Craving Lechon Kawali? Your UK Guide To Crispy Pork Belly

by Jhon Lennon 58 views

Hey guys! Ever find yourself daydreaming about that incredibly crispy, melt-in-your-mouth Filipino pork belly called Lechon Kawali? If you're in the UK and that craving hits hard, you're in the right place! This is your ultimate guide to finding, making, and absolutely devouring Lechon Kawali right here in the UK. Get ready for a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to the Philippines!

What is Lechon Kawali?

Before we dive into where to find or how to make this amazing dish in the UK, let's talk about what Lechon Kawali actually is. Lechon Kawali is essentially deep-fried pork belly. The pork is typically boiled first with aromatics, then air-dried or chilled, and finally deep-fried until the skin is unbelievably crunchy and the meat is tender and juicy. The name itself gives a clue – "Lechon" refers to roasted pig (though here it's deep-fried!), and "Kawali" refers to the large wok or deep frying pan traditionally used to cook it. Think of it as the ultimate crispy pork experience!

Lechon Kawali stands out from other pork dishes due to its unique cooking process. The initial boiling with aromatics, such as bay leaves, peppercorns, and onions, infuses the pork with a savory flavor. Then, the crucial step of drying or chilling the pork ensures that the skin becomes incredibly crispy when deep-fried. This combination of flavors and textures – the savory meat against the shatteringly crisp skin – is what makes Lechon Kawali so irresistible.

In the Philippines, Lechon Kawali is often served with a variety of dipping sauces. The most popular is Mang Tomas Sarsa, a sweet and savory all-purpose sauce. Other common accompaniments include soy sauce with vinegar, chili garlic sauce, or even a simple sawsawan (dipping sauce) made with fish sauce, vinegar, and chili. The dipping sauce adds another layer of flavor and complements the richness of the pork. Traditionally, it is enjoyed with steamed rice, which balances the richness of the pork and provides a satisfying and complete meal. Some people also like to serve it with atchara (pickled papaya) to provide a tangy counterpoint to the savory pork.

Finding Lechon Kawali in the UK

Okay, so you're drooling already, right? Let's get down to business. Finding authentic Lechon Kawali in the UK can be a bit of a treasure hunt, but it's totally doable. Here's where to start:

  • Filipino Restaurants: This is the most obvious choice, but it's also the most reliable. London, in particular, has a vibrant Filipino food scene. Search online for Filipino restaurants near you and check their menus. Don't be shy about calling ahead to confirm they have Lechon Kawali.
  • Asian Supermarkets: Many large Asian supermarkets, especially those with a significant Filipino clientele, will sometimes have a section with pre-cooked or ready-to-eat meals. You might get lucky and find Lechon Kawali there, either freshly made or frozen.
  • Food Markets and Festivals: Keep an eye out for Filipino food stalls at local food markets and festivals. These are great places to discover hidden gems and sample authentic dishes.
  • Online Delivery Services: Some Filipino restaurants and caterers offer delivery services through platforms like Deliveroo, Uber Eats, or their own websites. Search for "Filipino food delivery" in your area and see if Lechon Kawali is on the menu.
  • Filipino Community Groups: Join Filipino community groups on social media. These groups are a fantastic resource for finding recommendations for restaurants, caterers, or even home cooks who sell Lechon Kawali.

When searching for Lechon Kawali, be sure to read reviews and ask for recommendations. Look for restaurants or vendors that prioritize authenticity and use high-quality ingredients. A good Lechon Kawali should have incredibly crispy skin, tender and juicy meat, and a flavorful aroma. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the preparation method and ingredients used. The more information you have, the better you can assess the quality of the dish. Also, consider the dipping sauce that comes with the Lechon Kawali. A delicious dipping sauce can elevate the entire experience and complement the richness of the pork.

Making Your Own Lechon Kawali at Home

Feeling adventurous? Making your own Lechon Kawali at home is totally achievable, and trust me, the bragging rights are worth it! Here's a simplified guide to get you started:

Ingredients:

    1. 5-2 kg pork belly, skin on
  • 6-8 cups water
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4-5 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2-3 bay leaves
  • 1 tbsp whole peppercorns
  • Salt, to taste
  • Cooking oil, for deep frying

Instructions:

  1. Boil the Pork: In a large pot, combine the pork belly, water, onion, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the pork is tender but not falling apart. This step is crucial for tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor.
  2. Dry the Pork: Remove the pork from the pot and let it cool completely. Pat it dry with paper towels. Then, place it in the refrigerator, uncovered, for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This drying process is essential for achieving crispy skin. You can also use a fan to help dry out the skin even faster.
  3. Prepare for Frying: Before frying, score the pork skin with a sharp knife or box cutter. This will help the skin render and become extra crispy. Make sure not to cut too deep into the meat. Season the pork with salt to taste.
  4. Deep Fry: Heat enough cooking oil in a large pot or deep fryer to fully submerge the pork belly. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the pork belly into the hot oil, skin-side down. Fry for about 10-15 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Use a splatter screen to protect yourself from oil splatters.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the Lechon Kawali from the oil and let it rest on a wire rack for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and prevent the pork from drying out. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and steamed rice.

Tips for Crispy Perfection:

  • Don't skip the drying step! This is the most important factor for achieving crispy skin.
  • Use enough oil. The pork belly needs to be fully submerged for even cooking.
  • Fry in batches if necessary. Don't overcrowd the pot, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy skin.
  • Monitor the oil temperature. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the correct temperature.
  • Be careful of oil splatters! Wear protective gear and use a splatter screen.

Where to Buy Ingredients in the UK

Finding the ingredients for Lechon Kawali in the UK is generally pretty easy. Here's a breakdown:

  • Pork Belly: Most supermarkets and butchers sell pork belly. Look for a piece with a good layer of fat and skin.
  • Aromatics (Onion, Garlic, Bay Leaves, Peppercorns): These are readily available in any supermarket.
  • Cooking Oil: Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil.
  • Dipping Sauces: You can find Mang Tomas Sarsa and other Filipino sauces in Asian supermarkets or online. Alternatively, you can easily make your own dipping sauce with soy sauce, vinegar, chili, and garlic.

For more specialized Filipino ingredients, like Mang Tomas Sarsa, your best bet is to head to an Asian supermarket. Many major cities in the UK have large Asian supermarkets that stock a wide range of Filipino products. You can also find these ingredients online through various online retailers that specialize in Asian or Filipino food. Don't hesitate to explore different brands and try new sauces to find your perfect combination. Experimenting with different dipping sauces is a great way to customize your Lechon Kawali experience and discover new flavor combinations.

Lechon Kawali Variations and Twists

While the classic Lechon Kawali is a masterpiece in itself, there's always room for experimentation! Here are a few variations and twists to try:

  • Lechon Kawali with a Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the boiling liquid for a spicy infusion. Serve with a chili garlic dipping sauce for extra heat.
  • Lechon Kawali with Asian-Inspired Marinade: Marinate the pork belly in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil before boiling. This adds a delicious Asian-inspired flavor to the pork.
  • Air Fryer Lechon Kawali: For a healthier alternative, try cooking the Lechon Kawali in an air fryer. While it may not be exactly the same as deep-fried, it's still a delicious and crispy option.
  • Lechon Kawali Sisig: Chop up the Lechon Kawali and combine it with onions, chili peppers, and calamansi juice to make a delicious sisig. Serve on a sizzling plate for an authentic Filipino experience.

The possibilities are endless! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique Lechon Kawali masterpiece. Don't be afraid to try new dipping sauces, marinades, or cooking methods. The key is to have fun and enjoy the process of creating your own culinary masterpiece.

Conclusion: Your Lechon Kawali Adventure Awaits!

So there you have it! Your comprehensive guide to conquering Lechon Kawali in the UK. Whether you choose to hunt it down at a Filipino restaurant, whip it up in your own kitchen, your crispy pork dreams are within reach. Now go forth, embrace the deliciousness, and enjoy the ultimate pork belly experience! Happy cooking (and eating), guys!