperature and smoke starts rolling out.
Smoke the Pork: Carefully place the seasoned pork belly slices evenly on the smoker grates. This is where the magic of smokiness begins!
Monitor Temperature: Insert temperature probes into the thickest part of the pork belly strips. Keep an eye on them until they reach an internal temperature of 205°F, usually taking about 90 minutes.
Sear for Crispy Goodness: If you’re serving immediately, sear the smoked strips on high heat in a skillet or griddle for a few minutes until the exterior is crispy and golden brown, then serve warm.
Chill and Reheat: If you’re preparing for later, refrigerate the smoked strips after cooking and sear them in a skillet or griddle on high heat just before serving for that desired crispy crackling.

Optional: Serve with a drizzle of your favorite barbecue sauce for extra flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Smoked Pork Belly Strips Pairings

Let your imagination run wild as you explore delightful accompaniments for these flavor-packed strips!

Tangy Slaw: A crisp, vinegar-based slaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork belly.
BBQ Sauce: Drizzle your favorite barbecue sauce over the strips for an extra layer of flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Serve with seasoned potato wedges that bake up crunchy, perfectly complementing the meaty goodness of the smoked strips.
Pickled Veggies: Bright and tangy pickled onions or jalapeños can cut through the richness, adding a delightful zing to every bite.
Soft Tortillas: Load these smoked strips into warm tortillas, topped with fresh cilantro and diced onions for a mouthwatering taco night.
Savory Baked Beans: Enjoy the smoky richness of pork belly alongside a hearty side of sweet and savory baked beans—they’re a match made in flavor heaven!
Grilled Corn: Charred corn on the cob brushed with garlic butter adds a sweet and smoky touch to your meal, rounding out the experience beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Oven-roasted sprouts with a drizzle of balsamic glaze offer a nutritious side that pairs surprisingly well with the lush and juicy pork.

With these tasty combinations, you’ll create a memorable feast that showcases the smoky indulgence of your pork belly strips!

How to Store and Freeze Smoked Pork Belly Strips

Fridge: Keep your smoked pork belly strips in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and full of flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the smoked strips tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing their smoky goodness.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then sear in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes to revive that crispy texture. Enjoy those delicious smoked pork belly strips again!

Expert Tips for Smoked Pork Belly Strips

• Choose Quality Meat: Look for fresh, high-quality pork belly with good marbling. This will enhance the flavor and tenderness of your smoked pork belly strips.

• Don’t Rush the Dry Brine: Allowing the pork belly strips to sit with the kosher salt and BBQ rub for at least 2 hours is key. If possible, let them brine overnight for deeper flavor absorption.

• Monitor Your Grill’s Temperature: Consistency is crucial; keep the smoker at 225°F to ensure even cooking. Fluctuating temperatures can result in unevenly cooked pork belly.

• Check Internal Temperature: Use a reliable meat thermometer. Remove the smoked pork belly strips from the grill once they reach 205°F for optimal tenderness—overcooking can lead to dryness.

• Sear Just Before Serving: To achieve that coveted crispy crackling, always sear the strips on high heat right before serving. This ensures maximum crunch without compromising juiciness.

Make Ahead Options

These Smoked Pork Belly Strips are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can seasoning the pork belly and let it dry brine for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen beautifully. Simply apply the kosher salt and BBQ rub as instructed and refrigerate until ready to smoke. After cooking, if you’re not serving immediately, refrigerate the strips and simply reheat and sear them in a skillet just before serving for the same delicious, crispy texture. This way, you’ll enjoy tender, smoky pork belly strips without the last-minute rush, making your mealtime effortless and enjoyable!

What to Serve with Smoked Pork Belly Strips?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement the rich, smoky flavors of the pork.

Tangy Coleslaw: The crunch and acidity of coleslaw balance the richness of the pork belly, adding a refreshing bite. It’s a classic side that brings color to your plate.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These velvety potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the crispy pork. Enhanced by a hint of garlic, they soak up all those incredible juices!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky from the grill, corn adds a seasonal touch that enlivens your meal. Slather it with butter for an indulgent treat that pairs beautifully.
Spicy Pickles: The tangy heat of pickles cuts through the richness of the pork, offering a zesty contrast that tingles the taste buds. They’re the perfect pop of flavor!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized and slightly sweet, these sprouts add a delightful crunch to your meal. Their earthiness complements the smokiness of the pork beautifully.
BBQ Baked Beans: Rich and sweet, baked beans are a hearty side that enhance that BBQ flavor profile. Their creaminess pairs perfectly with the crispy texture of the pork belly.
Crispy Onion Rings: Golden and crunchy, these onion rings lend an indulgent touch to your meal. They’re fun to munch on and wonderful for dipping in BBQ sauce!
Classic Mac and Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, this comfort food favorite is always a hit. Its richness pairs well with the smoky pork belly for a cozy, indulgent meal.
Red Wine: A bold red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the flavors of the smoky pork. Sipping it alongside your meal brings depth and richness to each bite.
Chocolate Brownies: For dessert, fudgy brownies add a sweet ending to your meal. Their dense texture fuses perfectly with the earlier savory flavors for a satisfying finish.

Smoked Pork Belly Strips Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect pork belly?
Absolutely! Look for a pork belly that has a good balance of meat and fat. The ideal choice has a creamy appearance without dark spots or blemishes. Freshness is key; the meat should be bright pink and firm to the touch.

What’s the best way to store leftover smoked pork belly strips?
Very! Keep your smoked pork belly strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to 3 months. Just remember to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze smoked pork belly strips?
Yes! For freezing, wrap each strip individually in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date, and they can last up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then sear in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes to bring back the crispy texture.

What if my pork belly strips aren’t crispy enough after smoking?
Sometimes, that can happen! If you find your smoked pork belly strips aren’t crispy enough, don’t worry. Simply heat a skillet or griddle on high heat and sear the strips for a few minutes on each side to achieve that desirable crunch just before serving.

Are smoked pork belly strips safe for my pets?
No, it’s better to keep them away! While pork itself is safe, the seasoning and salt can be harmful to pets. Always check with your veterinarian about what foods are safe for your furry friends.