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Crispy Air-Fryer Pork Belly Recipe

Pork belly is a magnificent cut of meat that, when cooked correctly, offers a delightful balance of crispy skin and succulent, tender meat. Cooking it in an air fryer is not only a healthier option but also a quick way to achieve that mouthwatering crispiness without a lot of fuss. In this article, we will walk you through a simple yet delicious recipe for crispy air-fryer pork belly that will surely impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful pork belly, you will need:

• 1 kg pork belly, skin scored
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavour)
• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (such as thyme or rosemary)
• A dash of olive oil

Preparing the Pork Belly

1. Score the Skin: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the skin of the pork belly in a criss-cross pattern. Be sure not to cut too deeply into the meat itself, as you want to keep it tender and juicy.

2. Marinate the Pork: In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried herbs. Rub this mixture generously all over the scored skin and the meat of the pork belly. For enhanced flavour, you can let the pork belly marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour or, for best results, overnight.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) for around 5 minutes. This will help achieve a perfect crispy skin.

Cooking the Pork Belly

1. Prepare for Air Frying: Lightly drizzle the pork belly with olive oil, which will help the skin crisp up beautifully. Place the pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin-side up.

2. Cooking Time: Cook the pork belly in the air fryer at 200°C (400°F) for approximately 25-30 minutes. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of the pork belly and the model of your air fryer, so keep an eye on it. The skin should puff up and turn a lovely golden-brown colour.

3. Checking for Doneness: To ensure the meat is cooked through and tender, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach around 70°C (160°F). Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Once rested, slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that each piece has a bit of that wonderfully crispy skin. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. A drizzle of a balsamic glaze or apple sauce complements the rich flavour of the pork beautifully.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Pork Belly

• Dry the Skin: For even crispier skin, pat the pork belly dry with paper towels before seasoning, as moisture can prevent it from crisping properly.
• Use High-Quality Pork: Choose a good quality cut of pork belly from your local butcher for the best results.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different spices and marinades to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

This crispy air-fryer pork belly recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy this delicious cut of meat without the need for lengthy cooking methods. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavour. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a weeknight meal with family, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your crispy creation, and don’t forget to take a moment to bask in the glory of your culinary achievement!

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