Embark on a culinary adventure with the Lechon recipe, a Filipino masterpiece known for its crispy skin and succulent meat. Learn the secrets behind creating this iconic roast pork dish that graces festive tables and celebrations.

Ingredients:

Gather the essential ingredients for a perfect Lechon:

10 lbs (4.5 kg) whole pork belly

1 cup lemongrass, chopped

1 cup garlic, minced

1 cup onion, finely chopped

4 bay leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp soy sauce

2 tbsp fish sauce

1 can of soda (lemon-lime or cola)

Instructions:

Follow these steps to achieve the crispy perfection of Lechon

Prepare the Pork Belly:

Clean and pat dry the pork belly. Score the skin with a sharp knife.

Create the Marinade:

In a bowl, mix lemongrass, garlic, onion, bay leaves, salt, pepper, soy sauce, fish sauce, and soda.

Marinate the Pork:

Rub the marinade all over the pork, including the scored skin. Let it marinate for at least 6 hours or overnight.

Preheat and Roast:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated pork in a roasting pan.

Roast to Crispy Perfection:

Roast the pork for about 3-4 hours or until the skin is crispy, basting with the marinade occasionally.

Rest and Serve:

Let the Lechon rest before slicing. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving:

Enjoy the Lechon with steamed rice and a side of liver sauce for a truly festive Filipino feast. Share the joy of this iconic dish with family and friends.

Mastering the art of Lechon brings the spirit of Filipino celebrations to your table. With crispy skin and juicy meat, this roast pork dish is a symbol of culinary excellence.