how to cook pork belly in air fryer
Introduction
In this article, we will learn how to cook delicious and crispy pork belly using an air fryer. Air frying is a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it requires little to no oil. With the right cooking technique, you can achieve juicy and tender pork belly with a perfectly crispy skin. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you will need:
- 2 pounds of pork belly
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
Step 1: Preparing the Pork Belly
Start by patting the pork belly dry with paper towels. This will help ensure a crispy skin. Next, use a sharp knife to score the skin of the pork belly in a crosshatch pattern. Be careful not to cut too deep into the meat. This step will allow the fat to render and help the skin become crispy during cooking.
Step 2: Seasoning the Pork Belly
In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the pork belly, making sure to coat it evenly. Let the seasoned pork belly sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Preheating the Air Fryer
While the pork belly is resting, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that the air fryer is hot enough to cook the pork belly properly and achieve a crispy skin.
Step 4: Air Frying the Pork Belly
Place the seasoned pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin-side up. Make sure to leave some space between the individual pieces to allow for proper air circulation. Cook the pork belly in the air fryer for 25-30 minutes, flipping it halfway through the cooking process. This will help ensure even cooking and a crispy skin on all sides.
Step 5: Checking for Doneness
After the initial cooking time, check the internal temperature of the pork belly using a meat thermometer. It should read 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. If the pork belly has not reached this temperature, continue cooking for an additional few minutes until it does.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
Once the pork belly is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish. Slice the pork belly into desired portions and serve it hot. It pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or your favorite side dishes.
Conclusion
Using an air fryer to cook pork belly is a convenient and healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. By following these simple steps, you can achieve perfectly cooked pork belly with a crispy skin that is sure to impress. Experiment with different seasonings and serve it with your favorite accompaniments for a delicious and satisfying meal.