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The Ultimate Guide to Air Fryer Crispy Pork Belly
Introduction
Dive into the world of air frying with a recipe that transforms pork belly into a succulent, crispy delight. This guide will walk you through creating a mouthwatering dish that rivals the best Chinese roast pork, all from the comfort of your kitchen. Embrace the simplicity and elegance of this cooking method for a result that's both delicious and visually stunning.
Ingredients List
3 pounds of pork belly, skin on
1/2 tablespoon kosher salt, for the meat
1/2 tablespoon white pepper
1/2 tablespoon five spice powder
1/2 tablespoon sugar
1/2 tablespoon Shaoxing wine
1 cup kosher salt, for the skin
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon neutral oil
Step by Step Cooking Instructions
Marinate the Pork: Mix 1/2 tablespoon each of kosher salt, white pepper, five spice powder, sugar, and Shaoxing wine. Rub this mixture on the meat side of the pork belly.
Prepare the Skin: Dry the skin thoroughly with paper towels. Poke holes across the skin using a sharp tool, avoiding piercing into the meat.
Apply Salt Crust: Encase the pork belly in a foil frame, leaving the skin exposed. Brush the skin with white vinegar, then cover it entirely with 1 cup of kosher salt.
First Air Fry Phase: Cook at 250°F for 30 minutes or until the salt crust hardens. Remove the pork, discard the salt, and brush off any residue.
Final Air Fry Phase: Brush the skin with neutral oil. Air fry at 400°F for 30-40 minutes, until the skin is crispy and puffed. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Pro Tips and Suggestions Tied to This Recipe
Selecting Pork Belly: Look for a cut with even layers of meat and fat for optimal texture and flavor.
Achieving Crisp Skin: Ensuring the skin is completely dry and adequately salted before air frying is crucial for that perfect crispiness.
Cooking Time Adjustments: Depending on your air fryer model, cooking times may vary. Keep a close eye during the final phase to avoid overcooking.
Interesting Alterations You May Want to Try
Spicy Twist: Add a bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate rosemary or thyme into the salt crust for an aromatic flavor.
Sweet Glaze: Brush the cooked pork belly with a honey-soy glaze during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a sweet and savory finish.
Key Takeaways and Calories
Calories: An average serving of crispy pork belly contains approximately 500-600 calories, making it a rich and indulgent dish best enjoyed in moderation.
Key Takeaway: The success of this recipe lies in the preparation of the pork skin and the careful monitoring during cooking. Achieving the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat is the ultimate goal.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Crispy Pork Belly recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and precise cooking techniques. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in the pleasure of good food, this dish is sure to impress. Remember, the journey to perfect crispy pork belly is as rewarding as the delicious outcome.
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