Air-Fryer Pork Belly

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Equipment You’ll Need

  • Air fryer
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Paper towels
  • Cutting board

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork Belly

  1. Score the Skin: Using a sharp knife, carefully score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps the fat render and the skin crisp up nicely.
  2. Pat Dry: Use paper towels to pat the pork belly dry. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.

Step 2: Season the Pork Belly

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and five-spice powder. Mix well.
  2. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to get it into the scored skin.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures an even cooking temperature.

Step 4: Cook the Pork Belly

  1. Place the seasoned pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin side up. Make sure there is enough space for air to circulate around the meat.
  2. Cook the pork belly at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C).
  3. If the skin isn’t crispy enough at the end of the cooking time, you can increase the temperature to 425°F (220°C) and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

  1. Once cooked, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
  2. Slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces and serve as desired.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and seasonings will enhance the flavor of the pork belly.
  • Don’t Overcrowd: If your air fryer is small, consider cooking the pork belly in batches to ensure even cooking.
  • Check the Temperature: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your pork is cooked to perfection.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore its crispiness.

Variations and Swaps

  • Different Seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different spice blends, such as Italian seasoning or Cajun spices, to create unique flavors.
  • Sauces: Serve with dipping sauces like hoisin, BBQ, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.

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