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Air Fryer Pork Belly: The Ultimate Guide for Perfect Crackling

There’s something magical about biting into crispy pork belly—crunchy crackling giving way to juicy, tender meat. If you’ve ever thought making restaurant-quality Air Fryer Pork Belly at home was impossible, I’m here to prove you wrong. This recipe will have your taste buds singing and your friends begging for the secret. Ready to unlock the potential of your air fryer? Let’s dive in! 🐷✨

December 3, 2024
Air fryer pork belly cooked and crispy
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Why Air Fryer Pork Belly is a Game-Changer

Air fryers aren’t just a trendy gadget—they’re a revolution! For pork belly lovers, it’s a dream machine that delivers perfect crackling every time without the mess of deep-frying or the hassle of oven-watching. Using an air fryer guarantees:

    • Even Cooking: The circulating hot air crisps up the skin while keeping the meat moist and tender.

    • Faster Results: Achieve that golden crunch in half the time of traditional methods.

    • Healthier Options: No need for gallons of oil—just let the pork’s natural fat work its magic!

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Pork Belly

  1. The Fresher, the Better
    Fresh pork belly is key. Look for a piece with even layers of meat and fat, and skin free from blemishes or damage. Bonus tip: Ask your butcher to score the skin for you if you’re not confident doing it at home.
  2. Dry is Divine
    Moisture is the enemy of crispy skin! Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels, then leave it uncovered in the fridge overnight. This step is non-negotiable for that iconic crunch.
  3. Salt is Your Secret Weapon
    A generous sprinkle of salt not only seasons the meat but also draws out excess moisture from the skin. Use coarse sea salt for best results—it’s easier to spread and enhances the flavour without overpowering it.
  4. Don’t Skip the Foil Wrap
    Wrapping the meat ensures that the crackling forms perfectly without drying out the pork belly itself. This step also makes cleanup a breeze.
  5. Know Your Air Fryer
    Every air fryer is a bit different, so keep an eye on the crackling during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Some models may need slightly more or less time to get that perfect crunch.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Pork Belly

Pork belly is versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of sides:

    • Asian-Inspired Feast: Serve with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed bok choy, and a tangy dipping sauce made from soy, vinegar, and chili. 

    • Classic Roast: Pair with roasted potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, and apple sauce for a traditional Sunday spread. 

    • Light & Fresh: A simple salad of rocket, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic glaze balances the richness of the pork belly. 

Don’t forget your favorite beverage! Crisp apple cider or a dry Riesling pairs perfectly with this Air Fryer Pork Belly.

Storing and Reheating Your Pork Belly

Let’s be real—leftovers are rare with this Air Fryer Pork Belly! But if you find yourself with extra, here’s how to store and reheat it like a pro:

Storage:

    • Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
    • For longer storage, freeze the pork belly in individual portions wrapped tightly in foil.

Reheating:

    • Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 5–7 minutes to revive the crispy skin without overcooking the meat.

    • Avoid the microwave—it’ll ruin that glorious crunch!

Air fryer pork belly cooked and sliced

Other Recipes to Try

Once you’ve mastered Air Fryer Pork Belly, why stop there? Here are some other dishes to add to your repertoire:

Share Your Masterpiece!

I’d love to see your creations. Snap a photo of your crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly and share it with me on Instagram @steph_cooks_stuff. 📸✨ Let’s spread the pork belly love!

Now, it’s your turn to dazzle your family and friends with this easy and impressive dish. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to wow everyone at the table. Get your air fryer ready, and let’s make some magic happen!

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Air fryer pork belly cooked and crispy

Air Fryer Pork Belly

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Description

Hey food lovers! 🙋‍♀️ Ever dreamt of making the crispiest, juiciest pork belly at home? Dream no more! I’ve perfected the ultimate **Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Recipe** that guarantees mouthwatering results every time. 

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 fresh piece of pork belly
  • Salt to sprinkle some magic

Instructions

  1. **Prep it Right**: Secure that freshest pork belly and let it chill in your fridge, uncovered, overnight. This dries out the surface just enough for that dreamy crackle. 🌙
  2. **Salt Bae Time**: Whip that pork belly out, and salt it like you mean it. Season generously! 🧂✨
  3. **Wrap it Up**: Snugly wrap your pork belly in aluminum foil to keep that meat moist and let the skin get its crisp on. 🎁
  4. **Air Fryer Magic**: Air fry at 160°C and let your pork belly dance in there for an hour. The outcome? A skin so crispy and meat so tender, it’s like a foodie’s dream come true. 🔥
  5. **Serve & Impress**: Slice, serve, and watch those amazed faces! Don’t forget your favourite sides. 😋

Equipment

  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 60
  • Category: Recipes
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: Australian

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