Savory Pork Belly with Herb-Infused Rice and Green Beans

This delightful pork belly dish offers a savory and satisfying meal, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The succulent pork is marinated with a flavorful herb spice mix, imparting a rich and aromatic taste. Accompanied by fragrant herb-infused rice and tender green beans, this dish offers a well-rounded dining experience. With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, the pork belly is a true indulgence. The rice and green beans provide a balance of textures and flavors, making every bite delightful. This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring a stress-free cooking session. Whether you're an experienced cook or a beginner, you'll find this recipe both rewarding and delicious. The ingredients are simple and accessible, making it easy to prepare at home. Serve this dish with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

700 g pork belly
1 packet (125 g) rice
400 g green beans (frozen)
1 tbsp butter

Spices:

1 packet of Santa Maria herb spice mix
Salt
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 45 minutes (10 minutes prep, 35 minutes cook)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (about 390°F) to ensure it's hot enough for roasting the pork.
Prepare the Pork: Take the pork belly and thoroughly rub it with the Santa Maria herb spice mix, ensuring it's well coated for maximum flavor.
Roast the Pork: Place the seasoned pork in a roasting bag, then lay it in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Roast in the oven for approximately 30-40 minutes until the pork is cooked through and has a crisp exterior.
Cook the Rice: While the pork is roasting, cook the rice according to the package instructions.
Warm the Green Beans: In a skillet, sauté the thawed green beans over medium heat until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
Combine Rice & Beans: Add the cooked rice to the sautéed green beans. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp of butter. Stir well until the butter melts and integrates into the rice mixture.
Slice the Pork: Once the pork belly is done, remove it from the oven, and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into thin pieces.
Plate Your Dish: Arrange the sliced pork belly on a plate alongside the herb-infused rice and green bean mixture.
Final Touches: Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Tips

Substitution Tip: If Santa Maria herb spice mix is unavailable, use a blend of dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and basil.
Cooking Tip: Letting the pork rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier cut.
Presentation Tip: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Nutrition

Calories: 620
Protein: 40g
Fats: 42g
Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

For a lighter version: Use chicken breast instead of pork.
Vegetarian option: Replace pork with grilled tofu and use vegetable broth to cook the rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a tangy cucumber salad for added freshness.
Pair with a glass of chilled white wine to complement the dish's flavors.

Best Places

Lechon Divino - A culinary paradise offering an exquisite array of pork dishes. Location: 123 Pork Lane, Cebu City, Philippines.

Pork Central Deli - Known for their innovative pork dishes and warm atmosphere. Location: 789 Gourmet Road, Sydney, Australia.

Herb & Spice House - A unique spot with a variety of herb-infused dishes. Location: 456 Flavor Street, London, UK.

Belly Bliss Bistro - Famous for their mouthwatering pork belly creations. Location: 321 Savory Avenue, New York, USA.

Flavor Journey Eatery - Celebrated for its diverse menu and intricate flavors. Location: 654 Taste Blvd, Rome, Italy.

Gourmet Pork Stop - Praised for their hearty and flavorful pork servings. Location: 234 Culinary Crescent, Paris, France.

The Pork Plate - Specializing in expertly cooked pork dishes. Location: 567 Delicious Drive, Cape Town, South Africa.

Rustic Pig Pavilion - Offers a rustic ambiance with delightful pork fare. Location: 111 Grillside Lane, Tokyo, Japan.

Green Bean Grub - Combines fresh ingredients with expert cooking techniques. Location: 888 Organic Way, Vancouver, Canada.

Spicy Bites Cafe - Delivers bold and fiery flavors in every dish. Location: 777 Pepper Lane, Bangkok, Thailand.