Pork Belly FAQ’s
Where can I find pork belly?
Lots of grocery stores and every butcher I’ve ever asked carries pork belly. Chains such as Costco, Sams Club are a good bet. Keep in mind when ordering you don’t need any fancy pork belly like kurobuta or berkshire. In my experience pork belly usually ranges from $3.00 – $7.00 per pound. When you see kurobuta or berkshire you’ll generally see them costing 2-3x this much.
Does it matter if the pork belly I use has skin on it?
Nope. Skin on or off, both work great. If you have skin on just slice it off after you cook the belly and before you slice it.
What kind of Wood should I use?
Yes! We like cherry and/or apple wood, but you can use whatever you prefer. These woods tend to lend a lighter smoke flavor. For heavier smoke try hickory
Is pork belly just slab bacon before it is smoked/cured?
Yes
Three Little Pig’s “Pork Belly Burn’t Ends” Recipe
Fireup the Smoker to 250 degrees using Lump charcoal. Rub the Pork belly down with a heavy coat of Three Little Pig’s Touch of Cherry Rub to create the crust. Place the pork belly on the smoker and add your favorite smoking wood, I used wild cherry for this cook. Smoke the pork belly to 200 degrees internal, usually about 6-7 hours at 250 degrees.
Once the Pork Belly had been removed from the smoker allow to cool for ½ hour. Cut against the grain in about 1 inch slices, then cut the slices into the desired cube size to fit your need. Place the cubes in a hot skillet and add a little butter and Three Little Pig’s Competition BBQ Sauce and sauté until hot. Serve on a large piece of Texas Toast with a side of slaw and beans.
Chris Marks (CBBQE) Chief BBQ Expert Three Little Pig’s Rubs & Sauces
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