Pork belly in the air fryer has become Australia’s hottest new food trend due to its irresistible crispy texture and succulent flavor. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe to try at home:
Air Fryer Crispy Pork Belly
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) pork belly, skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, score the pork belly’s skin with a sharp knife, making shallow cuts in a diamond pattern. Be careful not to cut into the meat itself, just the skin.
- Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- In a small bowl, mix the olive oil with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar (if using). This will create a flavorful rub for the pork belly.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it thoroughly, including the scored skin.
- Place the pork belly in the air fryer basket with the skin-side up. You can use a trivet or rack to keep it elevated if your air fryer has one.
- Cook the pork belly in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes or until the skin becomes crispy and golden brown. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the pork belly and your air fryer model, so keep an eye on it.
- Once the pork belly is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve the crispy pork belly with your favorite dipping sauce or on a bed of salad for a tasty and satisfying meal.
Notes:
- Pork belly can be found at most supermarkets or your local butcher. Look for a piece with an even layer of fat and meat for the best results.
- The spice rub can be adjusted to your taste preferences. You can add more or less seasoning or include other spices you enjoy.
- If you prefer an extra crispy skin, you can turn on the broiler for a few minutes after air frying. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
Enjoy this delicious and trendy air fryer pork belly recipe! It’s perfect for a special dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings.
