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Hairy Bikers Porchetta Recipe

Hairy Bikers Porchetta Recipe

The Hairy Bikers Porchetta Recipe is pure comfort food. It is rich, juicy and full of herbs. If you love crispy pork, this recipe is for you.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Inspired
Servings 8
Calories 620 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 kg pork belly skin on
  • 4 garlic cloves crushed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fennel seeds crushed
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions
  

Prepare the Pork

  • Place the pork belly on a clean board. Pat it dry with paper towels. Dry skin helps create crispy crackling. Score the skin gently with a sharp knife. Do not cut into the meat. This step helps the fat render properly.

Make the Herb Filling

  • In a bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, thyme, fennel seeds, chili flakes, lemon zest, olive oil, salt and pepper. Stir well until combined. The smell will be fresh and strong. This herb mix is the heart of the Hairy Bikers Porchetta Recipe.

Season the Pork

  • Turn the pork belly over. Rub the herb mixture all over the meat side. Press it gently so it sticks well. Make sure every part is covered evenly. This gives deep flavor in every slice.

Roll and Tie

  • Carefully roll the pork belly tightly. Keep the skin on the outside. Tie it securely with kitchen twine. Tie at 2-inch intervals. A tight roll helps it cook evenly and look beautiful.

Rest Before Roasting

  • Place the rolled pork in the fridge for at least one hour. This helps flavors sink in. It also dries the skin more. Dry skin equals crispier crackling. Do not skip this step if possible.

Start Roasting

  • Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Place the pork in a roasting tray. Roast for 30 minutes first. High heat helps start the crackling process. You will hear sizzling sounds.

Slow Cook

  • Lower the oven temperature to 170°C (340°F). Continue roasting for about 2 hours. Use a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 70°C (160°F). Slow cooking keeps the meat tender and juicy.

Rest Before Slicing

  • Remove the porchetta from the oven. Cover loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20 minutes. Resting keeps the juices inside. Then slice into thick rounds and serve.

Notes

  • Always dry the pork skin very well before roasting.
  • Crush fennel seeds for stronger flavor.
  • Add chopped sage for extra depth.
  • Use pork loin inside the belly for a leaner version.
  • If crackling is soft, blast at high heat for 10 minutes.
  • Let the meat rest properly before slicing.
Keyword Hairy Bikers Porchetta Recipe