Ingredients
- 1 kg TenderBites Pork Leg (Pigue -Skin-On)
- 1 tbsp sea salt
- 1 tbsp ground black pepper
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1–2 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Meat You'll Need
This Crispy Pigue (Pigue -Skin-On) recipe is perfect for those who love tender, juicy pork with a perfectly crispy skin. With a spicy soy glaze that brings depth of flavor and a hint of heat, this dish is an easy crowd-pleaser. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or weekend cookouts, it’s a great way to enjoy the rich taste of Pigue.
Preparation
- Prepare the Pork:
Pat the pork leg skin completely dry using paper towels. Lightly score the skin with a sharp knife, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps release moisture and allows the skin to crisp evenly during cooking. - Season the Meat:
Rub the pork leg with sea salt and black pepper. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat. - Make the Spicy Soy Glaze:
In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, calamansi juice, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili flakes, and minced garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze slightly thickens. Set aside. - Sear the Pork Leg:
Heat cooking oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Place the pork leg skin-side down and cook for 4–5 minutes until the skin turns golden and crisp. Flip and cook the meat side for another 2–3 minutes to develop color. - Finish in the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Transfer the pork leg to a roasting pan, skin-side up, and roast for 20–25 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the skin is crisp. For extra crunch, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely. - Glaze and Serve:
Remove from the oven and brush generously with the spicy soy glaze. Let the pork rest briefly before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
Cooking Tips
- For ultra-crispy skin: Ensure the skin is completely dry before searing—moisture is the enemy of crispiness.
- Control the heat: Adjust the chili flakes to suit your spice preference or omit for a milder glaze.
- Perfect glaze texture: Simmer longer for a thicker glaze, or add a small splash of water if it becomes too sticky.
- Serving ideas: Pair with steamed rice, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness.
