How to Cook Perfectly Crispy Pork Belly Slices in an Air Fryer

Pork belly is a deliciously fatty and flavorful cut of meat that has become increasingly popular in recent years. When cooked properly, pork belly transforms into tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat topped with a layer of crispy, crackling skin.

One of the best ways to achieve this balance of soft and crispy pork belly is by cooking it in an air fryer. Air fryers use super heated air and a fan to circulate the hot air and cook food This method allows the pork belly to cook quickly while rendering out fat and getting the top layer crispy and golden brown

Cooking pork belly in the air fryer results in pork belly that’s far superior to oven baking. The circulating air crisps up the fatty top layer so much better than a static oven. Air fried pork belly also cooks much faster than traditional methods. You can have perfect restaurant-worthy pork belly in under 30 minutes with an air fryer.

Benefits of Cooking Pork Belly in an Air Fryer

There are several benefits to cooking pork belly in an air fryer versus other methods

• Super Crispy Skin – The hot air circulates around the pork belly from all sides, crisping up the fatty skin on top. This results in pork crackling with the perfect crunch.

• Tender and Juicy Interior – The inside of the pork belly slices come out moist and succulent. The fat renders out while the meat stays nice and juicy.

• Cooks Quickly – Pork belly cooks in a fraction of the time in an air fryer as it does in the oven. You can have crispy pork belly in about 25-30 minutes.

• Easy Cleanup – Air fryers contain mess and splatter. You won’t have to deal with a pork belly stained oven after cooking.

• Versatile – Air fryer pork belly can be used in many recipes from appetizers to main courses. Fry it plain then chop up to add to dishes.

How to Choose Good Pork Belly for Air Frying

Buying quality pork belly is the first step to air fryer success. Here’s what to look for:

• Pork Belly Slices – Look for cuts that are sliced 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 inch thick. Thinner slices will cook quicker. Or slice a slab yourself.

• Meat to Fat Ratio – Look for belly with a higher ratio of meat to fat. This gives you the best of both worlds.

• Skin On or Off – Pork belly with the skin on will get crisper in the air fryer. But skinless works too if you prefer.

• Freshness – Look for pork belly within the sell-by date and no discoloration or smell.

Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Pork Belly Slices

Follow this simple step-by-step guide to cook pork belly slices to crispy, fatty perfection in your air fryer:

Ingredients:

• Pork belly slices, about 3/4 pound
• 1 Tablespoon oil
• Seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

1. Pat pork belly slices dry thoroughly with paper towels.

2. Drizzle slices with oil on both sides and rub to evenly coat.

3. Sprinkle seasonings generously over the oiled pork belly. Press lightly so they adhere.

4. Arrange slices in a single layer in air fryer basket, without overlapping.

5. Air fry at 390°F for 12-15 minutes.

6. Flip pork belly slices and air fry 12 more minutes.

7. Check for doneness by taking temperature (cook to at least 145°F) or visual cue of crispy skin.

8. Allow to rest 5 minutes before serving.

That’s truly all there is to it! Perfectly cooked, crispy pork belly from your air fryer in under 30 minutes.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Pork Belly

Use these tips and tricks for the crispiest, most flavorful air fried pork belly every time:

• Pat the pork belly really well before seasoning – any moisture will make it steam not crisp.

• Don’t crowd the basket – give the slices room to cook evenly.

• Brush on a glaze or sauce the last 3-5 minutes only to avoid burning.

• Turn the pork belly just once during cooking for even crisping.

• Let it rest before eating so juices redistribute.

• Cook a bit longer for extra crispy crackling.

• Add a touch of brown sugar to the rub for sweetness.

• Spray oil works well but brushing gives the best coverage.

• Cook slices from frozen using same method but add 5 minutes to total time.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Pork Belly

The possibilities are endless when it comes to serving crispy, melt-in-your-mouth air fryer pork belly. Here are just a few delicious ideas:

• Chop up and add to fried rice or ramen noodle bowls

• Make pork belly tacos with slaw and bbq sauce

• Serve over a bed of garlic mashed potatoes or cauliflower rice

• Pile into slider buns for tasty little sandwiches

• Add to a leafy salad for a protein and crunch boost

• Layer into a bowl with rice and pour on a spicy Thai peanut sauce

• Float in hearty soups like ramen or vegetable noodle soup

However you choose to use it, air fryer pork belly adds a richness and fabulous crunch to any dish. It’s so quick and easy to make, this crispy pork treat can be part of your regular recipe rotation.

So next time you are looking for an appetizer or main that is budget-friendly and full of flavor, reach for the pork belly and your air fryer. In no time at all you’ll be biting into tender, juicy meat topped with crispy, crackly perfection.