Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends – Hello, food enthusiasts! I’m excited to share with you a recipe that holds a special place, in my heart; Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends. This dish brings together a fusion of flavors and mouthwatering textures making it ideal for any occasion. Featuring pork belly, maple syrup, and velvety bourbon as the key ingredients it promises to please your taste buds.
The first time I prepared these Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends they were an instant hit! I can still recall the aroma wafting through our kitchen drawing my husband and child to the dinner table before I even had a chance to call them. Their eyes sparkled with delight from the bite and ever since then, this dish has become a beloved family favorite. Whether we’re indulging in a weekend treat or celebrating a gathering these burnt ends never fail to leave an impression.
What makes this Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends truly exceptional?
What makes these Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends exceptional is their medley of flavors and textures. The combination of maple syrup and smoky bourbon gives rise to a glaze that beautifully complements the tender pork belly slowly cooked over low heat. Each mouthful presents a contrast, between the outer crust and the succulent inner meat. This delectable dish is more than a delight for your taste buds. It serves as a point that brings out its brilliance whether it’s a cozy family gathering, an energetic BBQ event, or a memorable celebration. Its simplicity, preparation, and exquisite outcome never fail to impress the crowd. Is definitely worth experiencing for any food lover.
What You Need To Make This Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends Recipe?
Pork Belly Magic: The main highlight of this recipe is the pork belly, which serves as the canvas, for our flavor creation. Its luscious layers of fat soak up the marinade and smoke resulting in tender and mouthwatering bites that simply melt in your mouth. To ensure an experience make sure to select a fresh and high-quality cut of pork belly.
Maple Bourbon Seasoning: Now let’s talk about our seasoning; Maple Bourbon. It adds a symphony of smoky notes that beautifully complement the flavors of the pork. However, if you prefer to add your touch feel free to use your pork rub instead.
Brown Sugar and Butter: Moving on to two ingredients; sugar and butter. These elements do more than simply add sweetness; they transform when heated. Together they create a caramelized glaze that envelops each piece of pork with a savory sweet coating.
Oil: We can’t forget about oil—it’s essential for marinating. By using oil we ensure that our seasoning adheres well, to the pork locking in moisture and flavor as it cooks.
BBQ Sauce, Maple Syrup, and Bourbon: Lastly let’s discuss the trio; BBQ sauce, maple syrup, and bourbon. When combined together these three elements create a glaze that’s truly unforgettable. The tangy depth of BBQ sauce perfectly complements the sweetness of maple syrup while bourbon adds a touch of oaky warmth. It goes beyond being a sauce; it’s that finishing touch that takes the dish from delicious, to absolutely heavenly.
Steps To Make Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends:
Step 1: Start by massaging the pork belly with some oil. Sprinkle it generously with your pork rub or Maple Bourbon seasoning. Allow the pork to marinate in the refrigerator for around 1 to 2 hours.
Step 2: Get your smoker ready, by lighting up some Cowboy Charcoal and preheating it to a heat of 250°F. Add Cowboy Hickory Pit Logs, for that flavor.
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Step 3: Smoke the pork belly for 2.5 hours until it absorbs that smokiness.
Step 4: Afterward, transfer the smoked pork belly into an aluminum foil pan. Add a layer of butter and brown sugar on top. Place it back in the smoker. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 205°F, which should take 1.5 hours.
Step 5: In a saucepan combine your BBQ sauce, maple syrup, and bourbon. Simmer this mixture until it thickens slightly. Coat your pork belly with this glaze then increase the heat of the smoker for a caramelization process lasting about 5 to 10 minutes.
Step 6: Perfectly caramelized you can indulge in these Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends.
Tip:
When smoking pork belly it’s essential to resist the urge to rush the process. The secret, to achieving burnt ends lies in a low approach. Maintaining a low temperature of 250°F during the smoking phase ensures that the pork belly cubes absorb smoky flavors deeply and cook evenly. This patient approach pays off in the end result, where each piece of pork belly is infused with a smokiness tender, on the inside and covered in a caramelized crust. Remember, in barbecue, cooking time isn’t a factor—it’s an ingredient!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of BBQ sauce?
Sure you can definitely switch up the BBQ sauce if you prefer something. different. Feel free to use your BBQ sauce to add your personal touch and customize the flavor to your liking.
What can I serve with these burnt ends?
Wondering what goes well with these burnt ends? They go great with coleslaw baked beans or even some grilled veggies of your choice. The combination is simply delightful!
How do I store leftovers?
As, for storing any leftovers simply place them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge. You’ll be happy to know that they still taste delicious when enjoyed the following day!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Ingredients
Pork Belly:
- 2 pounds Pork Belly cubed
- Maple Bourbon Seasoning or your favorite pork rub
- ½ c Brown Sugar
- 6 tablespoons Butter
- Oil as needed
BBQ Sauce:
- ⅓ c Cowboy Prairie Fire BBQ Sauce or your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup
- 2 tablespoons Bourbon
Instructions
- Coat pork belly cubes with oil and Maple Bourbon seasoning. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.
- Heat smoker to 250°F with Cowboy Charcoal. Add pork belly; smoke for 2.5 hours.
- Put pork in a foil pan. Add butter and brown sugar; return to smoker until it reaches 205°F.
- Combine BBQ sauce, maple syrup, and bourbon; simmer until thick.
- Brush pork with sauce. Increase heat; caramelize for 5-10 minutes.
- Serve your Maple Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends hot.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!