Craving something crispy, flavorful, and irresistibly satisfying? Air Fryer Pork Belly is a game-changer for anyone who loves indulgent yet effortless dishes. This recipe combines tender pork belly with a perfectly crisp crust, delivering a mouthwatering texture and flavor. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a simple weekday meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
Cooking pork belly in an air fryer takes away the fuss of traditional methods while locking in all the goodness. Unlike deep frying, it’s healthier yet doesn’t compromise on that golden crisp. Plus, it’s fast—perfect for busy schedules! You can season it to suit your tastes, from savory spices to bold marinades.
Let’s dive into creating a pork belly masterpiece in just a few easy steps. Get ready to wow your taste buds and anyone lucky enough to join your table!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly, skin-on
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- Prepare the pork belly: Clean and pat dry with paper towels. Score the skin gently in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
- Season: Rub olive oil over the pork belly, then evenly sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for added flavor.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set the temperature to 400°F and preheat for 5 minutes.
- Cook: Place the pork belly skin-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
- Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest: Let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
- Slice and serve: Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve with your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes.
How to Prepare
To prepare this dish, focus on getting the pork belly as dry as possible before seasoning. This ensures a crackling crust. Use sharp knives to score the skin—this step helps the fat render properly, resulting in crispy goodness. Generously rub the seasoning into every crevice for maximum flavor. The air fryer does the rest of the magic, evenly cooking the pork belly to perfection. No flipping during resting—just let the meat settle to enhance its juicy interior.
Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Cooking: 30 minutes
- Resting: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes*
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people as a main dish or 6 as an appetizer.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen pork belly for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for even results.
2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
3. Can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely! The ingredients are keto-friendly. Pair with low-carb veggies or a fresh salad.
4. Do I need to score the skin?
Yes, scoring helps release fat and creates a crackling skin. Use a sharp knife for precision.
5. What side dishes go well with air fryer pork belly?
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a tangy coleslaw for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Pork Belly is a culinary treasure for those seeking flavor-packed, crispy dishes without the hassle of traditional frying methods. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of juicy tenderness and crackling skin, making it ideal for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Whether served as a main course or shared as an appetizer, this pork belly delivers a rich, savory experience in every bite. Try this recipe today and elevate your cooking game to new, delicious heights! Bon appétit!
