Air-frying pork belly can result in a crispy and delicious dish without the need for excessive oil. Here’s a simple recipe along with some notes to ensure optimal results:
Air-Fryer Pork Belly Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) pork belly, skin-on
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: additional seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Chinese five-spice powder
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Belly:
- If the pork belly comes in a slab, cut it into manageable pieces, about 1-inch wide strips or cubes.
- Score the skin side of the pork belly with a sharp knife. This helps the fat render out and crisps up the skin nicely.
- Season the Pork Belly:
- Rub salt and pepper all over the pork belly, including into the scores you made on the skin. Optionally, you can add other seasonings according to your preference.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Air-Fry the Pork Belly:
- Once preheated, place the pork belly pieces in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin side up. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispy results.
- Cook the pork belly at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on the pork belly as cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the pieces and your air fryer model.
- Adjust the cooking time as needed. The pork belly should be crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a main dish or slice it up for appetizers or as a topping for salads or rice bowls.
Notes:
- Skin Score: Scoring the skin helps release the fat and ensures crispy crackling. Be careful not to cut too deeply into the meat.
- Seasonings: Feel free to customize the seasonings according to your taste preferences. You can use a variety of spices and herbs to enhance the flavor of the pork belly.
- Preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures that the pork belly starts cooking immediately, resulting in a crispier texture.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the pork belly pieces and your air fryer model. Keep an eye on the pork belly to prevent overcooking or burning.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure to arrange the pork belly pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispy results. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy skin.
- Marinade or Brine: Consider marinating the pork belly before cooking for added flavor and tenderness. You can use a simple marinade of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. Alternatively, you can brine the pork belly in a solution of water, salt, and sugar for a few hours before cooking.
- Low and Slow Method: For even more tender pork belly, you can opt for a lower temperature and longer cooking time. Try cooking the pork belly at 325°F (160°C) for 30-40 minutes, then increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 10-15 minutes to crisp up the skin.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different flavor profiles by using various seasonings and spices. For example, you can try a Korean-inspired marinade with gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil. Or, for a barbecue twist, rub the pork belly with a dry rub made from smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Sauce or Glaze: Serve the air-fried pork belly with a dipping sauce or glaze for added flavor. A simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili flakes works well. You can also brush the pork belly with a glaze made from honey, soy sauce, and garlic during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and sticky finish.
- Side Dishes: Pair the air-fried pork belly with complementary side dishes like steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a crisp salad. The crispy pork belly also makes a delicious addition to sandwiches, tacos, or grain bowls.
- Storage and Reheating: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the pork belly in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and flavor combinations to find your perfect air-fried pork belly recipe. Whether you prefer it spicy, sweet, or savory, there are endless possibilities to explore!
