Air-Fryer Chicharrones: A Healthy Crunch?

Chicharrones, also known as pork belly or pork rinds, are a quintessential street food in Latin American cooking. They are made from pork belly or pork rind and are known for their crispy and tender texture. While traditionally deep-fried, chicharrones can also be made in an air fryer, resulting in a healthier and less messy alternative. This method is perfect for those who enjoy the crispy texture of homemade pork rind without the hassle of deep frying.

Air fryer temperature and time

To cook chicharrones in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 350 ºF [175ºC]. Place the meat pieces in the air fryer bowl, skin-side up. Cook for 25 minutes, or until they turn a golden-brown colour.

If you are cooking pork belly bites, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F for 5 minutes. You want the air fryer nice and hot when you place the pork belly bites in there. In a bowl, squeeze lime juice over the chopped pork, then pat dry with a paper towel. The pork should be very dry to ensure a crispy texture. Next, season the pork belly with Sazon, salt, ground black pepper, baking soda, and granulated garlic. Spread the pork belly in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 20 minutes at 250 degrees F. Once the 20 minutes are up, flip the pork belly, increase the temperature to 400 degrees F, and cook for another 5-10 minutes or until crispy.

For chicharrones de harina, set the temperature to 350 degrees F and cook for 5 minutes. Shake the basket frequently so that all the pasta cooks evenly.

For a pork belly recipe that includes lemon juice, set your air fryer to 390 degrees F, preheat for 3 minutes, and cook for a total of 45 minutes. Air fry for 40 minutes with the skin facing down, then flip and air fry skin-facing up for the last 5 minutes.

Preparing the pork belly

Next, squeeze lime juice over the chopped pork and pat it dry with a paper towel. The pork should be very dry to ensure a crispy texture. You can also rub baking soda on the pork to help achieve this.

After the pork is dry, season it with your desired spices. This could include Sazon, salt, ground black pepper, granulated garlic, and cayenne pepper. You can also rub the pork with olive oil and coat it with a neutral oil before placing it in the air fryer.

Finally, preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F for about 5 minutes. You want the air fryer nice and hot before placing the pork belly inside. Place the pork belly bites in a single layer at the bottom of the air fryer, ensuring they are not stacked on top of each other. If they don't all fit, cook them in separate batches.

Seasoning

Chicharrones are a quintessential street food classic in Latin American cooking. They are made from either pork belly or pork rind and are a crispy and tender savoury treat.

When it comes to seasoning, there are a variety of options to choose from to customise the flavour of your chicharrones. Here are some popular seasoning choices:

Sazon

Sazon is a popular choice for seasoning chicharrones. It adds a unique flavour to the dish and is often considered a must-have ingredient.

Granulated Garlic or Garlic Powder

Garlic is a versatile ingredient that can enhance the flavour of any dish. In the case of chicharrones, garlic powder or granulated garlic can add a punch of savoury flavour to the crispy pork.

Ground Black Pepper

Adding ground black pepper to your chicharrones will give them a little kick and some extra spice. It pairs well with the other seasonings and helps to round out the flavour profile.

Salt

Salt is a classic seasoning that can help enhance the natural flavours of the pork. Be sure to add salt to taste, as too much can be overpowering.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is another useful seasoning that can help you achieve that desired crispy texture. Rubbing it on the pork before cooking will ensure a crunchy exterior.

Lime Juice

Squeezing some lime juice over your chicharrones will add a tangy, acidic element to the dish. It pairs well with the other seasonings and can help to brighten up the flavours.

Chimichurri

For a unique twist, you can also try serving your chicharrones with chimichurri, a herbacious Argentinian topping or dipping sauce. This combination of fresh herbs and spices can take your chicharrones to the next level.

Other Options

Other seasonings you can experiment with include chili powder, paprika, cumin, dried parsley, and even Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean touch. You can also try making sweet chicharrones by dipping them in chocolate or caramel for a dessert-like treat.

Cleaning the air fryer

Yes, you can cook chicharrones in an air fryer! They are the same thing as pork belly, and are a popular appetiser in the Caribbean.

It is important to clean your air fryer regularly to maintain its performance and ensure food safety. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean your air fryer:

Step 1: Unplug and Cool

Always unplug the air fryer from the power outlet before you begin the cleaning process. This prevents any electrical accidents while handling water or cleaning solutions. Then, let the air fryer cool down completely. This reduces the risk of burns and makes it safer to handle.

Step 2: Remove Removable Parts

Most air fryers come with removable parts such as the basket, tray, and pan. Carefully take out these parts and set them aside for cleaning separately.

Step 3: Wash Removable Parts

Wash the removable parts with warm or hot water and mild dish soap. You can use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to remove any food residue or grease. If your air fryer parts are dishwasher-safe, you can also place them in the dishwasher, although some people find that the non-stick coating wears off more quickly with regular dishwasher cleanings.

Step 4: Wipe Down Interior and Exterior

Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the inside and outside of the air fryer, including the heating element. Be careful not to damage the heating coil or dislodge any components. For tough-to-clean places, such as the holes in the grate, you can use a toothpick to gently dislodge any stuck-on food.

Step 5: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the removable parts and then set them aside to dry overnight or until completely dry. Make sure everything is thoroughly dried before reassembling the air fryer.

Deep Cleaning

For a deeper clean, especially if you notice a buildup of grease, burnt food particles, or lingering odours, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to create a thick paste. Cover the sticky patches with the paste and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing off with a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Additional Tips

• It is recommended to clean your air fryer after each use to prevent the buildup of food and grease, which can cause odours, malfunctions, or even fires.
• Avoid using non-stick sprays, as these can leave a gummy residue. Instead, use a cooking oil spray, such as avocado oil.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners and scrubbers, as these can scratch the non-stick parts and exterior of your air fryer.
• Always refer to your air fryer's owner's manual for specific directions about your model.

Serving suggestions

Chicharrones are a quintessential street food classic in Latin American cooking. They are made from pork belly or pork rind and are a popular appetizer in the Caribbean.

Chicharrones can be served as an appetizer or a meal. They are best served hot with a squeeze of lime juice on top to give them a fresh Caribbean vibe. You can also serve them with lime wedges and hot sauce on the side.

For a more substantial meal, serve them with tostones (classic or air-fried) and lime wedges. You can also serve them with chimichurri guacamole. To make the chimichurri, add the mixture to mashed avocados and combine. Plate the chicharrones with a dollop of the guacamole and serve the remaining chimichurri on the side.

Chicharrones are a great snack option for movie night. They are a popular keto diet substitution and are extensively used in low-carb cuisine instead of regular breadcrumbs. They are also gluten-free and grain-free.

If you're serving chicharrones as a snack, you can offer a variety of dips on the side, such as chimichurri, hot sauce, or even a garlic shrimp dip.

For a more exotic option, try making sweet churro-like chicharrones pork rinds with a beautiful cinnamon flavor.

Frequently asked questions