Crispy Pork Belly with Sautéed Cabbage

This is one of those deeply satisfying, simple meals that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients to eat well. Crispy slices of pork belly sit on a bed of gently sautéed cabbage, creating a perfect balance of richness and freshness.

And here’s something important I always come back to in 60Fit cooking: don’t be frightened of fat. Fat is your best friend!! It’s what gives flavour, satiety, and helps your body absorb nutrients. When you eat real, whole food like this, fat is not something to avoid - it is something to enjoy.

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 2

  
  

Ingredients

• 2 x 200g (approx) pork belly portions

• ½ green cabbage, finely sliced

• 1 tbsp olive oil or pork fat (from cooking)

• 1 garlic clove, minced or finely sliced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Splash of water (for steaming cabbage)

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

  
  

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C).

2. Place the pork belly slices on a baking tray, season lightly with salt and pepper, and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden, crisp at the edges and cooked through.

3. While the pork cooks, heat a large frying pan over medium heat.

4. Use rendered pork fat from the tray as this really gives it the extra flavour or dd a little olive oil if you prefer.

5. Add the garlic and fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

6. Add the shredded cabbage, season with salt and pepper, and stir well.

7. Add a small splash of water, cover with a lid, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened but still with a bit of bite.

8. Once the pork is cooked, rest for a couple of minutes.

9. Serve the crispy pork belly on top of the sautéed cabbage. Finish with a splash of raw apple cider vinegar.

Nutrition (per serving – approx)

• Protein: 25–30g

• Calories: 500–600 kcal

• Carbohydrates: Low

• Healthy fats: High

• Fibre: Moderate

(Values are very approximate and will vary depending on cut of pork and cooking fat used.)

Why This Works (60Fit Approach)

This is a simple, grounding meal that supports energy, fullness, and satisfaction without relying on processed ingredients.

You’re getting:

• Protein for muscle maintenance and recovery

• Healthy fats for hormone support and satiety

• Cabbage for fibre, digestion, and volume without heaviness

  
  

It’s the kind of food that keeps you full and steady, not snacky or chasing energy later.

60Fit Tip

If you’re coming off a strength session or a long walk, this is a brilliant recovery meal as it is. If you want extra energy support, add a small portion of new potatoes or roasted sweet potato on the side. And remember: fat isn’t the enemy, it’s part of the nourishment.