Difference of Pork Belly and Beef Belly

Let’s talk belly cuts—because whether you’re a grill master, a slow-roast fanatic, or someone who just appreciates rich, flavorful meat, the belly is where the magic happens.

Most folks are familiar with pork belly—especially thanks to its famous crispy cousin, bacon. But have you tried beef belly? If not, you’re missing out on a serious culinary gem.

In this post, we’ll break down the difference between pork belly and beef belly—flavor, texture, how to cook them, and why grass-fed beef belly might just become your new favorite cut.

What Exactly Is Pork Belly?

Pork belly comes from the underside of the pig—the same area that gives us bacon. It’s known for its thick, fatty layers, which render beautifully when cooked low and slow.

When prepared well, pork belly delivers a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite with just the right amount of crispiness on top. It’s a favorite in Korean BBQ, slow-roasted dishes, and rich stews.

But here’s the thing—pork belly is almost always very high in fat. That’s part of its charm, sure, but it’s also something to consider if you’re watching your fat intake or aiming for a cleaner source of protein.

Now Enter: Grass-Fed Beef Belly

Beef belly, also called “navel” or “plate,” comes from the same general area on a cow as pork belly does on a pig. But the similarities mostly end there.

Grass-fed beef belly tends to have:

• A more meaty, hearty bite

• Less overall fat compared to pork belly

• A deep, savory flavor that holds up to bold spices and marinades

Think of it as pork belly’s beefier, more nutrient-dense cousin. When cooked right, it’s tender, juicy, and incredibly satisfying without feeling overly rich.

👉 Try Our Grass-Fed Beef Belly — raised on open pastures with no shortcuts or synthetic feed.

Flavor Showdown: Pork Belly vs. Beef Belly

• Pork Belly: Rich, fatty, and slightly sweet depending on the cut. Great for caramelization and crisp textures.

• Beef Belly: Bold, savory, and umami-forward. It carries the natural depth of grass-fed beef and works beautifully in BBQ, stews, or smoked dishes.

In short? Pork belly is indulgent and silky. Beef belly is hearty and soul-warming. Both have their place on the plate—it really depends on your mood and your goals.

Which One’s Healthier?

Let’s just say this: not all fats are created equal. And not all meat is raised equally either.

Grass-fed beef belly comes with a nutritional edge:

• Higher levels of Omega-3s

• More CLA (conjugated linoleic acid)—linked to metabolic and immune health

• No hormones, antibiotics, or grain-based feeds (at least not from us)

Pork belly, especially from factory-farmed pigs, tends to be higher in omega-6 fats and lower in overall nutrients. If you’re sourcing your pork from a regenerative farm, you’re better off—but grass-fed beef belly still tends to win on nutrient density.

How to Cook Beef Belly (It’s Easier Than You Think)

Cooking beef belly is all about low and slow. Here are a few ways we love to prepare it:

• Smoked with a spice rub until it’s fall-apart tender

• Braised in broth, wine, or beer with onions and garlic

• Slow-roasted in the oven, then sliced for tacos or rice bowls

Unlike pork belly, you don’t need to worry as much about rendering tons of fat. Beef belly is naturally leaner, but still juicy enough to carry flavor for days.

Want to get creative? Try marinating it overnight in tamari, ginger, garlic, and a splash of apple cider vinegar before slow-cooking. You’ll thank us later.

Final Thoughts: Which Belly Should You Try?

If you love pork belly, you owe it to yourself to try beef belly—especially grass-fed beef belly that comes from cows raised with care, not corn.

At Ferguson Farms, our beef is 100% grass-fed and finished, raised with regenerative principles and zero shortcuts. The result? Better meat, better flavor, better for the planet.

So whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or just treating yourself to something deeply satisfying, don’t overlook this underrated cut.

👉 Shop Grass-Fed Beef Belly Now

Because when it comes to flavor, belly always brings the best.