- Preparation:
- Start by scoring the pork belly skin in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps the skin to crisp up evenly.
- Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
- Seasoning:
- Rub the fine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (if using) on the meat side of the pork belly.
- Flip the pork belly and brush the skin with apple cider vinegar, then evenly sprinkle the coarse sea salt over the skin. The vinegar helps to break down the skin, making it extra crispy.
- Air-Frying:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Place the pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin-side up, and cook for 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the meat. Halfway through, check the pork and remove any excess fat that has rendered out.
- For the final touch, increase the temperature to 430°F (220°C) and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the skin is blistered and crispy to your liking.
- Resting and Serving:
- Once cooked, let the pork belly rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This ensures the juices redistribute, keeping the meat moist.
- Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve immediately. The pork belly is best enjoyed hot, with the skin crackling and the meat succulent and flavorful.
Tips for Perfect Air-Fryer Pork Belly:
- Dry Skin: Ensure the pork belly skin is as dry as possible before cooking. Use paper towels to pat it dry or leave it uncovered in the refrigerator for a few hours.
- Scoring: Carefully score the skin to help it crisp up evenly without cutting into the meat, which could dry it out.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. The key is to flavor the meat well while keeping the skin primarily salted for crispiness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthier Option: Enjoy the decadent taste of pork belly with less oil and fat compared to traditional frying methods.
- Crispy Yet Tender: Achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat, all in one dish.
- Quick and Easy: With the air fryer, you save time and effort, making this dish a convenient option for any day of the week.
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish, a side, or even as an indulgent snack during gatherings or special occasions.
Dive into this culinary delight and let the air-fryer pork belly be the star of your next meal. It’s not just about the ease and health benefits; it’s about experiencing pork belly like never before—crispy, juicy, and incredibly satisfying.