Rugbrød med Vaellingsflæsk
Rye Bread with Pork Belly and Gravy
A hearty and comforting Danish dish featuring crispy fried pork belly served on thick slices of rye bread, generously topped with a rich, savory gravy. This is a rustic and satisfying meal, often enjoyed as a substantial lunch or a simple supper.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Pork belly(skin on, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 4 slices Danish dark rye bread (rugbrød)
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 500 ml Beef or pork broth
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground, or to taste)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place the cubed pork belly in a baking dish and season generously with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the pork belly is golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally. [cite: (implied by general knowledge of pork belly preparation)]
- 2
While the pork belly is roasting, prepare the gravy. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. [cite: (implied by general knowledge of gravy preparation)]
- 3
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. [cite: (implied by general knowledge of gravy preparation)]
- 4
Gradually whisk in the beef or pork broth until smooth. Bring the gravy to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. [cite: (implied by general knowledge of gravy preparation)]
- 5
Toast or lightly grill the slices of rye bread until slightly crisp.
- 6
To assemble, place a slice of rye bread on each plate. Top generously with the crispy pork belly. [cite: (implied by common smørrebrød assembly)]
- 7
Ladle a generous amount of the hot gravy over the pork belly and rye bread. [cite: (implied by common smørrebrød assembly)]
- 8
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately. [cite: (implied by common garnish practices)]
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the pork belly skin is dry before roasting to achieve maximum crispiness.
- ✓For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a bay leaf to the gravy while it simmers.
- ✓If you prefer a smoother gravy, strain it before serving.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a dollop of mustard to the side of the plate.
- Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the gravy.
- Serve with a side of pickled red cabbage for a traditional Danish accompaniment.