Are you craving that irresistible crackling sound and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of perfectly cooked pork belly? Forget hours spent tending to a roasting pan – this air fryer crispy pork belly recipe delivers incredible results in a fraction of the time! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and impressive enough for a weekend dinner party. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork belly, skin scored
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Preparing the Pork Belly:
- Score the skin: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the pork belly skin in a crosshatch pattern, about 1/4 inch deep. This allows for maximum crispiness. Be careful not to cut into the meat.
- Season generously: Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the skin and meat. Then, generously season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Make sure the seasoning gets into all the scored lines.
Air Frying the Pork Belly:
- Air fry at high heat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork belly skin-side down in the air fryer basket.
- Initial cook: Air fry for 20 minutes.
- Flip and continue: Carefully flip the pork belly and air fry for another 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and incredibly crispy. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pork belly and your air fryer model.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork belly is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 190-195°F (88-91°C).
Resting and Serving:
- Rest the meat: Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
- Slice and serve: Slice the pork belly against the grain into thick slices. Serve immediately and enjoy! This crispy pork belly is fantastic on its own, or you can pair it with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Air Fryer Crispy Pork Belly:
- Dry is key: Ensure the pork belly skin is completely dry before seasoning and cooking. Excess moisture will prevent the skin from crisping up properly.
- Don't overcrowd: Make sure you have enough space in your air fryer basket for proper air circulation. If necessary, cook the pork belly in batches.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the pork belly and your air fryer. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Herb infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage.
- Honey-glazed: Brush the pork belly with honey during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 calories (depending on the size of the serving)
- Protein: High
- Fat: High
This air fryer crispy pork belly recipe is a delicious and relatively healthy meal option, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The ease and speed of preparation make it a winner in our book, and we’re confident you’ll love it too. Enjoy!