Honey Crispy Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps with Raw Garlic

Today, we will make “Honey Crispy Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps with Raw Garlic”! This super simple and delicious dish is inspired by my recent dish, “Air Fryer Pork Belly Strips – BBQ Inspired.” I am using the exact same ingredients for this dish. Isn’t it amazing? 

By using the same ingredients, you can create an entirely new dish with a unique flavor profile. Suppose you have some leftover meat that you want to use for lettuce wraps. In that case, I suggest you follow this recipe instead, “Stir Fry Leftover Crispy Pork Belly.” The meat will be equally crispy.

Experience the Multi-Layered Flavor: Honey Crispy Pork Belly Lettuce Wrap with Raw Honey

This dish combines the crispiness and tenderness of pork belly slices with the sweetness of the honey. In addition to that, add the spiciness and pungentness of the raw garlic, plus the crunchiness of the lettuce. What makes them so unique is the ingredients(pork, honey, raw garlic, and lettuce) all have their own unique taste profile. 

You will have a different kind of eatery experience in one bite. The craziest thing is that you can make this super easy dish in 15 minutes. So, let’s waste no time and discover the magic of these Honey Crispy Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps with Raw Garlic now!

Main ingredients 

• 1 lb (450g) pork belly, sliced into thin strips 
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10-12 large lettuce leaves
• 3 Raw garlic cloves, thinly sliced 
• 2 tablespoon manuka honey
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds

Please note that the above serving proportion is just an approximation. The ratio above should give you a good starting point for the recipe. Feel free to adjust it.

Replacement or Optional Ingredients

• Sesame Seeds: The only optional ingredient is white sesame seeds. I am using it to provide extra crunchiness to the pork belly. Besides, sesame seeds also have that nutty, toasty flavor that can enhance the overall flavor profile. It also makes the dish look more visually appealing. These are just subtle things that you can do to impress your guest. It is totally optional, don’t worry about it.

• Honey: Feel free to swap any honey you have for the manuka honey. Honey and pork belly bring out the best sweet and savory contrast. 

• Pepper: I use black pepper in this crispy meat lettuce wrap recipe. I want it to taste like a Western dish. Using white pepper will make the taste more like an Asian dish. However, this is just my personal preference. Feel free to experience white and black pepper. Both work fine.

What Lettuce to Use for Lettuce Wrap?

Butter lettuce, iceberg lettuce, romaine lettuce, and Bibb lettuce.

1. Butter lettuce: Known for its soft and tender leaves, butter lettuce is a popular choice for lettuce wraps due to its mild and slightly sweet flavor.
   
   

2. Iceberg lettuce: Its crisp and refreshing texture is another suitable option. It provides a satisfying crunch to contrast with the tender meat.
   
   

3. Romaine lettuce: Romaine lettuce is a sturdy variety with slightly bitter leaves. It can add a nice crunch and robust flavor to your wraps.
   
   

4. Bibb lettuce: Bibb lettuce, also known as Boston lettuce, is tender and has a slightly sweet flavor. It works well for wrapping the meat and holding the fillings.
   
   

Can I Use Cabbage Instead of Lettuce for a Wrap?

Yes. Cabbage is too sturdy and firm to wrap the meat and garlic. First, we need to soften the cabbage. You should steam the cabbage at medium heat for 5 minutes. Please bear in mind that the taste and texture of steamed cabbage will differ from lettuce. The texture will not be crunchy. 

Instructions for Assembling the Honey Lettuce Wrap

Preparing the pork belly:

Cut the pork into thin slices, as shown in the picture. It is easier to slice it when it is still half-frozen. 

Seasoning the meat:

Season both sides of belly slices with salt and black pepper.

Cooking the meat:

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
   
   

   
   
   

2. Drizzle a little oil and place the pork belly strips in the pan.
   
   

3. Cook both sides of the meat until crispy golden brown. It should take around 5 – 8 minutes.
   
   

4. Remove the meat from the pan.
   
   

   
   

Preparing the lettuce wraps: 

Wash and separate the lettuce leaves. Pat them dry with a paper towel. 

Assembling the wraps: 

1. Place a slice or two of cooked pork belly on a lettuce leaf.
   
   

2. Add a slice of raw garlic on top of the pork belly.
   
   

3. Drizzle honey over the pork belly. A small amount will do perfectly. Putting too much honey will overpower the flavor of the other ingredients. Watch up for this one.
   
   

4. This step is entirely optional. Add the white sesame seeds on top of the honey so that it will stick to the honey.
   
   

5. Wrap the lettuce leaf around the pork belly and toppings, forming a small bundle or roll. 
   

How to Serve the Lettuce Wraps

There are 3 ways when comes to serve this incredible dish:

1. Present the lettuce wraps on a platter as a main dish.
   
   

2. Serve your guest a couple rolls of wraps as an appetizer.
   
   

3. Put on the ingredients in the middle of dining tables without assembling them. Let your guest or family do the job, so everyone can participate in making these pork belly lettuce wraps. I promise it will be fun and enjoyable. You can also provide disposable gloves for your family members or guests.
   
   

Wrap It Up: Conclusion 

The combination of tender pork belly drizzled with honey in crisp lettuce leaves creates a mouthwatering experience that will leave you wanting more. The addition of raw garlic adds a delightful kick, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Every bite is a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and aromatic goodness that will make you want more. 

These lettuce wraps are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, they make a fantastic meal or appetizer option that will impress you. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and let the magic happen in your kitchen.