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Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Strips: An Easy and Delicious Recipe

If you’re looking for a mouth-watering dish that’s both indulgent and surprisingly simple to prepare, look no further than crispy air fryer pork belly strips. This recipe makes the most out of your air fryer, transforming thick slices of pork belly into crunchy, flavour-packed strips that are sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect as a snack, appetiser, or even a central dish, these strips are easy to master and incredibly satisfying to devour.

Ingredients

• 500g pork belly, skin-on
• 1 tablespoon sea salt, plus extra for seasoning
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Belly

Start by removing the pork belly from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. This is crucial as it helps achieve that perfectly crispy skin. Place the pork belly skin-side up on a cutting board and score the skin with a sharp knife, making shallow cuts about 1–2 cm apart. Be careful not to cut too deeply into the meat.

Step 2: Season the Meat

In a mixing bowl, combine the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and dried thyme (if using). Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to work it into the scored skin for maximum flavour. If you’re after an even more succulent result, drizzle a little olive oil over the meat before rubbing in the spices.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 5 minutes. This will allow the pork belly to start cooking evenly and will give the skin the initial burst of heat needed for crispy results.

Step 4: Cook the Pork Belly

Place the seasoned pork belly strips in the air fryer basket, skin side up, making sure they are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Cook the strips at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, checking halfway through and flipping the strips if necessary to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once the pork belly strips are golden brown and the skin is delightfully crispy, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes on a cutting board. This resting period will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender meat.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Using a sharp knife, slice the pork belly into bite-sized strips. Serve them hot, seasoned with a little extra sea salt if desired. These strips are fantastic on their own, but you can also pair them with a dipping sauce such as sweet chilli or a tangy soy sauce for an added layer of flavour.

Tips for Success

• Pork Belly Quality: For the best texture and flavour, choose high-quality pork belly from your butcher or supermarket.
• Adjustment for Thickness: Cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of your pork belly slices, so always keep an eye on them as they cook.
• Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for that crispy texture to return.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer pork belly strips are not only incredibly delicious but also a fun dish to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a gourmet experience at home that is sure to delight your taste buds. Whether enjoyed as a snack or part of a larger meal, these pork belly strips are bound to become a favourite in your household. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to indulge in this easy and delectable recipe!

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