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Deliciously Crisp: Air Fryer Roast Pork

Roast pork, with its tender meat and crispy crackling, is a British culinary staple that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. Traditionally, roasting pork can be a lengthy process, but with the advent of the air fryer, achieving that perfect roast has never been easier—or quicker. The air fryer not only simplifies the cooking process but also infuses the meat with a delightful crispness, making it an ideal method for preparing this beloved dish.

The Appeal of Air Frying

The air fryer has surged in popularity over the past few years, hailed for its ability to create healthier versions of fried foods without compromising on taste. Utilising rapid air technology, the air fryer circulates hot air around the food, resulting in a crispy exterior while locking in moisture. This makes it perfect for roast pork, ensuring a delectable crackling skin and succulent meat without excessive oil.

Selecting the Right Cut of Pork

To achieve the best results, choosing the right cut of pork is crucial. Pork shoulder, leg, and belly are popular choices for roasting. However, for air frying, pork loin or a small boneless pork joint is ideal due to its balanced fat content and shorter cooking time. When shopping for your pork, look for moderate fat marbling in the meat, which will contribute to a juicy end result.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Roast Pork

• 1.5 to 2 kg pork joint (preferably loin or belly)
• 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
• Sea salt (to taste)
• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
• Optional: Garlic powder, onion powder, or your favourite herbs (such as rosemary or thyme) for added flavour

Preparing Your Air Fryer Roast Pork

1. Preparation of the Pork: Start by preheating your air fryer to around 200°C (392°F). While the air fryer warms up, pat the pork dry with kitchen paper to ensure maximum crispiness. Score the skin with a sharp knife, making shallow cuts in a criss-cross pattern. This helps fat render out and crisp up the skin during cooking.

2. Seasoning the Meat: Massage the olive oil into the pork joint, making sure to cover it evenly. Generously season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, ensuring that the salt gets into the scored areas of the skin. If using additional spices, rub them into the meat at this stage for enhanced flavour.

3. Air Frying the Pork: Place the seasoned pork joint into the air fryer basket, skin side up. Cook at 200°C for approximately 25-30 minutes per kilogram, adjusting the time if your joint is particularly large or small. For the first part of the cooking, the high heat will help crisp the skin; if the crackling isn’t as crispy as you’d like toward the end, you can increase the temperature slightly for the last few minutes.

4. Resting the Meat: Once the pork reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F), remove it from the air fryer. Resting is an essential step to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Cover the joint loosely with foil and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the air-fried pork into succulent pieces, showcasing the juicy meat and crispy crackling. Serve with an array of traditional accompaniments such as crispy roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and rich gravy. Apple sauce or a tangy mustard can provide a delightful contrast to the rich flavours of the pork.

Conclusion

Air fryer roast pork offers a quick, convenient, and truly delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. Whether it’s for a Sunday roast or a special family gathering, the air fryer delivers mouth-watering results with minimal fuss. So, dust off your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and prepare to impress your family and friends with this modern twist on a traditional favourite. Happy cooking!