Air-Fried Chicharrones: A Healthy, Crunchy Treat

Chicharrones, a quintessential Latin American street food, are typically made by deep-frying pork belly or pork rind. However, air fryers have become increasingly popular for making chicharrones due to their convenience and ability to produce crispy results with less mess. Air-fried chicharrones are a healthier alternative to deep-fried ones and can be seasoned and served in a variety of ways.

Air fryer temperature and timing

Air-fried chicharrones are a healthier alternative to the traditional deep-fried method, reducing the oil content and mess without compromising on flavour or texture.

For pork crackling, it is recommended to preheat the air fryer to 350 ºF [175ºC]. Place the meat pieces in the air fryer basket, skin-side up, and cook for around 25 minutes, or until they turn a golden-brown colour. However, cooking times may vary depending on the specific air fryer model and the size and thickness of the pork belly, so it is advised to keep an eye on the meat to ensure it does not dry out.

For chicharrones de harina, a Mexican snack made from wheat flour, the air fryer should be set to 350 degrees F and cooked for 5 minutes. It is important to shake the basket frequently to ensure even cooking.

For Latin-style chicharrones, made from pork belly, the air fryer should be set to 250 degrees F for 20 minutes. After this time, the pork belly should be flipped, the temperature increased to 400 degrees F, and cooked for a further 5-10 minutes, or until crispy.

For chicharrones cooked from dried pork skin, the air fryer should be preheated to 400°F (200°C). The pork skin should be laid in a single layer inside the air fryer basket and cooked at high heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and become crispy.

Pre-cooking pork belly

Chicharrones are a popular snack in Spain and Latin America, commonly involving fried pork skin. They can be made by deep-frying, baking, or boiling.

When preparing pork belly for chicharrones, it is important to start with the right cut of meat. Look for a piece of skin-on pork belly that is about 1-1 1/2 inches thick. Score the pork skin in a cross-hatch pattern, making cuts about 1/2 inch apart that go through the skin and a little bit of the fat, but not into the meat.

Next, you will need to brine the pork. Combine 2 tablespoons of salt with 2 tablespoons of sugar and rub this mixture all over the meat, getting it down into the cracks. Alternatively, you can rub the pork all over with baking soda. Let the pork sit in the refrigerator, uncovered, for at least 12 hours or up to overnight.

After brining, the pork belly is ready to be cooked. You can boil it in water with aromatics like onion, garlic, and peppercorns, or you can place it in an oven at 250°F (121°C) on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet. Cook the pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F (91°C) in the thickest part, which can take 3-6 hours. Then, increase the oven temperature to 500°F (260°C) and cook until the skin puffs and crisps, about 20-25 minutes.

Alternatively, you can cook the pork belly in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350-400°F (175-205°C). Cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces and toss with lime juice and seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic. Place the pieces in the air fryer basket, skin-side up, and cook for 15-30 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Seasoning

Firstly, cut the pork belly into bite-sized pieces or cubes. This step ensures even cooking and allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat effectively. You can also ask your butcher to cut the pork belly into pieces to save time.

Next, prepare the seasoning mixture. A variety of spices and seasonings can be used, depending on your taste preferences. Some popular options include garlic powder, granulated garlic, salt, ground black pepper, baking soda, paprika, cumin, dried parsley, and oregano. You can also add a Mediterranean touch with Italian seasoning or a classic Mexican flavour with lime juice and chili powder.

After cutting the pork belly, squeeze fresh lime juice over the meat. You can also add olive oil or avocado oil to the mixture. Ensure that the pork is dry before adding the seasoning to achieve a crispy texture.

Now, it's time to apply the seasoning. Place the pork belly pieces in a bowl and sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the meat. You can also add neutral oil at this stage. Use your hands or a spoon to coat the meat evenly with the seasoning. Massage the seasoning into the meat to ensure it is well-incorporated.

Once the meat is seasoned, let it rest. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for about 25 minutes. This step allows the flavours to meld and infuse into the meat.

Finally, place the seasoned pork belly into the air fryer. You can use cooking spray or line the bottom of the air fryer with aluminium foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup. Cook the chicharrones according to your air fryer's instructions, typically at a temperature of around 350°F to 400°F, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Feel free to experiment with different seasonings and flavours to create your own unique chicharrones!

Cleaning the air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to make chicharrones without the mess of traditional frying. However, cleaning your air fryer is important to keep it in good working condition and prevent the buildup of grease and residue. Here are some detailed instructions on how to clean your air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer for Cleaning

Before you start cleaning, make sure the air fryer is turned off and unplugged. Allow the air fryer to cool down completely before proceeding. This is important for safety reasons and to avoid any accidental burns.

Step 2: Remove Removable Parts

Take out all the removable parts, such as the basket, tray, and insert. These parts are usually dishwasher-safe, so you can place them in the dishwasher for a thorough cleaning. If you prefer hand washing, fill your sink with warm water and add a mild soap or dish detergent. Soak the removable parts in the soapy water for a while to loosen any stuck-on food residue. Then, use a soft sponge or cloth to gently wipe down these parts, rinsing them with clean water afterward.

Step 3: Clean the Heating Element and Interior

The heating element and interior of the air fryer can be tricky to clean due to their shape and the presence of electrical components. Avoid submerging these parts in water. Instead, use a soft, damp cloth or sponge to wipe them down gently. You can also use paper towels or a mild soap solution, being careful to avoid getting any electrical components wet. For hard-to-reach areas, consider using a soft-bristled brush or cotton swabs.

Step 4: Steam Cleaning (Optional)

Some people recommend steam cleaning your air fryer to remove any stubborn grease or residue. To do this, fill the tray with about 2-3 inches of water, add liquid soap, and a slice of lemon. Run the air fryer for 10-15 minutes, checking periodically. If the water turns brown, replace it with clean, soapy water and repeat the process until the water remains clear.

Step 5: Dry and Reassemble

After cleaning all the parts, make sure they are completely dry before reassembling the air fryer. You can use a clean cloth or paper towels to absorb any remaining moisture. Once everything is dry, put the removable parts back in place and store your air fryer until the next use.

Bonus Tip: To make cleaning easier and less frequent, consider lining the bottom of the air fryer (where the basket sits) with aluminum foil or parchment paper before cooking chicharrones. This will catch any drippings and grease, making cleanup a breeze!

Serving suggestions

There are several ways to serve air-fried chicharrones.

If you are making chicharrones de harina, a popular Mexican snack made from wheat flour dough, you can season them with chili powder, lime juice, and salt. They can be served on their own or with various toppings and dips. They go well with salsa or guacamole. You can also add Tajin or Sriracha for a spicier kick.

If you are making Latin-style chicharrones with pork belly, you can serve them with congri, Cuban black beans, and white rice. They are also good with lime wedges, hot sauce, and tostones (classic or air-fried). You can also serve them with a cold beer.

Frequently asked questions