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Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites: A Crispy Delight

Pork belly is a delectable cut of meat that, when cooked properly, can offer a mouth-watering combination of tender flesh and crispy skin. With the advent of air fryers, cooking pork belly has become easier and healthier, allowing you to enjoy a scrumptious dish with significantly less oil. This article will guide you through making air fryer pork belly bites that are not only simple but also guaranteed to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings.

What Are Pork Belly Bites?

Pork belly bites are small, cubed portions of pork belly that have been seasoned and cooked until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish served with sides, they offer a burst of flavour with each bite that highlights the rich, succulent nature of pork belly.

Ingredients

To make mouth-watering air fryer pork belly bites, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g pork belly, skin on
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or spray to keep it lighter)
• Optional: Fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) for garnish

Preparation

1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Start by scoring the skin of the pork belly with a sharp knife. Make sure not to cut into the meat underneath. This will help render the fat and achieve a perfect crispy texture. Cut the pork belly into bite-sized cubes, approximately 2-3 cm each.

2. Seasoning: In a mixing bowl, combine the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Add the cubed pork belly to the bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and mix well to ensure that each piece is coated in the seasoning.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) for around 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the meat starts cooking immediately, sealing in the juices.

4. Air Fry the Pork Belly Bites: Arrange the seasoned pork belly cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent the pieces from crisping up properly. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

5. Cooking Time: Cook the pork belly bites at 200°C for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them, as cook times can vary based on the size of your pieces and the specific model of air fryer you are using.

6. Serve: Once they are wonderfully golden brown and crispy, remove the pork belly bites from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer pork belly bites can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a variety of dips and sides. Here are some ideas to complement your delicious bites:

• Dips: Serve them with a tangy BBQ sauce, a spicy aioli, or a refreshing mango salsa.
• Salads: Toss them into a fresh green salad for added protein and flavour.
• As a Side: They pair excellently with roasted vegetables or fluffy mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Air fryer pork belly bites are a spectacular dish that’s simple to prepare yet full of flavour. The ease of cooking in an air fryer makes this indulgent treat more accessible, and with less oil required, you can enjoy this crispy delight with a guilt-free pleasure. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself on a cosy night in, these pork belly bites are sure to be a hit. Do give them a try, and savour the satisfying crunch with every bite!