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Irresistible Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites Recipe

Pork belly bites have become a popular dish in homes and restaurants alike, beloved for their rich flavour and tender texture. With the advent of air fryers, it’s easier than ever to whip up these delicious morsels with a fraction of the fat compared to traditional frying methods. This recipe for air fryer pork belly bites is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying, making it the perfect addition to any gathering or cosy night in.

Ingredients

To serve 4, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g pork belly, skin scored
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• A sprinkle of fresh herbs or spring onions for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Belly

Begin by ensuring your pork belly is properly prepared. Score the skin in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut too deeply into the meat. This helps render the fat and results in crispy skin. You can ask your butcher to do this for you if you prefer.

2. Marinate

In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dried thyme. Rub this mixture all over your pork belly bites, making sure to work it into the scored skin for the best flavour. Allow the pork to marinate for at least 30 minutes; for even better results, marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

While your pork belly is marinating, preheat your air fryer to 190°C (375°F). Preheating is crucial for achieving that crispy texture, so don’t skip this step!

4. Cook the Pork Belly Bites

Once marinated and your air fryer is preheated, carefully place the pork belly bites in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are arranged in a single layer with a bit of space between them for even cooking. It’s advisable to cook them in batches if you’re making a larger quantity.

Cook the pork belly bites for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket to ensure even cooking and crisping, and flip the bites if necessary.

5. Check for Doneness

The pork belly is done when the skin is crispy and golden, and the internal temperature has reached at least 70°C (160°F). If the skin isn’t quite crispy enough, you can add an extra few minutes or turn the temperature up slightly towards the end of cooking.

6. Serve

Once cooked to perfection, remove the pork belly bites from the air fryer and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or chopped spring onions if desired.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful air fryer pork belly bites can be served as a stand-alone snack, perfect for sharing while watching a film or enjoying a casual get-together with friends. They also pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce, such as a spicy sriracha mayo or a zesty chimichurri. For a complete meal, serve them alongside roasted vegetables or a refreshing salad.

Conclusion

Air fryer pork belly bites are a quick, simple, and delicious dish that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. With their crispy skin and succulent meat, these bites offer all the indulgence of traditional pork belly with the added benefit of a healthier cooking method. Perfect for any occasion, you’ll find yourself making these again and again! So fire up your air fryer and treat yourself to this delectable delight!

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