Image Source from reyg1024

How to Air Fry Rind-On Pork Belly Strips

Pork belly is a versatile and indulgent cut of meat, perfect for a variety of dishes. Its rich flavour and crispy texture make it a favourite among meat lovers. Using an air fryer to cook rind-on pork belly strips is a fantastic way to achieve that coveted crispiness while keeping the meat tender and juicy. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to air fry perfect pork belly strips at home.

What You Will Need

Ingredients

• 500g rind-on pork belly
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Optional: your choice of seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Sharp knife
• Chopping board
• Paper towels
• Serving dish

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Pork Belly

Start by ensuring that your pork belly is well-trimmed. Lay the strips of pork belly on a chopping board, skin side up. Using a sharp knife, create a crosshatch pattern in the rind. This means making shallow cuts across the skin to form squares. Be careful not to cut too deeply into the meat; the goal is to score the rind, allowing the fat to render and the skin to become crispy.

2. Season the Pork

Once you have scored the rind, pat the pork belly strips dry with paper towels. This step is essential, as a dry surface will help achieve that sought-after crispiness during air frying. Generously season both sides of the pork belly strips with salt and black pepper. For additional flavour, you might want to sprinkle over your chosen seasonings. Remember, the salt will help draw out moisture and further enhance the crunchiness of the rind.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheating your air fryer is key to achieving even cooking and a crispy texture. Set the air fryer to 200°C (390°F) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes.

4. Air Fry the Pork Belly Strips

Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned pork belly strips in the basket. Ensure that the strips are not overcrowded, as this could steam the meat and prevent it from getting crispy. If necessary, cook in batches.

Air fry the pork belly strips for about 25 to 30 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. The exact time may vary depending on the thickness of your strips and the specific air fryer model. Aim for a golden-brown colour and a delightful crunch on the rind.

5. Check for Doneness

To check if the pork belly strips are done, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 71°C (160°F). However, it’s the rind that you want to ensure is crispy and golden. If it isn’t quite to your liking, give it a few more minutes in the air fryer.

6. Rest Before Serving

Once cooked, remove the pork belly strips from the air fryer and allow them to rest on a chopping board for about 5 minutes. This resting time lets the juices redistribute, making the meat even more succulent.

7. Serve and Enjoy

After resting, slice the pork belly strips into bite-sized pieces, if desired. Serve with your favourite sides, such as roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or fluffy rice. The crispy rind and tender meat will be a hit at the dinner table!

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Pork Belly

• Choose Quality Meat: Look for pork belly with an even layer of meat and fat. Quality cuts will yield better results.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to experiment with different marinades or rubs to complement the pork. A touch of honey or soy sauce can add a delightful sweetness when paired with the pork’s richness.
• Monitor Cooking: Each air fryer can differ in performance. Keep an eye on the pork belly towards the end of the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

Conclusion

Air frying rind-on pork belly strips is a simple yet effective way to enjoy this delicious cut of meat. With the right preparation and technique, you can achieve a crunchy rind and tender meat that will impress your family and friends. So, dust off that air fryer and treat yourself to a decadent yet easy meal. Enjoy!

No items listed in the response.