Filipino Baked Pork Lechon

Boil the pork belly in a pot of water along with the laurel leaves, cinnamon stick, whole black pepper, star anise, red onion, garlic, and salt. Boil for 30 minutes to an hour. Use enough water to ensure the pork is covered and will boil evenly. Then remove the pot from heat and allow to cool slightly; then place it in the refrigerator. Marinate the meat in the boiled water overnight.

The next day, while you preheat the oven (top and bottom heat) to 220ºC, remove the belly from the water and let it dry for 20 minutes. Bake for an hour or two till the skin is golden brown.