If you’re anything like me, you love a good meal that leaves everyone around the table smiling and asking for seconds. This air fry pork belly recipe is just that dish! Picture enjoying tender, juicy pork belly with the crispiest skin, paired with fresh cucumber salad and steamed jasmine rice or even a zesty slaw.
Trust me; it’s a match made in culinary heaven. Perfect for a relaxed get-together or an extravagant Sunday dinner, this pork belly will steal the spotlight. Let’s dive right into how you can bring this feast to your kitchen!
Crispy pork belly is a dish that’s become increasingly popular, and for good reason! It’s succulent, versatile, and incredibly satisfying.
While traditional cooking methods can take hours, using an air fryer cuts down on time and mess, while still yielding that rich flavor and crisp texture we all crave. This recipe showcases how simple it can be to make a mouthwatering pork belly right at home.
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What is Air Fry Pork Belly Recipe?
The air fry pork belly recipe is a modern twist on a classic dish. It involves air-frying a slab of pork belly, which is the belly cut of the pig known for its high fat content and tenderness. The skin is seasoned and cooked until it becomes wonderfully crispy, while the meat remains juicy and flavorful. Using an air fryer allows for quick cooking that’s also healthier, as it reduces the amount of oil needed compared to traditional frying.
Why This Recipe Works?
This recipe works exceptionally well due to the simplicity and the method used. When cooked in an air fryer, the heated air circulates around the pork, which helps render the fat and ensures even cooking. The layers of seasoning create a vibrant flavor while the cooking technique guarantees that delicious, crunchy skin everyone raves about. Plus, with prep that takes only minutes, you can relish a gourmet meal without the fuss.
How Does It Taste Like?
You can expect an explosion of flavor with every bite. The savory meat paired with the pleasantly crispy and salty skin offers a delightful contrast. The seasoning—salt, white pepper, and five spice powder—gives it a nuanced kick that beautifully complements the rich pork flavor. Imagine savoring a dish where the softness of tender meat meets the satisfying crackle of flawless skin. It’s simply scrumptious!
What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Air Fry Pork Belly Recipe Variations?
What sets this air fry pork belly recipe apart is not just the simplicity of cooking but also the careful balance of flavors achieved with fresh ingredients. Unlike many recipes that rely heavily on premade sauces, this one uses a straightforward blend of spices and vinegar that adds depth without masking the natural flavors of the pork. Plus, the focus on crisping the skin to perfection makes it a standout option for anyone who loves a delightful crunch with their meal.
The Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this irresistible air fry pork belly recipe:
– 3 pounds pork belly (skin on)
– 1 tablespoon five spice powder
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt (divided)
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– ½ tablespoon sugar
– ½ tablespoon white pepper
– 1 Himalayan pink salt (for an extra flavor boost)
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
– 1 tablespoon neutral oil
Feel free to adjust portions according to your taste preferences—cooking should always reflect what you love!
Ingredients From : cjeatsrecipes.com
How to Make Air Fry Pork Belly Recipe?
Ready to impress your family or guests? Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting this delightful dish. Roll up your sleeves; it’s time to make some magic in the kitchen!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Belly
Using a sharp knife, carefully score the meat side of the pork belly. Make ½-inch deep cuts lengthwise. This allows the flavors to penetrate and promotes even cooking. Make sure you don’t cut through the skin.
Step 2: Create the Spice Paste
In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, white pepper, five spice powder, sugar, and Shaoxing wine to form a paste. This blend is the flavor base for the meat and will give your pork belly a delightful kick.
Step 3: Season the Pork
Once your paste is ready, spread it evenly over the meat side of the pork belly. Be careful to avoid getting any on the skin, as this will inhibit crisping later.
Step 4: Prepare the Skin
Take a paper towel and thoroughly pat the skin of the pork belly dry. This will help the skin achieve that coveted crispness. Use a skewer or a sharp knife to poke multiple holes in the skin. Make sure to only puncture the skin and fat, avoiding penetrating too deeply into the meat.
Step 5: Set Up for Air Frying
Cut the pork belly into pieces that can fit comfortably in your air fryer. Create a foil frame around the pork belly, leaving a ½ inch gap from the edges. This will prevent the seasonings from spilling over during the cooking process.
Step 6: Salt and Vinegar Treatment
Brush the skin of the pork belly with white vinegar. Next, sprinkle kosher salt over the skin, ensuring it’s covered. This can help draw out moisture further, contributing to that crispy skin.
Step 7: Initial Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 250°F (120°C). Place the pork belly inside and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the salt has dried out completely. This step is crucial for extracting moisture from the skin.
Step 8: Preparing for Final Crisping
After the initial cook, remove the salt and brush off any excess. Pat the skin dry one more time to maximize crispiness.
Step 9: Crisping the Skin
Now, it’s time to bring on the heat! Brush the skin with neutral oil, then increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C). Cook the pork belly for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Keep a close eye—begin checking at the 20-minute mark. If you notice any burning, cover that part with a small piece of foil and allow the rest to crisp up.
Notes
– Ensure your vinegar is fresh for maximum skin crispiness.
– Always pat the pork belly dry before seasoning. Excess moisture will compromise the texture.
– If you have a larger or smaller piece of pork belly, cooking times may vary. Monitor the doneness closely.
– Try varying the spices according to your taste—smoked paprika could add an interesting depth.
– If you can’t procure Shaoxing wine, consider substituting with dry sherry or even a splash of apple cider vinegar.
How Do You Store This Air Fry Pork Belly Recipe?
After feast time, you might have some leftovers—if you’re lucky! Store any remaining pork belly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheating is a breeze; pop it in an air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy goodness, or use the oven on a low setting.
Sides for Air Fry Pork Belly Recipe
Side dishes can elevate your pork belly experience. Consider these:
– Steamed Jasmine Rice: Perfect for balancing the richness of the pork, providing a satisfying base.
– Fresh Cucumber Salad: Add a refreshing crunch with thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
– Spicy Slaw: A shred of cabbage and carrots mixed with chili sauce or mayo can add a pop of color and flavor contrast.
– Grilled Asparagus: The earthy flavor of asparagus neatly complements the savory taste of pork belly.
– Garlic Green Beans: Cooked with a sprinkle of salt and a touch of garlic, these vibrant beans will brighten your plate.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
If you’re missing something from your ingredient list, here are substitutes to consider:
– Pork Belly: Use pork shoulder if you’re looking for a leaner option; it won’t be as crispy but retains flavor.
– Five Spice Powder: A mix of ground cinnamon, star anise, cloves, and a hint of ginger can provide a similar taste.
– Shaoxing Wine: Rice vinegar mixed with a bit of sugar and water can work wonders in a pinch.
– Neutral Oil: Use canola oil or grape seed oil if you don’t have neutral oil on hand.
– Kosher Salt: Table salt can substitute, but use half the amount since it packs a stronger punch.
Conclusion
So there you have it! This air fry pork belly recipe is a game-changer in terms of simplicity and flavor. It combines easily procured ingredients with minimal effort and promises a meal that will have everyone wanting more.
With crispy skin and juicy meat, you can’t go wrong. Trust me, add this recipe to your rotation, and you’ll have a delicious showstopper that will impress. Now, let’s get cooking!
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Air Fry Pork Belly Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Description
Crispy pork belly is a dish that’s become increasingly popular, and for good reason! It’s succulent, versatile, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredient
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Belly
-
Using a sharp knife, carefully score the meat side of the pork belly. Make ½-inch deep cuts lengthwise. This allows the flavors to penetrate and promotes even cooking. Make sure you don’t cut through the skin.
Step 2: Create the Spice Paste
-
In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of kosher salt, white pepper, five spice powder, sugar, and Shaoxing wine to form a paste. This blend is the flavor base for the meat and will give your pork belly a delightful kick.
Step 3: Season the Pork
-
Once your paste is ready, spread it evenly over the meat side of the pork belly. Be careful to avoid getting any on the skin, as this will inhibit crisping later.
Step 4: Prepare the Skin
-
Take a paper towel and thoroughly pat the skin of the pork belly dry. This will help the skin achieve that coveted crispness. Use a skewer or a sharp knife to poke multiple holes in the skin. Make sure to only puncture the skin and fat, avoiding penetrating too deeply into the meat.
Step 5: Set Up for Air Frying
-
Cut the pork belly into pieces that can fit comfortably in your air fryer. Create a foil frame around the pork belly, leaving a ½ inch gap from the edges. This will prevent the seasonings from spilling over during the cooking process.
Step 6: Salt and Vinegar Treatment
-
Brush the skin of the pork belly with white vinegar. Next, sprinkle kosher salt over the skin, ensuring it's covered. This can help draw out moisture further, contributing to that crispy skin.
Step 7: Initial Air Frying
-
Preheat your air fryer to 250°F (120°C). Place the pork belly inside and cook for about 30 minutes, or until the salt has dried out completely. This step is crucial for extracting moisture from the skin.
Step 8: Preparing for Final Crisping
-
After the initial cook, remove the salt and brush off any excess. Pat the skin dry one more time to maximize crispiness.
Step 9: Crisping the Skin
-
Now, it’s time to bring on the heat! Brush the skin with neutral oil, then increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C). Cook the pork belly for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Keep a close eye—begin checking at the 20-minute mark. If you notice any burning, cover that part with a small piece of foil and allow the rest to crisp up.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 60g93%
- Saturated Fat 22g111%
- Cholesterol 82mg28%
- Sodium 1632mg68%
- Total Carbohydrate 1g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.1g1%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 11g22%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Ensure your vinegar is fresh for maximum skin crispiness.
- Always pat the pork belly dry before seasoning. Excess moisture will compromise the texture.
- If you have a larger or smaller piece of pork belly, cooking times may vary. Monitor the doneness closely.
- Try varying the spices according to your taste—smoked paprika could add an interesting depth.
- If you can't procure Shaoxing wine, consider substituting with dry sherry or even a splash of apple cider vinegar.
