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Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites Recipe

Pork belly is a delectable cut of meat that, when cooked properly, can be transformed into tender, crispy bites bursting with flavour. The air fryer has revolutionised the way we cook, making it easier to achieve that coveted crunch without the need for copious amounts of oil. Today, we’ll explore a simple and mouth-watering recipe for air fryer pork belly bites that will leave your taste buds singing.

Ingredients

To create these delightful bites, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g pork belly, skin scored
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: Fresh herbs (such as parsley or coriander) for garnish

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Begin by rinsing the pork belly under cold water to remove any impurities. Pat it dry with kitchen paper. Using a sharp knife, score the skin of the pork belly in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut too deep into the meat. This will allow the fat to render out during cooking, resulting in crispy skin.

2. Season the Meat: In a mixing bowl, combine the sea salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the tablespoon of olive oil and mix until a smooth paste forms. Rub this mixture thoroughly over the pork belly, making sure to get it into the scored skin and onto the meat for maximum flavour.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.

4. Cook the Pork Belly: Place the seasoned pork belly in the air fryer basket, ensuring that the skin side faces upwards. Cook for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through, check the pork belly and adjust the cooking time as necessary. If your air fryer has a “rotate” function, consider using it for even cooking.

5. Check for Crispiness: After the initial cooking time, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the pork belly has reached 70°C (160°F). If you prefer extra crispy skin, you can cook it for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn.

6. Rest and Serve: Once the pork belly bites are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to rest for around 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, ensuring tender meat.

7. Slice and Enjoy: Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces and serve warm. These crispy bites are perfect as a snack on their own or served with your favourite dipping sauce, such as sweet chilli, soy sauce, or a tangy mustard.

Tips for the Perfect Pork Belly Bites

• Choose the Right Pork Belly: Look for a cut with a good balance of meat and fat; this will enhance flavour and ensure crispy skin.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: For the best results, it’s important not to overcrowd the air fryer. Cooking in batches can help achieve uniform crispiness.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to twist the basic recipe with different spices or marinades, such as Asian-inspired flavours with five-spice powder or a herb-infused mix.

Conclusion

Air fryer pork belly bites are the perfect addition to any meal or a fantastic stand-alone snack. With minimal effort, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. So, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe will serve up a deliciously crispy experience. Enjoy!