Description
This Sweet and Sticky Asian-Style Beef Belly recipe offers tender, flavorful beef belly slow-cooked to perfection in a savory marinade of soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. Finished with a sticky glaze and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, it’s a comforting dish perfect for dinner gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef and Marinade
- 2 pounds beef belly
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, minced ginger, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat. This mixture will give the beef its characteristic sweet and savory Asian flavor.
- Marinate the Beef Belly: Place the 2 pounds of beef belly into a slow cooker or baking dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring it is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate, though marinating overnight is recommended for maximum taste.
- Cook the Beef: If using an oven, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Cook the covered beef belly in the oven for about 3 hours until it becomes tender. If using a slow cooker, set it to low heat and cook for approximately 6 hours until the meat is soft and succulent.
- Make the Glaze and Slice the Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef belly from the cooker or baking dish. Pour the remaining cooking juices into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until the liquid thickens into a sticky glaze. Slice the beef belly into serving pieces and drizzle generously with this glaze.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the sliced beef belly with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added texture and color. Serve hot for a deliciously sweet and sticky Asian-inspired meal.
Notes
- Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness of the beef belly.
- If you prefer less spice, omit the chili flakes.
- To toast sesame seeds, dry fry them in a pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Leftover beef belly can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Serve with steamed rice or stir-fried vegetables to complete the meal.
