Crispy Lechon Kawali – Best Filipino Deep-Fried Pork Belly with Crunchy Skin

My younger son’s preference for Lechon Kawali from Amber Restaurant is noteworthy and often evokes memories of my own childhood. I recall the anticipation I felt for the crispy, succulent Lechon Kawali that my mother would prepare for special occasions. 

The allure of this particular dish lies in its irresistible combination of texture and flavor, which encourages a continual craving. Achieving the perfect consistency is quite challenging; however, Amber Restaurant remains the sole establishment I have discovered where the chef consistently excels in this regard. 

In light of my son’s fondness for this dish, I have taken it upon myself to master the technique required to replicate the desirable texture after numerous attempts. Should you be interested in learning the recipe to create this delectable dish at home, I invite you to follow my blog for detailed guidance.  

Price and serving options on the Amber’s menu:

What Makes Lechon Kawali Tasty?

The popularity of lechon kawali can be attributed to its distinctive texture. The combination of crunchy, flavorful skin accompanied by moist and juicy meat is unparalleled. Such a sensory experience is memorable and impactful for consumers. To comprehend the nuances of this texture, it is important to examine the factors that contribute to its unique characteristics.

Boiling Process :

The boiling process is crucial for achieving juicy meat. When the meat is boiled with ingredients like peppercorns, garlic, bay leaves, and onions, it absorbs these flavors, resulting in a tender and delicious dish.

Air Drying Meat :

Following the boiling, air drying the meat is an essential step that contributes to the crispiness of the pork belly’s skin. Proper air drying allows the surface of the meat to dry out, which prepares it for the final deep-frying, delivering a satisfying crunch.

Serving with Sauce :

To enhance the experience, serve the crunchy pork belly pieces with the traditional Lechon sauce. This tangy gravy, enriched with pork or chicken liver, is a key component in savoring the authentic taste of Lechon Kawali.

Customization :

For a complete meal, consider pairing your Lechon Kawali with one of Amber’s refreshing beverage options, such as tetra juice, soda, or orange juice. While tetra juice is a popular choice, you can opt for any beverage that suits your preference.

Lechon Kawali Recipe at Home

Key Ingredients :

• 1 ½ pork belly
• 1 garlic (cut in half crosswise)
• 1 medium-sized onion (cut in half crosswise)
• 2 to 3 bay leaves
• 3 cups oil for deep-frying

Spices :

• Half teaspoon salt
• Half teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoon salt (for rubbing)

Serving (Dipping sauce) :

• 1 ¼ pork/chicken liver
• ¾ cup of Vinegar
• 2 ½ cup of water
• ⅔ cup Brown sugar
• ⅔ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• Half cup onion (minced)
• Salt and pepper (as per your taste)
• 2 tbsp cooking oil

Cooking Instructions :

• To prepare Lechon Kawali, begin by selecting a cooking pot and filling it with enough water to fully submerge the pork belly. 
• Next, halve an onion and a few cloves of garlic, adding them to the water along with bay leaves, salt, and peppercorns. Bring this mixture to a boil.
• Before adding the pork belly, ensure that the skin has been thoroughly cleaned to remove any remaining hairs, and rinse it several times. 
• Once the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully place the pork belly into the pot. Allow it to simmer until the meat is tender, which typically takes between 45 to 60 minutes; remember to flip the belly occasionally for even cooking.
• After boiling, remove the pork belly from the pot and set it on a cooling rack to allow it to cool down. 
• Once cooled, rub the skin with salt to help draw out any excess moisture. For optimal results, let the pork belly air dry for up to 3 hours or refrigerate it overnight.
• Once the drying process is complete, heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). Deep-fry the pork belly until the skin is crispy and achieves a golden-brown color. 
• After frying, cut the belly into pieces for serving, and enjoy it with a delicious dipping sauce. 
• For the dipping sauce, heat a pan and add some oil. Sauté minced garlic and chopped onions until fragrant, then add chopped liver and vinegar. Cook this mixture over medium heat for a few minutes. 
• Pour in some water and bring it to a boil, then mix in brown sugar and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
• Incorporate breadcrumbs into the pan, stirring continuously to combine. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, then remove it from heat. 
• Allow the sauce to cool slightly before blending it until smooth. Serve this flavorful dipping sauce alongside your homemade Lechon Kawali for a delightful culinary experience.

Lechon Kawali Allergen Info

Lechon Kawali is a popular Filipino dish known for its crispy, deep-fried pork belly. Typically seasoned with a variety of spices, including salt and pepper, this dish is fried until it reaches a golden-brown perfection. While it may seem straightforward, it’s important to note that Lechon Kawali can contain allergens based on the ingredients used in its seasoning, marinades, and accompanying sauces.

Common Allergens Found in Lechon Kawali:

Soy: Some versions of Lechon Kawali are served with soy sauce-based dipping sauces, which contain both soy and wheat, making them a concern for those with soy allergies.

Gluten: If the pork belly is marinated with soy sauce or fish sauce, it may contain gluten, posing a risk for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Fish: Certain recipes incorporate fish sauce (patis) for additional flavor, which can be problematic for those with fish allergies.

Garlic and Onion: These ingredients are often used in seasoning Lechon Kawali. Individuals who are sensitive to garlic or onion should be aware of their presence.

Tips for Individuals with Allergens:

Request Sauce on the Side: When dining out, it’s helpful to ask for dipping sauces to be served separately to help avoid any allergens.

Consider Coconut Aminos: For those seeking a soy-free option, coconut Aminos serves as a suitable alternative to soy sauce.

Check Marinade Ingredients: If purchasing pre-seasoned pork, it’s advisable to review the ingredient list for any gluten or fish-based seasonings.

Avoid Fish Sauce: For individuals allergic to fish, consider replacing fish sauce with simple salt or umami-rich alternatives such as mushrooms to maintain flavor.

By being informed and cautious, individuals with allergies can still enjoy Lechon Kawali while minimizing their risk of exposure to allergens.

Nutritional Profile of Lechon Kawali 

FAQ’s

Conclusion

You’ve discovered the authentic recipe for Lechon Kawali! Embrace the journey of creating this crunchy, juicy, and flavorful pork belly, and elevate your cooking experience. Share the joy of this delightful dish with your family, and make every bite a celebration of togetherness!