Pork belly: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is used in culinary contexts, often in fine dining or when referring to a specific cut of pork that is uncured and unsmoked. It's known for its rich flavor and tenderness.

• The chef prepared a crispy pork belly with a side of mashed potatoes.
• I bought some pork belly to make my favorite Korean BBQ dish.

Commonly used in casual dining, breakfast menus, and everyday cooking to refer to cured and often smoked slices of pork, typically from the belly. Bacon is a well-loved ingredient due to its distinct and savory flavor.

• I had scrambled eggs and bacon for breakfast.
• The burger comes with crispy bacon and cheese.

An Italian term used in culinary contexts to describe cured pork belly, often used in Italian dishes. It is similar to bacon but is usually not smoked.

• The pasta was delicious, topped with pancetta and Parmesan cheese.
• You can add sliced pancetta to your salad for extra flavor.

Usually used to describe pork with a high fat content, potentially from various cuts, and it might have a negative connotation when referring to an unhealthy or greasy dish.

• The dish was too greasy; there was too much fatty pork in it.
• You might want to trim some of the fat if you're using fatty pork.