Pork bellies

Pork bellies are a cut of pork that comes from the belly of a pig. They are popular in many cuisines around the world, including American, Chinese, and Korean.

History

The use of pork bellies in cooking dates back to ancient times. In Ancient Rome, pork was a staple food and the belly was considered a delicacy. In Asia, pork bellies have been used in recipes for centuries, and they remain a popular ingredient in many traditional dishes.

Production

Pork bellies are produced by slaughtering a pig and then separating the belly from the rest of the carcass. The belly is then typically cured, smoked, or sliced into bacon. In some cases, it may also be used fresh in recipes.

Uses in Cooking

Pork bellies are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. They are often slow-cooked or braised to render out the fat and make the meat tender. In American cuisine, pork bellies are most commonly used to make bacon. In Chinese cuisine, they are often used in dishes like red braised pork belly, while in Korean cuisine, they are a key ingredient in dishes like samgyeopsal.

Commodity Trading

Pork bellies are also notable for their role in commodity trading. They were one of the first commodities to be traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange in the 1960s. However, due to changes in the pork industry and decreased demand for frozen pork bellies, they were delisted as a commodity in 2011.

Health Considerations

While pork bellies are high in protein and other nutrients, they are also high in fat and cholesterol, which can contribute to health issues like heart disease and obesity if consumed in excess.

See Also

• Bacon
• Pork
• Commodity trading
• Chinese cuisine
• Korean cuisine

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