This Slow-Roasted Pork Belly with Cannellini Beans offers a delightful combination of tender, flavorful pork paired with hearty beans. The slow-roasting process ensures the meat is juicy and succulent, making it an ideal centerpiece for a special occasion like Mother’s Day.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) pork belly, skin scored
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 can (400g) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 500 ml (2 cups) chicken stock
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels, ensuring the skin is as dry as possible. Rub olive oil over the meat, and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Meat: Heat a large ovenproof frying pan over medium-high heat. Place the pork belly skin-side down and sear for 4-5 minutes until the skin is lightly browned. Turn the pork over and sear the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Aromatics: Remove the pork from the pan and set aside. In the same pan, add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until softened.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the pork belly to the pan, placing it on top of the sautéed vegetables. Add the cannellini beans around the pork. Pour the chicken stock over the ingredients, ensuring the liquid comes halfway up the sides of the pork. Sprinkle dried thyme over the beans.
5. Roast: Cover the pan with a lid or foil and place it in the preheated oven. Roast for 2 hours.
6. Crisp the Skin: After 2 hours, remove the cover and increase the oven temperature to 220°C (430°F). Roast for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the meat is tender.
7. Rest and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and let the pork rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve slices of the pork belly over the cannellini beans and vegetables. Spoon some of the pan juices over the top for added flavor.

Nutritional Information 

• Calories: 650 kcal
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sodium: 800mg

Cooking Method and Technique

This dish employs the slow-roasting method, which is a culinary technique perfect for tougher or fattier cuts of meat like pork belly. By cooking the meat at a low temperature over an extended period, the fat has time to render slowly, infusing the meat with moisture and flavor. This method results in a tender interior and sets the stage for achieving that signature crispy pork skin during the final high-heat blast.

Texture and Mouthfeel

The texture of this dish is one of its standout features. The pork belly becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender due to the prolonged roasting, while the skin develops a contrasting crispiness that adds excitement to every bite. The cannellini beans offer a creamy, hearty base that soaks up the flavorful juices from the meat and vegetables, rounding out the dish with a smooth, almost buttery texture.

Flavor Profile

This recipe delivers a deeply savory and aromatic flavor profile. The pork belly brings rich, meaty umami notes, while the vegetables—onion, garlic, carrot, and celery—add a gentle sweetness and earthy depth. The chicken stock enhances the savory base, and the thyme brings a subtle herbal fragrance that elevates the entire dish without overwhelming the palate.

Pairing Suggestions

Slow-Roasted Pork Belly with Cannellini Beans pairs beautifully with a range of sides and beverages. Creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed greens like kale or spinach, or a crisp apple slaw can balance the richness of the meat. For drinks, a dry white wine such as Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the dish, while a cider or craft beer with a malty backbone also works well.

Occasion Suitability

This dish is well-suited for special occasions such as family dinners, holidays, or celebrations like Mother’s Day. Its luxurious mouthfeel and elegant presentation make it a showstopper on the dinner table. However, it’s also comforting enough to be a weekend treat for those who love slow-cooked meals.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare parts of this recipe in advance to save time. The vegetables can be chopped and stored in the fridge a day ahead, and the pork belly can be scored and seasoned the night before. For best results, allow the meat to sit uncovered in the refrigerator overnight to dry out the skin, which will help it crisp up beautifully during roasting.

Storage and Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The pork can be reheated in the oven to help retain some of its crispness, while the beans and vegetables can be gently warmed on the stovetop. This dish also freezes well, particularly if you separate the pork belly and beans for optimal texture upon reheating.

Nutritional Balance

Although the pork belly is rich and fatty, the presence of cannellini beans and vegetables adds a measure of balance. The beans provide fiber and plant-based protein, while the vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals. This dish is filling and nutritious when portioned sensibly and paired with a light side dish.

Cultural and Historical Background

Pork belly has deep roots in many global cuisines, from Chinese to Italian to British. This particular dish takes cues from rustic European cooking, especially Italian and French traditions where beans and pork are commonly combined. The use of cannellini beans speaks to a Mediterranean influence, while the slow-roasting technique is a time-honored method used in farmhouse kitchens across Europe.

Ingredient Quality

Using high-quality ingredients is essential to the success of this dish. A well-sourced pork belly with a good meat-to-fat ratio will yield the best results. Fresh, organic vegetables and a robust, low-sodium chicken stock will also enhance the natural flavors. If possible, use freshly dried thyme or high-quality dried herbs to boost aroma and depth.

Adaptations and Variations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit different dietary preferences or pantry limitations. For example, you can substitute the cannellini beans with butter beans or even chickpeas. Adding a splash of white wine to the stock can offer an extra layer of flavor. You can also introduce spices like smoked paprika or fennel seeds to customize the seasoning.

Cooking Equipment Needed

To make this recipe, you’ll need a large ovenproof frying pan or Dutch oven, a sharp knife for scoring the pork skin, and basic kitchen utensils. A meat thermometer is also helpful to ensure the pork is cooked to the desired internal temperature. If you want extra crispy skin, a final broil under the grill can be used cautiously.

Time Investment

While this dish requires a longer cooking time—approximately 2.5 to 3 hours—most of that time is hands-off. This makes it perfect for a lazy weekend or when entertaining guests, as you can prepare other parts of the meal while the pork roasts. The payoff in flavor and texture is well worth the time commitment.

Cooking for a Crowd

This recipe scales well for larger gatherings. Simply double the quantities and use a larger roasting pan. Make sure the pork belly is not overcrowded to allow even cooking and proper skin crisping. Allow for adequate resting time before slicing and serving to retain juices and enhance tenderness.

Plating and Presentation

For an elegant presentation, slice the pork belly into neat portions and arrange them over a bed of cannellini beans and vegetables. Spoon a bit of the reduced pan sauce on top and garnish with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of sea salt. The contrast of crispy skin, tender meat, and creamy beans makes for an attractive and appetizing plate.

Sustainability and Sourcing

Choosing responsibly sourced pork and organic produce contributes to more sustainable cooking. Look for local farms or butchers that practice humane animal husbandry. Supporting these businesses often means better quality meat and a smaller environmental footprint, aligning your kitchen practices with eco-conscious values.

Health Considerations

Due to the richness of pork belly, this dish is best enjoyed in moderation. You can balance its indulgent nature by serving smaller portions alongside a light salad or steamed vegetables. Those watching sodium or fat intake may want to adjust the seasoning or trim excess fat from the pork before cooking.

Family-Friendly Aspects

Despite its gourmet appeal, this recipe is surprisingly family-friendly. The savory flavors are appealing to a wide range of palates, and kids especially enjoy the crispy pork skin. Because it’s a one-pan meal, cleanup is relatively simple, which adds to its practicality for family dinners.

Seasonal Flexibility

While this dish feels especially appropriate for cooler months due to its hearty nature, it can be adapted for year-round enjoyment. In spring or summer, pair it with a citrusy salad or grilled vegetables. In fall and winter, serve it with roasted root vegetables or a creamy parsnip purée.

Conclusion

Slow-Roasted Pork Belly with Cannellini Beans is a dish that masterfully combines simplicity and sophistication. It highlights the beauty of slow cooking and the depth of flavor that can be coaxed from humble ingredients. With its rich textures, comforting flavors, and versatile nature, it’s a recipe worth adding to any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you’re preparing a festive meal or a Sunday supper, this dish delivers both visual impact and palate-pleasing results that will leave a lasting impression.