Air-Fried Bone-In Pork Loin: A Quick, Crispy Treat

You can definitely cook a bone-in pork loin in an air fryer! In fact, cooking pork loin in an air fryer is a great way to ensure the meat doesn't dry out. The high heat of the air fryer means the meat is exposed to the heat for less time, and it also gives the pork a nice browned crust.

You'll want to cook your pork loin at a high temperature—around 370°F to 400°F—and for somewhere between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on the weight of your joint. It's a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check that your pork has reached a safe internal temperature of 145°F.

Brining the pork loin

Brining is a great way to add flavour and moisture to lean meats like pork loin. To brine a pork loin, you'll need to make a standard brine solution using 4 tablespoons of kosher salt to 4 cups of cold water.

Place the pork loin in a zip-top bag or large bowl, fully submerging it in the brine solution. Put the pork in the fridge for a minimum of 1 hour and a maximum of 3 hours. After brining, discard the brine solution and pat the meat dry. There's no need to rinse the meat, but you should omit salt from the rest of the recipe as the pork loin will now be salted enough.

Marinating the pork chops

If you are looking for a more intense flavour, you can leave the pork chops in the marinade overnight in the refrigerator. However, remember to always pat the pork chops dry with paper towels before placing them in the air fryer, as excess marinade can create steam and affect the cooking process.

If marinating is not your style, you can also season the pork chops with a dry rub. A mixture of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt and pepper can be generously coated on the pork chops for a flavourful crust.

Cooking temperature and time

The cooking temperature and time for bone-in pork loin in an air fryer will depend on the weight of the joint and the desired level of doneness.

As a general rule, you should cook your pork loin for 12-14 minutes per pound, aiming for an internal temperature of 145°F for medium, and 160°F for well done.

For example, a 3-pound roast will take 35-45 minutes to cook. Start testing the temperature at 35 minutes and, if the outside starts to get too dark, reduce the heat to 300°F for the remainder of the cooking time.

For a smaller roast (under 3 pounds), it will take 30-40 minutes to cook. Start testing the temperature after 25 minutes.

For a larger roast (over 3 pounds), it will take 40-60 minutes. Start testing the temperature at 35 minutes and check every 5-7 minutes.

It is recommended that you preheat your air fryer to 370-400°F before cooking.

Internal temperature of the pork

The internal temperature of the pork is crucial to ensure the meat is cooked properly and safely. The USDA recommends that pork should be cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 145°F, with 5 minutes of resting time after it reaches that temperature. This lower temperature is safe because bacteria are killed instantly at 140°F.

However, some people may find the pinkish color of pork cooked to 145°F off-putting, as traditionally, pork was cooked to 160°F to kill bacteria. If you prefer your pork to be more well-done, you can cook it to an internal temperature of 155°F or higher.

To check the internal temperature of your pork, use an instant-read thermometer or meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch the bone, as this will give an inaccurate reading.

Once your pork has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring your pork is juicy and tender.

Storing and reheating the pork

Storing and reheating pork is a simple process.

Storing Pork

Leftover pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. If you have reheated pork, it is best to consume it within 2 days.

Reheating Pork

Reheating pork in an air fryer is an effective way to restore its crispy exterior and juicy interior. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Remove the pork from the refrigerator and pat it dry.
• Lightly spray or brush the pork with olive oil. You can also add some extra seasoning at this point.
• Preheat the air fryer to 380°F/190°C for 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the pork from drying out.
• Place the pork in the air fryer basket, ensuring the pieces do not overlap. Reheat in batches if necessary.
• Reheat the pork in 2-3 minute intervals at 380°F/190°C.
• After each interval, check the internal temperature of the pork, flip it over, and continue reheating until it reaches at least 165°F/74°C in the thickest part.
• If reheating multiple batches, ensure that the pieces of pork are of similar thickness to prevent overcooking.

Tips for Storing and Reheating

• It is best to avoid reheating pork multiple times, as it can become dry. Only reheat the amount you intend to consume.
• If you have reheated too much pork, store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and consume them cold.
• Thick-cut pork chops are ideal for reheating as they have more time to warm through without overcooking.
• When choosing an olive oil spray, opt for a spritzing type rather than an aerosol. The aerosol propellant can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer.
• An instant-read meat thermometer is useful for checking the internal temperature of the pork to ensure it is thoroughly reheated.

By following these steps, you can enjoy delicious and crispy reheated pork from your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions