Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this cabbage pork belly will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Tender and crispy. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pork belly.
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Budget-friendly. Pork belly and cabbage are inexpensive.
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Perfect for special occasions and family dinners.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
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2 to 2 1/2 pounds pork belly, skin removed if attached, cut into 1 1/2-inch thick slabs
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1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds), cored and thickly sliced into wedges or ribbons
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2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste)
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1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (plus more to taste)
Ingredient Notes
Pork belly: Use pork belly. Remove the skin if attached. Cut it into thick slabs.
Cabbage: Use a medium head of green cabbage. Core and slice it into wedges or ribbons.
Salt and pepper: Season the pork generously.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Cabbage
Remove any tough or wilted outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage into thick wedges or wide ribbons, removing the core.
Step 2: Season the Pork Belly
Pat the pork belly slabs dry with paper towels. Sprinkle them all over with the kosher salt and black pepper, rubbing it in so the seasoning sticks.
Step 3: Layer the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced cabbage in an even layer in the bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Lay the seasoned pork belly slabs in a single layer on top of the cabbage.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until the pork belly is very tender and the cabbage is soft and wilted.
Step 5: Crisp the Edges (Optional)
Carefully lift the cooked pork belly slabs out of the slow cooker and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet. Spoon a little of the rendered fat over the top. Broil on the top rack for 3 to 6 minutes, until the edges are browned and crisp.
Step 6: Finish the Cabbage
Toss the cabbage in the slow cooker with the pan drippings so every leaf is coated. Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer a bed of cabbage to a serving plate. Top with the crispy pork belly slabs. Spoon a little extra slow cooker juice over everything.
How to Serve Cabbage Pork Belly
This rich, savory dish is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With Mashed Potatoes: The juices are perfect over creamy potatoes.
With Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the sauce.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the juices.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Pork Shoulder: Use pork shoulder instead of pork belly.
Make It with Red Cabbage: Use red cabbage for a different color.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Onion: Add sliced onion.
Make It with Carrots: Add sliced carrots.
Make It with Apples: Add sliced apples.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or rosemary.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Pat the pork belly dry. This helps the seasoning stick.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Broil the pork for crispy edges. This step is optional but highly recommended.
Let the pork rest before serving. This keeps it tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork shoulder or pork chops can be used.
Can I use a different cabbage?
Yes. Red cabbage can be used.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Yes. Garlic powder or onion powder can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my pork belly tough?
It did not cook long enough. Cook until tender.
Why is my cabbage watery?
The cabbage released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add carrots or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
The Beauty of Simple Pork Dishes
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, tender pork dish that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This cabbage pork belly is a celebration of all those things.
Keep pork belly in your freezer. Keep cabbage in your fridge. Keep salt and pepper in your kitchen. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 to 8 hours on LOW or 4 to 5 hours on HIGH
Broil Time: 3 to 6 minutes (optional)
Total Time: Approximately 7 to 8 hours
Yield: 4 servings