Crispy pork belly with apple purée and red wine jus, garnished with microgreens.

Delight your guests with this elegant Pork Belly with Apple Purée & Jus recipe. The crispy pork belly is paired with smooth apple purée and a rich red wine jus, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures.


Ingredients

Prepare these ingredients for your dish:

  • 1 kg pork belly (scored)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • 3 apples, peeled and chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup red wine
  • ½ cup chicken stock
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Microgreens (for garnish)
  • Thin apple slices (optional, for garnish)


Step 1: Prepare the Pork Belly

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 220°C (425°F).
  2. Season the Pork Belly: Rub olive oil and sea salt into the scored pork belly skin.
  3. Roast the Pork Belly: Place the pork on a wire rack above a roasting tray and roast for 25 minutes. Lower the temperature to 180°C (350°F) and cook for an additional 90 minutes. Rest before slicing.


Step 2: Make the Apple Purée

  1. Cook the Apples: In a saucepan, add apples, butter, sugar, and a splash of water. Cook over medium heat until soft.
  2. Blend the Purée: Use a blender or immersion blender to process the apples into a smooth purée. Set aside.


Step 3: Prepare the Red Wine Jus

  1. Reduce the Sauce: In a pan, combine red wine, chicken stock, and balsamic vinegar. Simmer until the liquid reduces by half and thickens slightly.


Step 4: Assemble the Dish

  1. Plate the Purée: Spread the apple purée in a circle on each plate.
  2. Add the Pork Belly: Place a slice of crispy pork belly on top of the purée.
  3. Drizzle with Jus: Spoon the red wine jus around the plate.
  4. Garnish: Add microgreens and thin apple slices for an elegant finish.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings a professional touch to your dining table with its impressive presentation and sophisticated flavors:

  • Texture Contrast: The crisp pork belly pairs beautifully with the creamy purée.
  • Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of the apple purée complements the savory richness of the pork and jus.
  • Gourmet Presentation: Perfect for impressing guests or elevating a special occasion.