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The Ultimate Guide to Air Fryer Pork Belly: Crispy, Juicy Perfection

Pork belly is a culinary delight that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of food enthusiasts around the world. Known for its rich flavour and tender texture, it’s a versatile cut of meat that can be enjoyed in various forms. In recent years, the air fryer has emerged as a kitchen favourite, and when it comes to cooking pork belly, this nifty appliance truly shines. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at air fryer pork belly, offering you all the tips and tricks you need to create this mouth-watering dish in your own home.

What is Pork Belly?

Pork belly is a boneless cut of fatty meat from the underside of the pig. It has a thick layer of fat and a good amount of meat, making it incredibly flavourful and juicy when cooked properly. Traditionally used in dishes like Chinese braised pork belly or served as crispy crackling in British cuisine, pork belly is a versatile ingredient that can be adapted to suit various cooking methods.

Why Use an Air Fryer?

The air fryer has become increasingly popular due to its ability to produce crispy textures without the need for excessive oil. By circulating hot air around the food, the air fryer creates a similar effect to deep frying but with significantly less fat. For pork belly, this means you can achieve that coveted crispy skin while keeping the meat beautifully tender and juicy.

Preparing Your Air Fryer Pork Belly

Ingredients:

• 1 kg pork belly, skin on
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: your choice of spices or marinades (e.g., garlic powder, smoked paprika, five-spice powder, or a simple soy sauce marinade)

Instructions:

1. Score the Skin: Begin by scoring the skin of the pork belly. Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts across the skin, being careful not to cut into the meat. This scoring allows the fat to render down during cooking, contributing to that all-important crispy texture.

2. Season Generously: Season the pork belly liberally with salt and black pepper. If you prefer, you can also add your chosen spices or marinade at this stage. Allow the pork to sit for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour to absorb the flavours. For even better results, consider marinating it overnight in the fridge.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F). This step ensures an even cooking temperature right from the start.

4. Air Frying: Place the pork belly into the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook for about 25-30 minutes. After the initial cooking time, check the skin; it should start to crisp up. Continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, checking regularly to ensure it doesn’t burn.

5. Resting Time: Once the skin is crispy and golden brown, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is packed with flavour.

6. Serve: After resting, slice the pork belly into thick pieces and serve with your choice of sides. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or even in a delicious bao bun for a modern twist.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Pork Belly

• Pat the Skin Dry: For extra crispy skin, be sure to pat the skin of the pork belly dry with paper towels before seasoning. Moisture can inhibit the crisping process.
• Experiment with Flavours: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different marinades and seasonings. A blend of soy sauce, honey, and garlic can add a delicious glaze to the pork belly.
• Mind the Size: Ensure the pork belly fits comfortably in the air fryer basket. If it’s too large, consider cutting it into smaller sections to ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

Air fryer pork belly is a delightful dish that combines richness with crispiness, making it a must-try for any meat lover. The air fryer simplifies the cooking process while delivering results that rival traditional cooking methods. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a weeknight feast, this recipe is sure to impress. So dust off your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some of the crispiest, juiciest pork belly you’ve ever tasted!