Appetizers · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card

Sticky Honey Soy Garlic Pork Belly Bites Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Name: Sticky Honey Soy Garlic Pork Belly Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian-American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lb skinless pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp dark soy sauce; 3 tbsp honey; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp rice vinegar; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated; 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds; 2 tbsp scallions, thinly sliced

By Clara Weller · Oct 21, 2026

Sticky honey soy garlic pork belly bites with sesame and scallions in a skillet

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 20 min
Total: 30 min
Serves: 4

Tips for success

For extra crispiness, after searing the pork, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a wire rack while you make the glaze. This keeps the exterior crunchy.

When adding the glaze, return the pork to the pan and toss to coat, letting it simmer for a minute so the glaze thickens and clings.

The glaze can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently before using. If the glaze becomes too thick, thin it with a splash of water or soy sauce. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.

Variations

Spicy Sriracha: Add 1–2 tablespoons of sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the glaze along with the other ingredients. The heat balances the sweetness and adds a nice kick.
Orange Honey: Replace the rice vinegar with fresh orange juice and add 1 teaspoon of orange zest. The citrus brightens the glaze and complements the pork.
Garlic Lovers: Increase the garlic to 6 cloves and add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder to the seasoning mix. This version is extra pungent and savory.
Sesame-Ginger: Stir in 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil and an extra teaspoon of grated ginger. Finish with an extra sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked, cooled pork in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water, stirring until hot and the glaze is glossy again.

Store leftover pork belly bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

The glaze will thicken as it cools; reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to loosen it. The bites are best eaten within a day or two, as the crispiness fades.

The pork can be seasoned and cut up to a day ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator. The glaze can also be mixed and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When ready to cook, sear the pork and add the glaze as directed. The final dish is best served immediately after cooking.

Serving ideas

Serve the pork belly bites as an appetizer with toothpicks or small skewers. They're perfect for parties and game day spreads.

For a more substantial meal, pile them over steamed rice or noodles and drizzle with extra glaze. Add a side of quick-pickled cucumbers to cut the richness.

The bites also work well as a topping for salads or grain bowls. For a low-fuss dinner, serve them with sautéed greens and a wedge of lime. The glaze is versatile, so don't be afraid to use it on chicken or tofu for another quick meal.

Frequently asked questions

Can this recipe be made with chicken instead of pork?

Yes, chicken thighs or breast can be substituted. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Adjust the cooking time as needed, as chicken may cook faster than pork belly.

Why is the glaze not sticking to the pork?

The glaze may be too thin if it hasn't reduced enough. Simmer it for a few extra minutes until it coats the back of a spoon. Also, make sure to drain excess fat from the pan before adding the glaze, as excess oil prevents the glaze from clinging.

Can this dish be made in an air fryer?

Yes, cook the seasoned pork in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway. Then transfer to a skillet with the glaze and simmer until thick and sticky.

What can be used instead of dark soy sauce?

Use a mixture of 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce and 1 teaspoon molasses. This will provide a similar color and depth. Alternatively, use regular soy sauce alone, but the color will be lighter.

How can the dish be made less sweet?

Reduce the honey and brown sugar by half, and add a bit more rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice to balance the sweetness. Taste the glaze before adding it to the pork and adjust as needed.

Recipe card

Sticky Honey Soy Garlic Pork Belly Bites

Prep 10 minCook 20 minTotal 30 minServes 4

Ingredients

1 1/2 lb skinless pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp dark soy sauce
3 tbsp honey
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
2 tbsp scallions, thinly sliced

Instructions

Pat the pork belly cubes dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the pork with the five-spice powder, salt, and black pepper until every cube is evenly coated.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned pork cubes in a single layer. Cook for about 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the fat renders and the edges are golden and crisp. Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
Carefully pour off the excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. Return the skillet to medium heat.
Add the soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Bring the glaze to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and coats the pork with a glossy lacquer. The pork should be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest for 3 minutes before slicing.
Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the pork bites with toasted sesame seeds and sliced scallions. Serve hot, with toothpicks for easy picking.

Contains: gluten, soy, sesame

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories: 650
Protein: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fat: 54 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.

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This recipe is based on a short cooking video and is published under the pen name Clara Weller. It was checked before publication, but errors can slip through. Nutrition, when shown, is an estimate. Read more in our editorial policy and on our food safety page.