As the sun sets over the vast, sun-baked landscapes of Texas, I find myself at one of the state’s most beloved culinary spots: Written by the Seasons. Nestled in the heart of the Lone Star State, this charming restaurant isn’t just a place to eat—it’s an experience, a celebration of the region’s bold flavors and rich traditions.
On a recent trip to this slice of Texas paradise, I had the pleasure of diving into one of their signature dishes: the Chili Glazed Pork Belly. It’s the type of dish that has you licking your fingers and wondering how something so simple could deliver such a deep, complex flavor. Let me walk you through my unforgettable experience.
The Atmosphere
The moment I stepped inside Written by the Seasons, I was enveloped by a warm, rustic ambiance. The restaurant, with its wooden beams and warm lighting, evokes a feeling of comfort. The scent of sizzling meats fills the air, and the chatter of fellow diners creates a sense of community. It’s the perfect blend of casual and refined, with a menu that pays homage to Texas’ rich culinary heritage while incorporating modern twists.
The Dish: Chili Glazed Pork Belly
When the Chili Glazed Pork Belly arrived at my table, I couldn’t help but admire the glossy, caramelized glaze that coated the tender pork. The dish was served with a delicate garnish of fresh cilantro and a light drizzle of chili sauce that promised both heat and depth of flavor. As I took my first bite, the crispy crackling on the outside of the pork belly gave way to an incredibly succulent and juicy interior.
The sweet, spicy glaze lingered on my palate, a perfect balance of rich chili heat and just enough sweetness to round it out. There was a subtle smokiness that I could only assume came from a slow cook, which allowed the pork belly to absorb the perfect amount of seasoning. Each bite was a revelation, with the crispy exterior giving way to the tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat inside.
The dish was served with a side of perfectly roasted vegetables that added a smoky, earthy contrast to the bold pork belly. I couldn’t help but savor each bite as I thought about how this dish beautifully embodies the spirit of Texas—big, bold, and unapologetically full of flavor.
A Culinary Journey
What struck me the most about the Chili Glazed Pork Belly was its authenticity. It wasn’t just the flavors that stood out; it was the way this dish told a story. Every ingredient felt thoughtfully chosen, each layer of flavor carefully constructed to offer something new with every bite. It was clear that Written by the Seasons has mastered the art of slow cooking, taking time to enhance the natural richness of the pork belly.
For anyone visiting Texas, this dish is a must-try. It’s an excellent reflection of the state’s culinary diversity and commitment to high-quality, homegrown ingredients. Whether you’re a foodie on a journey for the next great dish or a local looking for something new, this Chili Glazed Pork Belly will not disappoint.
Homemade Chili Glazed Pork Belly Recipe
Inspired by the mouthwatering Chili Glazed Pork Belly I tried at Written by the Seasons, I couldn’t resist recreating this dish in my own kitchen. While there’s something special about enjoying it in the heart of Texas, this recipe brings a little taste of the Lone Star State right into your home. Follow along with this step-by-step guide to make your own succulent, chili-glazed pork belly.
Savory Garlic Chili Pork Belly
Dive into the rich flavors of our Savory Garlic Chili Pork Belly! This dish features melt-in-your-mouth pork belly infused with a tantalizing garlic and chili glaze, perfect for any meal. Inspired by top culinary experts, it’s simple to prepare yet packed with bold, delicious flavors that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe promises satisfaction and a burst of lemongrass aroma in every bite. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this irresistible pork belly masterpiece!
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Ingredients
- Pork and Stock
2.2 lbs pork belly trimmed and cut into finger-length slices
4 cups hot chicken or vegetable broth
1 inch fresh ginger peeled and finely diced
3 cloves garlic peeled and halved
1 tbsp Shaoxing or rice wine
1 tbsp granulated sugar
- Alternative Ingredients:
Pork Belly: Substitute with pork shoulder for a leaner option.
Chicken/Veg Stock: Use water with bouillon cubes if stock is unavailable.
Shaoxing/Rice Wine: Replace with dry sherry or mirin.
Granulated Sugar: Use brown sugar or maple syrup as a sweetener.
Canola Oil: Substitute with vegetable oil or avocado oil.
Red Chili: Use jalapeño or serrano for less heat.
Lemongrass: Replace with lemon zest or lime zest if unavailable.
Directions
- Prepare the Pork: In a large pot, combine the pork belly, chicken or vegetable broth, diced ginger, halved garlic cloves, rice wine, and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 2 hours until the pork becomes tender and flavorful.
- Drain and Reserve: After simmering, turn off the heat and carefully drain the pork belly pieces using a colander. If desired, save the cooking liquid to use as a base for a Thai or Chinese noodle soup, adding an extra layer of flavor to another meal.
- Chop the Pork: Once drained, cut the pork belly into bite-sized chunks for easier handling and even glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the remaining glaze ingredients: canola oil, salt, pepper, minced ginger, sliced red chili, honey, brown sugar, soy sauce, and chopped lemongrass. Stir until well combined.
- Cook the Pork with Glaze: Heat a frying pan over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Introduce the chopped pork pieces to the pan, seasoning with additional salt and pepper. Sauté the pork until it begins to turn golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes. Pour the prepared glaze over the pork, stirring continuously to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Continue to cook until the glaze becomes dark and sticky, forming a delectable caramelized coating on the pork.
- Serve: Remove the pan from heat and transfer the glazed pork belly to a serving dish. Accompany with steamed rice and your choice of green vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- frying pan
- saucepan
- lid
- measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing Bowls
- colander
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 750kcal
- Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 1500mg
- Potassium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 35g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 3mg
