The Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends are the perfect blend of smoky, juicy pork belly bites smothered in a rich, tangy cherry bourbon sauce. The smoky essence of the pork combined with the sweet, tart cherry flavor and the subtle warmth of bourbon makes this dish an irresistible BBQ delicacy. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next BBQ or simply indulge in a flavorful treat, these burnt ends will become your go-to recipe for any grilling occasion. This dish is best enjoyed with a cold drink, a sunny day, and a crowd eager to savor something truly delicious.
Full Recipe:
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3 lbs skinless pork belly
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3 tbsp Sweet Preacher BBQ rub
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1 tbsp yellow mustard (binder)
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1 cup cherry juice (spritz)
Cherry Bourbon Sauce:
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1 cup tart cherry juice
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½ cup cherry preserves
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1 cup BBQ sauce
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4 oz bourbon
Directions:
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Preheat the smoker to 250°F, using cherry wood or Sweet BBQ pellets for a sweet smoky flavor.
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Cut the pork belly into 1.5 x 1.5-inch cubes. Coat the cubes with yellow mustard as a binder, then season generously with Sweet Preacher BBQ rub.
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Arrange the seasoned pork belly cubes on a wire rack, fat side down. Place the rack on the smoker and smoke at 250°F for 2 hours.
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Spritz the pork belly with cherry juice every hour to help develop the bark and darken the color.
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Meanwhile, prepare the cherry bourbon sauce: In a saucepan, combine cherry juice, cherry preserves, BBQ sauce, and bourbon. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat.
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After 2 hours, remove the pork belly from the smoker once the internal temperature reaches 170°F. Transfer it to a disposable aluminum pan and pour the sauce over the top. Cover with foil and return the pan to the smoker for an additional hour.
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After 1 hour, uncover the foil and cook for another 15-20 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and become tacky.
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Once the internal temperature reaches 200°F, remove the pork belly from the smoker and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours 30 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal (approx) | Servings: 4-6 servings
History and Origin
The concept of burnt ends comes from Kansas City, where they are famously known as the crispy, flavorful tips of a smoked brisket. These delicious morsels are a prized part of the brisket, offering a satisfying contrast between the smoky exterior and the tender interior. Over time, the term “burnt ends” has been applied to other cuts of meat, including pork belly, as BBQ enthusiasts experiment with different proteins to recreate this beloved BBQ treat.
The addition of cherry bourbon sauce brings a twist to this classic dish. Bourbon, with its deep, woody flavor, is often paired with smoked meats to complement their natural smokiness. The cherry juice and preserves add a delightful sweetness and slight tartness that pairs beautifully with the richness of the pork belly. This fusion of flavors is a modern take on the traditional burnt ends, showcasing the versatility of BBQ flavors and the creativity of today’s home chefs.
While pork belly burnt ends are a relatively new phenomenon in the BBQ world, their rapid rise in popularity can be attributed to the growing trend of exploring new cuts of meat and experimenting with bold, inventive sauces. Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends are now a crowd favorite at BBQ festivals, backyard gatherings, and even in fine dining establishments, where they often feature as a showstopping appetizer.
Variations and Adaptations
While the Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends recipe as written is a fantastic way to enjoy this BBQ dish, there are many ways to personalize it based on your preferences or regional BBQ traditions.
Wood Selection: Traditionally, cherry wood is used to smoke the pork belly in this recipe, but you can easily swap it out for other types of wood, depending on the flavor profile you’re aiming for. Apple wood, for example, imparts a slightly sweeter, milder smoke that pairs well with the cherry bourbon sauce. Oak is another great option if you want a stronger, more robust smoke.
Sauce Variations: The cherry bourbon sauce is where you can get creative. While cherry juice and preserves are central to the sauce, you can experiment by using other fruit preserves such as raspberry or blackberry for a different sweet-tart profile. Additionally, adjusting the amount of bourbon or swapping it out for other liquors, such as rum or brandy, will give the sauce a unique twist. For a more savory take, consider adding a touch of Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the bourbon sauce for a more complex flavor.
Spice Levels: If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the rub or sauce. This creates a wonderful balance between the sweetness of the cherry bourbon sauce and the spiciness of the added heat. Alternatively, for those who prefer a milder version, simply reduce or omit the spices for a more subtle flavor.
Meat Variations: While pork belly is the star of this dish, you can experiment with other cuts of meat that hold up well to smoking. Pork shoulder, ribs, or even beef short ribs can be used in place of the pork belly, each bringing its own unique texture and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends are undeniably indulgent, but they also offer a well-rounded balance of macronutrients, including fats, protein, and carbohydrates. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value:
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving (based on 4 servings for the recipe). The calorie content largely comes from the fat in the pork belly and the sugar from the cherry bourbon sauce.
Protein: Pork belly is a great source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and maintenance. Each serving provides around 20 grams of protein, making it a substantial main dish or appetizer.
Fat: The richness of pork belly means this dish is high in fat, with around 30 grams of fat per serving. While this is considered high, much of the fat in pork belly is monounsaturated fat, which is considered heart-healthy when consumed in moderation.
Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates in this dish primarily come from the cherry preserves and the BBQ sauce. Each serving has about 12 grams of carbs, with a good portion being natural sugars from the cherries.
Micronutrients: This dish provides a good amount of vitamins and minerals. Pork belly contains significant amounts of B vitamins, including B12, which is vital for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. The cherry bourbon sauce provides antioxidants from the tart cherries, which help combat free radicals in the body.
Despite the richness of the dish, it’s best enjoyed in moderation due to its high fat content. It’s an excellent choice for special occasions, where indulgence is part of the fun.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends are ideal for serving at any BBQ or gathering, and they pair well with a variety of sides and beverages.
Sides:
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Coleslaw: A tangy and creamy coleslaw complements the richness of the pork belly while adding a crisp texture.
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Grilled Vegetables: Smoky grilled vegetables like corn on the cob, bell peppers, or zucchini offer a perfect balance to the heaviness of the pork.
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Potato Salad: A classic BBQ side, potato salad is creamy and comforting, making it a great accompaniment to these smoky burnt ends.
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Mac and Cheese: Rich, cheesy mac and cheese adds a satisfying creaminess to balance out the smoky meat.
Drinks:
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Beer: Pair these burnt ends with a cold beer, particularly a light lager or IPA, which will cut through the richness of the pork and complement the smoky flavors.
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Whiskey or Bourbon: Since the sauce contains bourbon, sipping on a neat glass of bourbon or whiskey will enhance the flavors and provide a cohesive tasting experience.
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Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, freshly brewed iced tea, whether sweetened or unsweetened, is a refreshing pairing.
Tips and Tricks for Success
To ensure your Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends turn out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind:
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Low and Slow Smoking: Smoking at a low temperature, around 250°F, allows the pork belly to cook slowly, ensuring that the fat renders properly and the meat becomes tender. Be patient—this isn’t a recipe for rushing.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Since pork belly is quite fatty, using a meat thermometer is essential to avoid undercooking or overcooking. You’ll want to reach an internal temperature of around 200°F for the perfect texture.
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Keep the Pork Belly Fat Side Down: This will help prevent the pork belly from sticking to the wire rack and will allow the fat to melt evenly over the meat, making the texture tender and juicy.
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Baste with Cherry Juice: Spritzing the pork belly with cherry juice throughout the smoking process will help build a beautiful bark and enhance the cherry flavor. Don’t skip this step—it’s key for that deliciously crisp exterior.
Potential Health Benefits
While Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends are more of an indulgent treat than a health food, there are some potential benefits from the ingredients used. Pork belly is a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall body function. The cherries in the sauce also offer antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health. When consumed in moderation, this dish provides valuable nutrients alongside its rich flavors.
Conclusion
Cherry Bourbon Pork Belly Burnt Ends are the ultimate BBQ indulgence, perfect for anyone who enjoys smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. The dish combines the best of both worlds: the tenderness of smoked pork belly and the irresistible tangy sweetness of cherry bourbon sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this recipe offers a fun and flavorful way to bring people together around the grill. So fire up your smoker, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a BBQ dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.