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These air fryer pork belly bites have become my secret weapon for amazing appetizers. I discovered this method when I wanted the delicious crispy texture of deep fried pork belly without all the mess and extra oil. The air fryer creates the most incredible crispy outside while keeping the inside perfectly tender and juicy. Everyone who tries them can't believe they're not deep fried.
Why The Air Fryer Works Magic
I love how the air fryer gives these bites that amazing restaurant style crunch without having to deal with hot oil or greasy cleanup. Plus they come out a bit lighter than traditional fried pork belly but still have all that rich delicious flavor. It's become my favorite way to make them whether I'm cooking for a party or just craving a special treat.
Your Shopping List
- Pork Belly: 1 1/2 pounds of pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces. Look for fresh or thawed pork belly from a grocery store or butcher; refrigerate briefly to firm it up for easier cutting.
- Seasonings: Your choice of spices to coat the pork belly, enhancing its natural flavors while creating a crispy crust.
Let's Start Cooking
- Cut The Pork Belly
- Slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces. If thawed to room temperature, refrigerate briefly to firm it up for easier cutting.
- Season The Pork Belly
- Coat the pieces evenly with your chosen seasoning mix, ensuring all sides are well covered.
- Cook In The Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork belly bites in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 18-22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crisping.
- Bake Option
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, arrange the pork belly bites in a single layer, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 42-45 minutes, flipping halfway through.
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About Pork Belly
If you're new to cooking with pork belly you're in for a treat. It's basically uncured bacon taken straight from the pig's underside. The meat is incredibly rich and tender making it perfect for these bites. I often buy extra when it's on sale and keep it in the freezer for up to six months.
Choosing Your Air Fryer
After trying several air fryers I've fallen in love with my Ninja model. It crisps everything so evenly and it's super easy to use. If you're cooking for a crowd you might want to go with one of the larger models. The consistent cooking temperature really makes a difference in getting that perfect crispy exterior.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I choose good pork belly?
Look for pork belly with an even mix of fat and meat layers. Make sure it's fresh with no strong odors and has firm, pink meat.
- → Why pat the pork belly dry?
Drying the surface helps the seasoning stick better and ensures crispier results when cooking.
- → Can I make these in advance?
They're best served fresh and hot. While you can reheat them, they won't be quite as crispy as when first cooked.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to crisp them up.
- → Why do cooking times vary?
Size of pieces and air fryer capacity affect cooking time. Watch for golden brown color and crispy exterior as indicators of doneness.