Colombian Chicharrón: The Ultimate Crispy, Juicy Pork Belly Recipe

If you’ve ever strolled through the vibrant streets of Colombia, the irresistible aroma of chicharrón colombiano likely caught your attention. This iconic dish—golden, crispy pork belly with juicy, tender meat inside—is a staple in Colombian cuisine, enjoyed as a snack, side dish, or even the star of a hearty meal.

Today, we’re sharing an authentic Colombian chicharrón recipe that’s easy to follow and delivers perfect crunch and flavor every time. Let’s dive in!

🐷 Why You’ll Love Colombian Chicharrón

• Crispy outside, juicy inside – The perfect texture contrast.
• Made with just 3 ingredients – Simple yet incredibly flavorful.
• Versatile – Serve it with arepas, rice, or even in tacos!
• A taste of Colombia at home – Bring the street food experience to your kitchen.

✅ Ingredients (Simple & Authentic)

• 3 lbs (1.3 kg) pork belly (skin-on) – The key to perfect chicharrón.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances the natural pork flavor.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Secret for ultra-crispy skin.
• ¼ tsp baking soda – Helps with browning.
• 2 cups water – For slow-cooking tenderness.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe (Crispy Every Time!)

Step 1: Prep the Pork Belly

• Cut pork belly into 1-inch thick strips.
• Score the skin lightly (don’t cut deep—this helps crispiness!).

Step 2: Season & Slow-Cook

1. Place pork in a large pot.
2. Add salt, baking powder, and baking soda, mixing well.
3. Pour in 2 cups water.
4. Cook on medium-low heat for 1–1.5 hours until water evaporates.

Step 3: Fry to Crispy Perfection

• Once water is gone, the pork will fry in its own fat.
• Increase heat to medium and fry for 20–30 minutes, flipping until golden and crispy.
• Let it rest 5 minutes (it gets crispier as it cools!).

🍽️ How to Serve Colombian Chicharrón

• Classic Colombian Style: With arepas, lime, and ají sauce.
• Bandeja Paisa: Alongside rice, beans, avocado, and plantains.
• Snack Attack: Dip in guacamole or spicy salsa.
• Taco Twist: Stuff into tortillas with cilantro and onions.

✨ Leftover Ideas (If You Have Any!)

• Breakfast Upgrade: Add to scrambled eggs or omelets.
• Salad Crunch: Sprinkle over greens for extra texture.
• Fried Rice: Toss with rice, veggies, and soy sauce.
• Soup Topping: Float on sancocho or ajiaco for extra richness.

🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Chicharrón

✔ Low & slow cooking = tender meat + crispy skin.
✔ Use a splatter guard to avoid oil mess.
✔ Reheat in an air fryer (not microwave) to keep it crispy.
✔ Make extra—it disappears fast!

🎉 Bring Colombia to Your Kitchen!

Now that you know how to make authentic chicharrón colombiano, it’s time to enjoy this crispy, flavorful masterpiece. Whether you’re reminiscing about Bogotá’s food stalls or trying Colombian cuisine for the first time, this recipe is a must-make!

Ready to cook? Grab that pork belly and let’s get frying! 🇨🇴🔥

Colombian Chicharrón: Crispy Pork Belly

Authentic Colombian-style chicharrón with perfectly crispy skin and juicy meat inside. Made with just 3 ingredients!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 days d

Cook Time 2 days d

Total Time 2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Cuisine Colombian

Video

Notes

 

Ingredients

• 3 lbs (1.3 kg) pork belly (skin-on)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups water

Servings
4 people

Instructions

1. Prep the pork: Cut into 1-inch strips and score the skin lightly with a knife.
2. Season: Place pork in pot, add salt, baking powder, and baking soda.
3. Slow cook: Add water and cook on medium-low for 1-1.5 hours until water evaporates.
4. Fry: Increase heat to medium and fry in rendered fat for 20-30 minutes until golden and crispy.
5. Rest: Let cool 5 minutes before serving (it gets crispier!).

Chef’s Notes

• For extra crispiness, pat the skin dry before cooking
• Use a splatter guard to minimize oil mess
• Reheat leftovers in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-5 minutes

🔥 Calorie Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	550-650
Protein	15-20g
Fat	50-55g
Carbs	0g

Note: Calories will vary based on fat content of pork belly and frying time.

💡 Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pork belly without skin?

You can—but the signature crispiness comes from the skin. Skinless pork belly won’t yield the same crispy results.

Is baking soda necessary?

It’s optional but recommended. Baking soda helps the pork skin puff up and achieve maximum crispiness.

Can chicharrón be oven-baked?

You can bake it, but frying gives it that traditional Colombian crunch. Baking works well if you’re aiming for a lighter option.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool leftovers, then refrigerate in an airtight container. Reheat using an oven or air fryer for best results.

What’s the best pork cut for making chicharrón?

Always choose pork belly with the skin intact for the juiciest, crispiest chicharrón.