Easy & Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites

 The air fryer is a game-changer for cooking pork belly. It reduces the cooking time, eliminates the need for deep frying, and produces crispy results with less oil. Plus, it’s hassle-free and keeps your kitchen cleaner!

Ingredients

To make crispy air fryer pork belly bites, you'll need:

• 500g pork belly, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• Chili flakes or dipping sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Pork Belly:

Wash and pat the pork belly dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps achieve maximum crispiness.

Cut the pork belly into bite-sized cubes, ensuring they’re evenly sized for even cooking.

Season the Pork Belly:

In a mixing bowl, combine pork belly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika (if using), soy sauce, and oil. Toss well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for 3–5 minutes.

Cook the Pork Belly:

Arrange the pork belly cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece for proper air circulation.

Cook at 200°C (390°F) for 10 minutes. Shake the basket or turn the pieces halfway through for even browning.

Increase Crispiness:

After 10 minutes, increase the temperature to 220°C (430°F) and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until the pork belly is golden brown and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy:

Transfer the crispy pork belly bites to a serving plate. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like vinegar with chili, soy sauce with calamansi, or spicy mayo.

Tips for Perfect Pork Belly Bites

Dry the Pork Thoroughly:

Excess moisture can prevent the pork from crisping up properly.

Don’t Overcrowd the Basket:

Leave enough space between the pieces for the air fryer to circulate hot air effectively.

Adjust Cooking Time as Needed:

Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your pork belly pieces and the model of your air fryer.

Experiment with Flavors:

Add spices like cumin, chili powder, or a touch of honey for a sweet and spicy variation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.

Healthier Option: Less oil compared to traditional frying.

Crispy and Juicy: Perfectly crunchy exterior with a juicy interior.

Versatile: Great as a snack, topping, or paired with rice and vegetables.

Treat yourself to the deliciousness of these Easy & Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Bites. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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