Chinese crispy pork belly
Siu Yuk, or Chinese crispy pork belly, is a classic Cantonese dish featuring a slab of pork belly with a shatteringly crisp, bubbly skin and tender, flavorful meat. The preparation involves marinating the meat with a blend of spices like five-spice powder and salt, then meticulously drying the skin and roasting it at high heat to achieve the signature crackling. It is a staple of Cantonese cuisine, often served as a main dish or part of a festive meal.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is very high in fat and protein, with negligible carbohydrates. A typical serving provides a significant amount of energy, along with key nutrients like thiamine (Vitamin B1), selenium, and zinc from the pork. The calorie count is substantial, largely due to the generous fat content in the belly cut.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbs | 1 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.6 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5.2 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.8 mcg |
| Selenium | 24 mcg |
| Zinc | 2.8 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Potassium | 280 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
Per 3 oz (85 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The culinary technique to achieve the perfect 'glass-like' skin is a point of pride and skill, often involving pricking the skin and using a vinegar or baking soda rub to draw out moisture. Nutritionally, while calorie-dense, pork belly is a rich source of complete protein and certain B vitamins essential for energy metabolism.
