The term refers to the process of curing and flavoring pork belly through prolonged exposure to smoke. This method imparts a distinctive smoky flavor and enhances the preservation of the meat. The procedure typically involves brining or dry-curing the pork belly with salt, sugar, and various spices, followed by a smoking period at controlled temperatures.
Historically, this practice served as a crucial preservation technique, extending the shelf life of pork before refrigeration. The resulting product offers a complex flavor profile, combining the savory taste of pork with the aromatic qualities of the wood smoke. This method yields a more intensely flavored and textured product compared to unsmoked varieties, contributing significantly to culinary applications globally. It can also reduce risk of spoilage with preservation.