Crispy Pork Belly

Siu Yuk, or Crispy Pork Belly, is a beloved Cantonese roast meat dish featuring a slab of pork belly with a perfectly crackled, golden-brown skin. The meat is typically marinated with five-spice powder, salt, and sugar before being roasted at a high temperature to achieve its signature contrast between the shatteringly crisp skin and the tender, juicy meat beneath. It is a staple in Cantonese barbecue shops and a celebratory dish during festivals like Lunar New Year.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in fat and protein, providing a substantial amount of calories—roughly 400-600 per serving depending on the cut and portion size. It is a good source of B vitamins (especially B12), zinc, and selenium, but the high fat content, particularly from the skin, means it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	520 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbs	4 g
Fat	44 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	0.5 g
Sodium	650 mg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)	0.5 mg
Vitamin B6	0.4 mg
Vitamin B12	1.2 µg
Niacin (B3)	7 mg
Iron	1.5 mg
Zinc	4 mg
Phosphorus	250 mg
Selenium	35 µg

Per 1 serving (150 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The culinary magic of Siu Yuk lies in the technique of pricking the skin and applying vinegar or baking soda to draw out moisture, ensuring it puffs into a light, airy crackle during roasting. Nutritionally, while rich in saturated fat, the dish's high protein content and mineral profile make it a dense source of energy, reflecting its role in traditional feasts meant to provide sustenance and celebration.