Air-Fried Pulled Pork: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Yes, you can cook pulled pork in an air fryer! This cooking method yields tender, juicy, and flavourful pulled pork in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods like slow roasting or smoking. The air fryer's magic also extends to the cleanup process, which is reportedly a breeze due to less mess and splatter. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, anyone can make this mouthwatering dish.

Choosing the right cut of meat

The pork shoulder, also known as the pork butt, is a versatile cut that can be cooked low and slow in the air fryer until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. This cut is well-suited for pulled pork as it has the right balance of fat and meat, ensuring a tender and tasty result. When selecting the pork shoulder or butt, look for pieces with a good amount of marbling, as this indicates a higher fat content, which will enhance the flavour and moisture of the dish.

While the pork shoulder and butt are the most recommended cuts for pulled pork, alternatives such as the pork loin, chuck roast, or pork ribs can also be used. The pork loin, in particular, has a similar fat content to the shoulder and butt, making it a suitable substitute. However, it may be important to note that the loin is a leaner cut, so adjustments in cooking time and temperature may be necessary to achieve the desired tenderness.

When purchasing the meat, it is essential to look for fresh, high-quality cuts. The meat should have a bright colour, with a good amount of marbling, and be free from excessive moisture or discolouration. Choosing a well-marbled cut with a higher fat content will ensure that your pulled pork is juicy and tender, as the fat will render and baste the meat during cooking, enhancing its flavour and texture.

Additionally, when preparing the meat, it is crucial to trim any large chunks of excess fat to prevent greasiness in the final dish. However, it is advisable to leave some fat on the meat to contribute to the overall moisture and flavour of the pulled pork. By selecting the right cut of meat and following these simple preparation tips, you'll be well on your way to creating mouthwatering pulled pork in the convenience of your own air fryer.

Preparing the meat

Firstly, select the right cut of meat. A boneless pork shoulder or pork butt is an excellent choice as it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when cooked slowly in the air fryer. If you're using a larger cut, cut it into smaller portions, as this will ensure it fits better in the air fryer basket.

Next, prepare your pork by trimming any excess fat. Leaving a little fat will help keep the meat moist and flavourful, but removing large chunks will prevent greasiness. You can then cut the pork into 4 to 5 equal-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.

Now, it's time to season the meat. In a small bowl, mix olive oil with your chosen pork seasoning or a blend of spices such as brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the pork generously with this mixture, coating all sides and pressing it into the meat. This spice rub will infuse your pork with flavour.

For an extra flavour boost, you can also try a dry brine or marinade. Place your seasoned pork in a plastic bag, add olive oil and liquid smoke, seal the bag, and shake to coat the meat. Leave it to brine or marinate for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.

Finally, place your seasoned pork in the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded. If you're cooking a large batch, you may need to cook in batches or use an alternative cooking method for some of the meat. You can also add a little water to the bottom of the air fryer to help keep the pork moist during cooking.

Your meat is now ready for the air fryer! Remember to follow food safety guidelines and ensure your pork reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F to be considered safe to eat.

Cooking the meat

To cook pulled pork in an air fryer, you will first need to prepare the meat. A boneless pork shoulder or pork butt is the best cut of meat for pulled pork as it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when cooked low and slow. Trim any excess fat, leaving some for moisture and flavour. Then, cut the pork into 4 to 5 equal-sized chunks.

Next, you will need to make a dry rub for the meat. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and your chosen pork seasoning. For a classic spice rub, use brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the dry rub mixture all over the pork, covering it completely.

Place the seasoned pork in an air fryer-safe pan or lined basket. Pour 1/2 cup of water or pineapple juice into the bottom of the air fryer under the basket. Set the air fryer to 350°F (some recipes suggest a temperature of 370°F or 180°C) and cook for about 60 minutes. Then, flip the pork over and cook for an additional 60-90 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 195-205°F and the pork is very soft. You can check this by piercing it with a knife or using a meat thermometer.

Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Then, shred the pork using two forks.

Resting the meat

During this time, the juices will settle, and the meat will cool slightly, making it easier to handle. Resting the meat will also give you a chance to prepare any side dishes or sauces to accompany your meal.

After resting, use two forks to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. This technique is a quick and easy way to pull the meat apart, and the forks will help you avoid burning your hands. You can also use a meat hook for shredding. Discard any large chunks of fat that you come across, but remember that some fat will help keep the meat moist and add flavor.

Once the pork is shredded, it is ready to be mixed with your chosen sauce and returned to the air fryer to heat through and become sticky. Alternatively, you can serve the shredded pork with the sauce on the side.

Reheating the meat

Once you've cooked your pulled pork, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you have a large batch of leftovers, you can freeze the pulled pork for later use. To freeze, portion it into suitable containers and use within three months.

When you're ready to reheat your pulled pork, the best way is to use the air fryer again. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C), and place the pulled pork in the air fryer basket. Reheat for 5-10 minutes or until the pulled pork is heated through and crispy on the outside.

You can also reheat your pulled pork in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the pulled pork in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pulled pork is heated through.

Alternatively, you can reheat your pulled pork in a microwave-safe dish in 1-minute intervals until warm, or in a saucepan on the stove until warmed through. Make sure your pulled pork is piping hot all the way through before serving.

Frequently asked questions