Air Fryer Pork Belly

I've made these crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites many times, and each time, they are 100% amazing. If you love pork belly bites that are full of flavor, with a crispy coating, and juicy tender, meat, then this is a must-try pork belly recipe. It's the best!

SUPER CRISPY AIR FRYER PORK BELLY RECIPE

Pork belly bites are like little bites of heaven because they simply melt in your mouth. These crispy skin bites are nuggets of pure decadence that everyone will enjoy. 

Not only are these pork belly bites super crispy, but the meat is juicy and tender and full of flavor.

This recipe can be used as an appetizer for any type of gathering—it's that versatile. You can make these as little snacks throughout your day or alongside vegetables or rice for a weeknight meal.

Want to make these fast? Using your air fryer is the best way to make this recipe quickly.

Because pork belly bites are easy to prepare and air fry in just minutes, they are a perfect fast meal for the family or a delicious filling meal for unexpected company.

Air frying is also much easier than deep frying. You don't have to wait for the oil to heat up and worry about the extra fats and calories with oil.

Why? Because the air fryer cooks with a circulating fan and heating element that cooks foods by circulating the hot air. It's by far the easiest way!

INGREDIENTS FOR CRISPY PORK BELLY

HOW TO MAKE CRISPY PORK BELLY IN THE AIR FRYER

STEP 1 - Preheat the air fryer to 400°F/200°C for 3 - 4 minutes.

STEP 2 - Combine the oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, pepper, and paprika in a large bowl. Set bowl aside.

STEP 3 - Place the pork belly on a cutting board and pat dry using a paper towel. Using a sharp knife, cut the pork into 1-inch cubes.

STEP 4 - Place the pieces of pork belly into the seasoned oil mixture and toss the pieces, making sure to evenly cover all of the pork belly pieces.

STEP 5 - Spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray and place the seasoned pork belly cubes in a single layer into the preheated air fryer basket.

STEP 6 - Air fry pork belly bites for 18-20 minutes. Shake and flip them a couple of times throughout the cooking process. Serve immediately.

KEY TIPS FOR CRISPY PORK BELLY BITES IN THE AIR FRYER

1. Dry the Skin: Pat the pork belly skin dry with paper towels before cooking. You can also leave it uncovered in the fridge overnight to further dry out the skin, which helps achieve a crispy texture.
2. Score the Skin: Lightly score the skin with a sharp knife in a crisscross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This allows the fat to render and helps the skin crisp up evenly.
3. Baste the Meat: Baste the meat side with its own rendered fat or marinade to keep it moist and tender while cooking.
4. Single Layer: Ensure the pork belly pieces are not overcrowded, allowing hot air to circulate freely for even cooking and crisping.
5. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the pork belly to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring tender, juicy meat.

FAQ'S

What dishes can be made with this recipe?

Pork belly bites can be served as a main dish with coconut jasmine rice, with a stir fry of fresh grilled vegetables or on top of some hot buttered noodles. However, they also make a wonderful appetizer or snack during the week or for a special weekend get together along with a favorite dipping sauce.

What dipping sauces are best?

These pork bites are delicious with sweet chili sauce, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or spicy Asian sauce. Or pick your favorite!

What additional seasonings can I use to flavor these?

You can use a family favorite homemade dry rub, add a little onion powder, minced garlic cloves, and green onion mix. For heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, chipotle powder, or a tablespoon of maple syrup for extra sweetness. 

How do I store leftovers?

Because these are so yummy, you probably won't have much leftover pork belly. But, if you do, you can safely store them. Store pork belly slices in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. If you are planning to freeze them, wrap them in aluminum foil, and then place them inside an airtight container or freezer storage bag for up to 3 months.

Where can I buy pork belly?

Any local grocery store near you should carry pork belly in their meat department. If you do not see it on display, ask the butcher; they may have it in the back area. Local farms or warehouse-type and Asian grocery stores will also carry it.

When choosing the cuts of pork belly, check for cuts that have an equal amount of fat and meat for flavor and texture.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Chicken Breast
• Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin
• Easy Air Fryer Ribs
• Air Fryer Bacon
• Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

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