
Crispy pork belly, caramelized Brussels sprouts, and a tangy maple glaze — this is the kind of dish that makes people forget they ever had a complicated relationship with vegetables. The pork belly is rendered low and slow in a skillet until golden and crackling, then the drippings become the base for a quick glaze built from pure maple syrup and apple cider vinegar. That glaze clings to every cut-side-down, oven-charred sprout in the most satisfying way. For anyone navigating preservative-free eating, the ingredient list here is refreshingly straightforward — fresh produce, a clean cut of pork, olive oil, and pantry staples with no synthetic additives hiding in the mix. BHA and BHT tend to sneak into processed fats, packaged seasonings, and pre-made sauces, so building the glaze yourself from scratch is exactly the kind of move that keeps this meal clean. A pinch of red pepper flakes at the end adds just enough heat to balance the sweetness without overwhelming the dish. Serve it straight from the pan while everything is still sizzling and glossy — it does not wait well, and honestly, neither will your guests.
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Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the pork belly cubes and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until the fat has rendered and the pieces are golden brown and crisp on most sides. Transfer the pork belly to a plate and pour off all but about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat from the skillet.
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