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Crispy Roast Pork Belly in Air Fryer – Scruff & Steph

If you’re an aficionado of deliciously crispy roast pork belly, then you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll explore the art of crafting the perfect crispy roast pork belly using the magic of the air fryer, inspired by the culinary wonders of Scruff & Steph.

What Makes Pork Belly So Irresistible?

Pork belly is a cut of meat celebrated for its rich flavours and melt-in-the-mouth texture. The succulent fat layers lock in moisture while the skin, when cooked correctly, becomes irresistibly crispy. This delightful combination makes pork belly a favourite in many cuisines around the world. With the modern convenience of an air fryer, achieving that perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat is easier than you think!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For a delicious roasted pork belly, you will require:

• 1 kg pork belly, skin on
• 1 tbsp sea salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (such as thyme or rosemary)

Preparing the Pork Belly

Step 1: Score the Skin

Begin by preparing your pork belly. Using a sharp knife, carefully score the skin in a crisscross pattern, being cautious not to cut into the meat itself. This scoring allows the fat to render and the skin to crisp up beautifully during cooking.

Step 2: Season

Once you’ve scored the skin, pat it dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. Generously season the skin and meat with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Make sure to rub the seasoning deep into the scores for maximum flavour.

Step 3: Refrigerate

For the ultimate crisp, it’s beneficial to let the seasoned pork belly sit uncovered in the fridge for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight. This helps to dry out the skin further, which is key to achieving that coveted crunchiness.

Cooking the Pork Belly in an Air Fryer

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and give it a few minutes to preheat. A hot air fryer ensures that the pork belly skin will start to crisp up right away.

Step 5: Air Fry

Place your pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for around 30 minutes at 200°C. After the initial cooking time, lower the temperature to 160°C (320°F) and continue cooking for an additional 30-40 minutes, depending on your air fryer’s performance. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times may vary. The skin should be visibly puffed and golden brown.

Step 6: Rest

Once cooked, carefully remove the pork belly from the air fryer and allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices within the meat to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces and serve with your choice of sides. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even nestled in a soft bun with some tangy coleslaw. You can also drizzle a bit of sweet chilli sauce or hoisin sauce over the top for an extra flavour dimension.

Conclusion

Creating a perfectly crispy roast pork belly in an air fryer is not only achievable but also incredibly rewarding. The balance of tender meat and crispy skin, combined with the ease of air frying, makes this dish a must-try. Follow the steps laid out by Scruff & Steph, and you’ll be well on your way to impressing your family and friends with this delicious meal. Enjoy your culinary adventure, and happy cooking!

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