Air-Frying Fatback: Is It Possible?

Cooking fatback in an air fryer is a healthier and less messy alternative to using a skillet, oven, or deep fryer. The air fryer's ability to circulate hot air allows the fatback to achieve a crispy, crunchy texture without the need for excessive oil or grease. With an air fryer, you can conveniently prepare this indulgent treat, which is high in healthy fats and low in carbs, making it suitable for keto and low-carb diets.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C)

Preheating your air fryer is a good idea if you want to achieve a crispy and crunchy texture with fried or breaded foods. It is also beneficial if you want to give your food a good sear, such as when cooking steaks or burgers. Most air fryers preheat to 400°F (200°C) in around three to five minutes. Smaller air fryers will preheat faster than larger ones, so a small air fryer may only need two to three minutes to preheat.

To preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), simply press the power button, set the temperature, and let it preheat. You may need to set the timer as well, depending on your model. Some air fryers will have a preheat button, while others will require you to manually preheat at the cooking temperature listed in your recipe.

It is important to always check your air fryer's manual to ensure that it can handle preheating. Additionally, keep in mind that preheating will only slightly speed up the cooking time, taking about two to three minutes off the average cooking time. However, it can help you achieve a more even cook and a browner finish on your food.

When preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C), it is important to keep safety in mind. Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling the air fryer, as the exterior can get very hot. Additionally, be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can affect the airflow and impact the cooking results.

Cut fatback into 1-inch strips or bite-sized pieces

When preparing fatback for air frying, it's important to cut the meat into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Cutting the fatback into 1-inch strips or bite-sized pieces is ideal. This allows the heat to penetrate the meat evenly, resulting in a crispy texture.

To begin, use a sharp knife to cut the fatback into strips that are approximately 1 inch wide. Alternatively, you can cut the fatback into smaller, bite-sized cubes or chunks. The key is to aim for consistency in the size and thickness of the pieces.

By cutting the fatback into 1-inch strips or bite-sized pieces, you not only promote even cooking but also create a more manageable size for serving and eating. These pieces can be easily picked up and enjoyed as a snack or used as a tasty topping on salads, soups, or collard greens.

Additionally, cutting the fatback into the specified size allows for better air circulation in the air fryer. This helps to achieve the desired crispy texture that is characteristic of air-fried fatback. Whether you're cooking for yourself or a group, this uniform size ensures that each piece of fatback turns out perfectly crispy and delicious.

Pat the fatback dry to remove moisture

When preparing fatback for cooking in an air fryer, it is important to pat the meat dry to remove moisture. Fatback is a thick layer of fat from the back of a pig, often with a bit of skin attached. It is a very rich and flavourful cut of meat that is a staple in Southern cooking.

Patting the fatback dry before cooking it in the air fryer is a crucial step, as it helps to achieve the desired crispy texture. By removing the moisture, you ensure that the fatback will fry properly and become golden brown and crunchy. This step also helps to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can lead to uneven cooking and a messy finish.

To pat the fatback dry, use a paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth to gently blot the surface of the meat. Ensure that you cover the entire surface, soaking up any excess moisture. It is important to be thorough and remove as much moisture as possible, as this will help create an even, crispy texture during cooking.

Additionally, if you are purchasing your fatback from a butcher or market, it is worth noting that fatback freezes exceptionally well. So, consider buying more than you need, as it can be stored in the freezer for future use without going rancid.

Season with salt or other herbs and spices

Seasoning your fatback is a simple step that allows you to get creative with your cooking. You can season your fatback with just salt, or you can experiment with different spices and herbs. A simple sprinkle of salt and your chosen seasonings will ensure your fatback is evenly coated and ready for cooking.

You can season your fatback before or after cooking, depending on your preference. Seasoning before cooking will allow the salt and herbs to cook into the fatback, enhancing the flavour and creating a more intense taste. If you season after cooking, you can add a little extra crunch to the crispy texture.

When choosing your seasonings, consider the flavours you enjoy and the overall taste you want to achieve. For example, if you want a more subtle flavour, you can use a light hand when sprinkling the salt and choose milder herbs and spices. On the other hand, if you want a bolder flavour, you can be more generous with your seasonings and choose stronger herbs and spices.

Additionally, you can also try a vegan version of this recipe by using tofu or tempeh strips instead of fatback and seasoning them with your favourite herbs and spices. This way, everyone can enjoy the crispy and crunchy texture that the air fryer creates!

Arrange the fatback in a single layer in the air fryer basket

When arranging the fatback in the air fryer basket, it is important to ensure that the pieces are placed in a single layer and do not overlap. This is crucial to allow for even cooking and to achieve the desired crispy texture. Depending on the size of your air fryer basket, you may need to cook the fatback in batches to avoid overcrowding.

To start, cut the fatback into 1-inch-wide strips or smaller bite-sized pieces. You can trim any excess skin or very thick fat for more even cooking, but this step is optional. Once the fatback is cut into uniform pieces, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is important as it helps to achieve the crispy texture that is characteristic of air-fried fatback.

Next, arrange the fatback pieces in the air fryer basket. Place them in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. If you have a larger quantity of fatback, you may need to cook it in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. It is crucial to leave enough space between the pieces to allow for proper air circulation during the cooking process.

By arranging the fatback in a single layer, you ensure that each piece receives direct heat and cooks evenly. Overlapping or overcrowding the air fryer basket can result in uneven cooking, with some pieces becoming more crispy or browned than others. It is important to follow this step to achieve the desired crunchy texture and golden brown colour consistently across all pieces of fatback.

Frequently asked questions