Torresmo
Brazilian Crispy Pork Belly
Experience the ultimate Brazilian bar snack: Torresmo! These incredibly crispy, golden-brown pork cracklings are made from pork belly, slowly rendered to perfection and then fried to a shatteringly crisp finish. A true delight for any meat lover.
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Pork belly
- 1 tbsp Kosher salt(or to taste)
- 1 Lime
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the pork: If your pork belly has a thick layer of fat on the underside, you can trim some of it, but leave a good amount for rendering. Cut the pork belly into uniform cubes, approximately 2-3 cm (about 1 inch). Ensure the skin is scored or cut into small pieces to help it crisp up.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Season the pork: Place the pork cubes in a bowl. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt, ensuring each piece is well-coated. You can also add freshly ground black pepper if desired.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 3
Begin rendering the fat: Place the seasoned pork belly cubes in a cold, heavy-bottomed skillet or pot. Do not preheat the pan. This slow start is crucial for rendering the fat from the pork belly without burning the meat. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes. You will see the fat begin to melt and render out. The pork pieces will start to soften and turn opaque.
⏱️ 20-25 minutes - 4
Increase heat for crisping: Once a significant amount of fat has rendered, increase the heat to medium-high (around 190°C / 375°F). Continue to cook, stirring more frequently, for another 15-20 minutes. The pork pieces should start to brown and puff up. Listen for a gentle crackling sound. The goal is to achieve a deep golden-brown color and a shatteringly crisp texture.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 5
Drain and serve: Once the torresmo is golden brown and crispy, carefully remove the pieces from the pan using a slotted spoon, allowing excess fat to drip off. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any remaining grease. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the hot torresmo just before serving. The acidity of the lime cuts through the richness of the pork beautifully.
⏱️ 3 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Starting in a cold pan is essential for rendering the fat slowly and evenly, preventing the meat from cooking too quickly before the fat has a chance to melt.
- ✓The final product should be shatteringly crispy, with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
- ✓Torresmo is best enjoyed immediately while still hot and crispy. It's the perfect accompaniment to a cold beer or as part of a larger meal.
- ✓If using pork belly with skin, ensure the skin is scored or cut to help it become extra crispy.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Torresmo de Pele: Made solely from pork skin, resulting in an even lighter and crispier crackling.
- Garlic & Herb Torresmo: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the pork before rendering for added flavor.