Lechon Kawali

Lechon Kawali is a very popular Filipino dish made with pork belly simmered until tender. It can be cook into 2 different ways, deep fried or roast in the oven which is the method I used to cook it. This dish usually have a dipping sauces such as Mang Tomas or the better sauce which is Spicy vinegar with soya sauce, fish sauce chilli, onion, garlic and pepper.

Lechon Kawali Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 kg whole pork belly
• 1 head garlic pounded
• 2 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp peppercorns
• 2 pcs bay leaves
• water for boiling
• cooking oil for deep frying

Cooking Instructions

1. In a pot over medium heat, combine pork belly, garlic, salt, peppercorns, bay leaves, and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, skimming scum that floats on top. Lower heat, cover and continue to cook for about 1 to 1-1/2 hours or until meat is tender but not falling apart.
2. Drain pork from liquid, discarding liquid. Wipe the pork dry, removing any stray aromatics. Place on a rack and refrigerate overnight to completely cool and dry.
3. In a deep, heavy-bottomed pot, heat enough oil to completely cover meat to about 350 F to 375 F. Carefully place meat into oil and fry until meat is golden and skin is crisp and puffed. While the meat is frying, regularly sprinkle about 1 tablespoon cold water onto the meat and hot oil every 5 minutes or so.
4. Remove meat from pot and drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Let rest for about 5 minutes and then cut into serving pieces. Serve with lechon sauce or dip of choice.