Crispy Air-Fried Pork Belly Cubes: A Quick And Easy Recipe

Pork belly cubes are a delicious and versatile cut of meat that can be prepared in various ways. One popular method is to cook them in an air fryer, which results in tender, juicy cubes with a crispy exterior. This cooking technique is simple and requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for busy individuals or those who want a quick and easy meal. In this guide, we will explore the process of preparing pork belly cubes in an air fryer, providing step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure a mouth-watering dish.

Preparation: Season pork belly with salt, pepper, and garlic

To begin preparing your pork belly cubes for the air fryer, start by ensuring you have a good cut of pork belly. Look for a piece with good marbling, which will add flavor and moisture to the final dish. Once you have your pork belly, it's time to season it.

Seasoning is a crucial step to enhance the natural flavors of the pork and create a delicious crust. Start by trimming any excess fat or silver skin from the pork belly. This step is important as it ensures even cooking and a cleaner presentation. Then, pat the pork dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, as this can lead to steam buildup in the air fryer.

Now, it's time to season. In a small bowl, mix together salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced garlic. The amount of seasoning can vary depending on your preference for spice. A general rule of thumb is to use about 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of garlic per pound of pork belly. You can adjust these measurements based on your taste.

Massage the seasoning mixture generously into the pork belly, ensuring an even coating. Pay attention to the sides and edges of the meat, as these areas can sometimes be overlooked. The seasoning will not only add flavor but also help create a beautiful, crispy exterior when cooking. Let the seasoned pork belly sit at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

This simple step of seasoning with salt, pepper, and garlic is a fundamental part of the cooking process, as it sets the foundation for a delicious, well-seasoned pork belly dish. It's an easy way to transform ordinary pork into something extraordinary.

Air Fryer Setup: Place pork in air fryer basket, spray with oil

To begin cooking your pork belly cubes in an air fryer, it's important to set up your air fryer properly to ensure even cooking and a crispy finish. First, preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. Most recipes recommend a temperature between 350°F and 400°F (175°C to 200°C) for pork belly. This temperature range helps to cook the meat thoroughly while also achieving a desirable crispness.

Once the air fryer is preheated, it's time to prepare the pork. Take your pork belly cubes and place them in the air fryer basket. Ensure that the cubes are arranged in a single layer, allowing for proper air circulation. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and a lack of crispiness. If you have a large quantity of pork, consider cooking it in batches to maintain the desired texture and doneness.

After placing the pork in the basket, it's crucial to season it. While you can use various seasonings, a simple and effective method is to spray the pork with oil. Use a cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil to coat the cubes evenly. This step is essential as it helps to promote browning and crispification. Make sure to spray the pork thoroughly, ensuring that all sides are well-coated. You can also add your choice of seasonings at this stage, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any other spices that suit your taste.

Spraying the pork with oil is a critical step to ensure a crispy exterior and juicy interior. The oil helps to create a barrier, allowing the pork to cook in its own juices while also promoting a golden-brown crust. Be generous with the oil, but be mindful not to overdo it, as too much oil can lead to excess fat and a greasy texture.

Now, your air fryer setup is complete, and you're ready to cook the pork belly cubes. Place the basket back into the air fryer and cook for the recommended time, which typically ranges from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cubes and your desired doneness. Remember to flip the pork halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning. Once cooked, remove the basket and let the pork rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Cooking Time: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway

To cook pork belly cubes in an air fryer, you'll want to ensure a perfect, juicy result every time. The key to success is precise timing and a steady temperature. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving that mouth-watering, crispy exterior and tender interior:

Preparation: Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork belly. You want to aim for a uniform thickness of around 1/2 inch for even cooking. Cut the pork belly into bite-sized cubes, approximately 1-inch in size. Season generously with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning blend. Let the cubes sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Process: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned pork belly cubes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with enough space to allow hot air circulation. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping the cubes halfway through the cooking time. This flipping step is crucial to ensure even browning on all sides.

Flipping and Timing: The 12-15 minute cooking time is a general guideline and may vary depending on the thickness of your pork belly cubes and your air fryer's power. For thicker cubes, you might need an extra minute or two. Always use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for a reading of 145°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (medium) for the best texture.

Resting and Serving: Once cooked, remove the pork belly cubes from the air fryer and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bite. Serve the pork belly cubes as desired, perhaps with a drizzle of your favorite sauce or a side of roasted vegetables.

Remember, cooking in an air fryer is a quick and efficient method, but it's essential to keep a close eye on your food to avoid overcooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed to achieve your desired level of doneness. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful pork belly cubes!

Resting: Let pork rest for 5 minutes before serving

Resting is an essential step in the cooking process, especially when it comes to pork belly cubes. After cooking, the meat needs time to relax and redistribute its juices, ensuring a tender and juicy final dish. This simple yet crucial step can make a significant difference in the overall quality of your air-fried pork belly.

When you take the pork belly cubes out of the air fryer, it's tempting to dig in right away. However, patience is key. Let the meat rest for approximately 5 minutes. During this time, the internal temperature of the pork will continue to rise slightly, ensuring that the proteins relax and the juices remain sealed within the meat fibers. This process guarantees that your pork belly cubes will be moist and tender, with a beautiful, even texture throughout.

Resting allows the natural juices to redistribute, creating a more flavorful and succulent bite. It's a common misconception that resting is only for roasts or large cuts of meat. In this case, the small, cube-shaped pork belly pieces benefit greatly from this technique, as it helps to prevent them from drying out and ensures a more even cooking result.

While the pork rests, you can prepare any side dishes or garnishes to accompany your main course. This step also allows you to plate the pork belly cubes neatly, presenting them at their best. Remember, the resting period is not just about the meat; it's an opportunity to enhance the overall dining experience.

By following this simple resting technique, you'll be rewarded with a delicious, perfectly cooked pork belly dish. It's a small detail that can elevate your air-frying skills and impress your taste buds. So, the next time you're ready to serve your pork belly cubes, remember to let them rest for 5 minutes—it's time well spent for a mouthwatering treat!

Serving: Serve with your choice of sides and a drizzle of honey

When it comes to serving pork belly cubes cooked in an air fryer, the possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Here's a guide on how to approach the serving aspect:

Accompany with Classic Sides: One of the most popular ways to serve pork belly is with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavor. Consider serving the cubes with roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. The natural sweetness of the vegetables will enhance the pork's taste. Alternatively, a simple and classic side dish is mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, which provides a creamy texture contrast to the crispy pork. For a healthier option, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing can be a refreshing choice.

Garnish and Flavor Boost: To elevate the presentation and taste, garnish the pork belly cubes with fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley. These herbs add a burst of flavor and a pop of color to the dish. Additionally, a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil can provide a luxurious finish. For a touch of sweetness, a drizzle of honey or a reduction of balsamic vinegar can be drizzled over the pork, creating a delightful contrast of flavors.

Create a Hearty Meal: For a more substantial meal, consider serving the pork belly cubes with a starchy side like rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the flavorful juices from the pork, creating a satisfying and complete dish. You can also add a protein-rich element by serving it with grilled chicken or shrimp skewers, making it a well-rounded and balanced meal.

Present with Creativity: When it comes to serving, don't be afraid to get creative. Arrange the pork belly cubes on a bed of colorful vegetables or a bed of rice for a visually appealing presentation. You can also serve it in a cast-iron skillet or a baking dish, allowing the juices to create a flavorful sauce that can be drizzled over the dish.

Pair with Condiments: Offer a variety of condiments to customize the dish to individual tastes. Some popular choices include sriracha, soy sauce, or a homemade apple-cinnamon chutney. This allows your guests to control the level of spice or flavor they prefer.

Frequently asked questions