How Do I Cook Pork Belly In An Air Fryer: Recipe & Tips

The question of “How do I cook pork belly in an air fryer?” is best answered with a simple: carefully! But there’s so much more to it than that. Cooking pork belly in an air fryer is a fantastic way to achieve incredibly crispy skin and tender, juicy meat with minimal effort. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect crispy pork belly air fryer every time, from choosing the right cut to achieving that coveted crackling.

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Why Air Fry Pork Belly?

Air frying pork belly offers several advantages over traditional cooking methods:

• Crispier Skin: The circulating hot air helps to render the fat evenly, resulting in ultra-crispy skin.
• Faster Cooking: Air frying is generally faster than oven roasting.
• Less Mess: Air fryers contain splatters and grease better than stovetop frying.
• Healthier (Sort Of): While still indulgent, air frying allows fat to drip away from the pork belly.

Choosing the Right Pork Belly

Selecting the right pork belly is crucial for a successful dish. Here’s what to look for:

• Skin: The skin should be smooth, firm, and free of blemishes.
• Meat: Look for a good ratio of meat to fat. Too much fat can make the pork belly greasy, while too little can result in dry meat.
• Thickness: Aim for a pork belly that is at least 1.5 inches thick. This will help ensure that the meat remains moist while the skin crisps.
• Freshness: Buy pork belly from a reputable butcher or grocery store, and ensure it’s fresh.

Preparing the Pork Belly

Proper preparation is key to achieving that perfect crispy pork belly air fryer.

Scoring the Skin

Scoring the skin is essential for rendering the fat and creating crispy crackling.

• Why score? Scoring allows heat to penetrate the skin more effectively, helping it to dry out and crisp up. It also prevents the pork belly from curling up during cooking.
• How to score: Use a sharp knife or a box cutter to score the skin in a crosshatch pattern. Be careful not to cut into the meat. Aim for scores that are about ¼ inch deep and ½ inch apart.
• Alternative: While scoring helps, you can still make air fryer pork belly without scoring. The skin might not be as crispy, but it will still be delicious. Just be sure to pat the skin very dry.

Drying the Skin

Drying the skin is just as important as scoring.

• The salt method: Generously salt the skin of the pork belly with coarse sea salt. The salt will draw out moisture from the skin. Place the pork belly uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
• Patting dry: Before cooking, rinse off the salt and thoroughly pat the skin dry with paper towels. The drier the skin, the crispier it will get.

Air Fryer Pork Belly Recipe

This easy air fryer pork belly recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound pork belly, skin scored
• 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon five-spice powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Belly: Score the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern.
2. Salt and Dry: Generously salt the skin with coarse sea salt. Refrigerate uncovered for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
3. Rinse and Dry Again: Rinse off the salt and pat the skin very dry with paper towels.
4. Season: In a small bowl, combine five-spice powder (if using), black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the mixture all over the meat side of the pork belly.
5. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
6. Air Fry: Place the pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin side up.
   • Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
   • Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Check frequently to avoid burning.
7. Rest: Remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Recipe Variations

• Air Fryer Pork Belly Slices: For how to air fry pork belly slices, simply cut the pork belly into ½-inch thick slices and follow the same cooking instructions. The cooking time will be shorter, around 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
• Air Fryer Pork Belly Burnt Ends: After cooking the pork belly, cut it into 1-inch cubes. Toss the cubes in your favorite BBQ sauce and return them to the air fryer. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and the edges are slightly charred. These air fryer pork belly burnt ends are a delicious appetizer or snack.

Air Fryer Pork Belly Time and Temperature

Finding the right air fryer pork belly time and air fryer pork belly temperature is key to a perfect outcome.

• Initial High Heat: Starting at a high temperature (400°F/200°C) helps to quickly render the fat and initiate the crisping process.
• Lower Temperature for Even Cooking: Reducing the temperature (350°F/175°C) allows the meat to cook through without burning the skin.
• Cooking Time: The total cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of the pork belly and the power of your air fryer. As a general guideline, cook for 40-50 minutes total.
• Checking for Doneness: The skin should be golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature of the meat should reach 190-200°F (88-93°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Air Fryer Pork Belly Marinade

A air fryer pork belly marinade can add extra flavor and tenderness to the meat. Here’s a simple marinade recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
2. Place the pork belly in a resealable bag or container.
3. Pour the marinade over the pork belly, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
5. Before cooking, remove the pork belly from the marinade and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the marinade.
6. Proceed with the air frying instructions.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Pork Belly

Here are some additional tips to help you achieve the best air fryer pork belly:

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cook the pork belly in a single layer to ensure even cooking and crisping. If necessary, cook in batches.
• Use a rack: If your air fryer has a rack, use it to elevate the pork belly and allow air to circulate underneath.
• Flip the pork belly: Flipping the pork belly halfway through cooking can help ensure even cooking and crisping.
• Monitor the cooking process: Keep a close eye on the pork belly as it cooks, and adjust the temperature or cooking time as needed to prevent burning. Every air fryer is different.
• Let it rest: Allowing the pork belly to rest for 10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
• Crisp It Up (If Needed): If the skin isn’t as crispy as you’d like after the initial cooking time, increase the temperature back to 400°F (200°C) for a few more minutes, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

Air-fried pork belly is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As a main course: Serve sliced pork belly with rice, noodles, or roasted vegetables.
• In bao buns: Fill steamed bao buns with sliced pork belly, pickled vegetables, and hoisin sauce.
• In tacos: Use pork belly as a filling for tacos, topped with salsa, cilantro, and lime.
• In salads: Add crispy pork belly to salads for a savory and crunchy element.
• As an appetizer: Serve cubed pork belly with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or mustard.

Troubleshooting

• Skin isn’t crispy: Make sure the skin is thoroughly dried before cooking. You can also try increasing the cooking time or temperature slightly. Ensure the skin is scored properly.
• Pork belly is dry: Don’t overcook the pork belly. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and remove it from the air fryer when it reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C). A marinade can also help retain moisture.
• Pork belly is burnt: Reduce the cooking temperature and keep a closer eye on the pork belly as it cooks. Consider lowering the initial high-heat time.
• Smoky Smell: The high fat content can create a smoky smell. Ensure your air fryer is clean and well-ventilated. Cooking in batches can also help.

Is Air Fried Pork Belly Healthy?

While air frying allows some fat to drip away, pork belly is still a fatty cut of meat. It should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Air Fryer Pork Belly Without Scoring

While scoring is generally recommended for optimal crispiness, you can still cook pork belly in the air fryer without scoring the skin. The skin may not be as uniformly crispy, but it will still be flavorful and enjoyable. Be extra diligent about drying the skin thoroughly.

Finding the Best Air Fryer Pork Belly

The best air fryer pork belly is one that is cooked to perfection, with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. By following the tips and recipe in this guide, you can consistently achieve delicious results in your air fryer. Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to find your favorite flavor combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use frozen pork belly? Yes, but you’ll need to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat it very dry after thawing.
• What if my air fryer is a different size? Adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smaller air fryers may require shorter cooking times.
• How do I store leftover pork belly? Store leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I reheat pork belly in the air fryer? Yes, reheat it at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook it.
• What is the ideal internal temperature of pork belly? The ideal internal temperature is 190-200°F (88-93°C) for optimal tenderness.
• Is it necessary to score the skin? Scoring helps to render the fat and create crispy crackling, but it is not strictly necessary.
• Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the pork belly? Yes, you can add vegetables such as onions, carrots, or potatoes to the air fryer during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.
• What is the best way to clean my air fryer after cooking pork belly? Remove any excess grease and food particles. Wash the basket and other removable parts with warm, soapy water. For stubborn grease, you can use a non-abrasive scrub brush.
• Can I use different seasonings? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs, spices, and rubs.
• How do I prevent the pork belly from sticking to the air fryer basket? Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray before placing the pork belly inside.

Conclusion

Air frying pork belly is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy this delicious cut of meat. With the right preparation, cooking time, and temperature, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the satisfying crunch of crispy pork belly skin!