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These all start with a pork belly. I picked up a 4.5 pound half belly at my local Costco. They are quite affordable and quite possibly the most delicious part of the pig.
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To start, you need to trim off any skin or fat from the backside that is greater than half an inch. Next, cube the pork belly into 1 to 1.5 inch cubes. I have found that a 1 inch cut makes a crispier and more delicious burnt end. If you prefer a soft pillow without the crispiness, go for the 1.5 inch cut.
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Season with your favorite rub. I used my basic bbq rub. Place on a rack. With all of these tiny cubes, it is easier to move them around on the smoker when they are on a rack.
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Preheat your smoker to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and place the racks of pork belly cubes onto the smoker. I have used multiple smokers to make these and they always come out perfect. For this recipe, I used my trusty Traeger. Cook for 2 hours or until the cubes shrink by about 1/3 and develop a nice crust.
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Once the cubes have developed a nice crust transfer them to a half pan.
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Then, cover the cubes with 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup honey and 1 stick of butter (for 1/2 a pork belly, double for a full pork belly). Cover with foil and continue to cook for another 2 hours or until the cubes reach about 205 and probe with the thermometer without any resistance.
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Remove the pan from the smoker and drain the delicious drippings.
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Toss the belly with 1/2 cup of your favorite bbq sauce and place back onto the smoker for 10 to 15 minutes or until the sauce sets.
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Remove and serve.