Low Fat Lechon Kawali
Indulge in all the crispy, golden perfection of traditional lechon kawali with a healthier twist in this "Low Fat Lechon Kawali" recipe! Using a lean cut of pork belly and an oven-roasting technique instead of deep-frying, this dish delivers the same satisfying crunch and juicy tenderness with a fraction of the grease. The pork is simmered in an aromatic blend of garlic, bay leaves, soy sauce, and vinegar, infusing every bite with bold Filipino flavors, before being roasted to bring out that signature crispy skin. Perfectly paired with a squeeze of calamansi or lemon for a zesty finish, this lighter take on a Filipino classic is easy to prepare and guilt-free to enjoy. Ideal for family meals or special occasions, this healthier version doesn’t sacrifice taste!
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Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly, lean cut
- 2 pieces bay leaves
- 4 pieces garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cups water
- 1 as needed vegetable oil spray
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 as needed calamansi or lemon, sliced
Directions
Step 1
Place the pork belly in a large pot and add the water, bay leaves, garlic, black peppercorns, soy sauce, vinegar, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
Step 2
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 60 minutes or until the pork is tender but not falling apart. Check occasionally and add more water if needed to keep the pork submerged.
Step 3
Remove the pork from the pot and let it rest on a wire rack to cool and drain. Pat the surface dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Step 4
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 5
Once cooled, spray the pork belly with a thin layer of vegetable oil spray.
Step 6
Place the pork belly on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, skin side up.
Step 7
Roast in the oven for about 20-30 minutes or until the skin is crisp and bubbly.
Step 8
Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 9
Serve with calamansi or lemon slices on the side for a fresh drizzle before eating.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (1527.3g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1195.0 |
| Total Fat 91.3g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 31.8g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g | |
| Cholesterol 317.5mg | 0% |
| Sodium 3864.9mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 11.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 2.2g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 1.0g | |
| Protein 81.5g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 160.6mg | 0% |
| Iron 5.1mg | 0% |
| Potassium 1400.5mg | 0% |
Source of Calories