- Prepare the Pork Belly: Start by patting the pork belly dry with paper towels. Score the skin of the pork belly in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This step is crucial for achieving that ultimate crispy skin.
- Season the Pork Belly: Rub the skin side of the pork belly with apple cider vinegar, then sprinkle the coarse salt evenly over it. This will help draw out moisture, ensuring a crispier skin. Flip the pork belly and brush the meat side with olive oil, then evenly sprinkle the ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Chinese five-spice powder, if using. Let it sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature to allow the flavors to meld.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to starting the crisping process of the skin.
- Cook the Pork Belly: Place the pork belly skin-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook for 30 minutes at 400°F (200°C), then reduce the temperature to 325°F (165°C) and cook for another 20-30 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your pork belly and your air fryer model. You’re aiming for a golden, blistered skin and tender meat.
- Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, let the pork belly rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is moist and flavorful.
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces or strips, being sure to admire the crispy skin and tender meat. Serve as is or with your favorite dipping sauce, steamed rice, and a side of fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works:
The air fryer circulates hot air around the pork belly, cooking it evenly and rendering the fat without drying out the meat. The high initial temperature crisps up the skin beautifully, while lowering the temperature ensures the meat cooks through without becoming tough. The combination of spices and the use of apple cider vinegar not only enhance the flavor but also contribute to the texture of the pork belly, making each bite a delightful experience.
Conclusion:
This Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly recipe is a testament to the versatility and efficiency of air frying. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can achieve a dish that’s traditionally been considered complex and time-consuming. The result is irresistibly crispy skin and tender, flavorful meat that’s sure to satisfy any craving. So, why wait? Give this recipe a try and elevate your cooking game with the magic of air frying.