Air-Fryer Pernil: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Pernil is a traditional Puerto Rican dish that is typically slow-roasted in an oven for several hours. However, you can also cook pernil in an air fryer, which significantly reduces the cooking time without compromising on flavour or tenderness. To make pernil in an air fryer, you'll need a bone-in pork shoulder or leg, which you'll marinate in a mixture of herbs, spices, and aromatics. The traditional Puerto Rican marinade includes ingredients like garlic, oregano, cumin, orange juice, lime juice, and vinegar. After marinating, you'll cook the pernil in your preheated air fryer at a temperature of around 350-400°F for about 20- 25 minutes per pound of meat. Let the pernil rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Selecting the right cut of pork

When purchasing your pork shoulder, look for a cut with a good amount of fat marbling throughout the meat. This marbling will add flavour and moisture to your pernil. Also, take note of the colour of the meat; a darker, reddish colour is indicative of higher quality pork. If possible, choose a pork shoulder with the skin on, as this will help to keep the meat moist during cooking and provide a delicious crispy texture.

In addition to the traditional pork shoulder, you may also consider using a pork leg for your pernil. A pork leg, like the shoulder, benefits from rich marbling, which will enhance the flavour and tenderness of your dish. A pork leg is a great alternative if you are looking for a leaner cut of meat, as it has a slightly lower fat content than the shoulder. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the cut of meat you choose, so be sure to adjust accordingly.

When preparing your pork for pernil, it is important to take the time to properly season and marinate the meat. A traditional Puerto Rican marinade for pernil typically includes ingredients such as garlic, oregano, cumin, orange juice, lime juice, and vinegar. You can adjust the quantities of these ingredients to suit your personal preference. It is recommended to marinate the pork overnight for the best results, as this will allow the flavours to truly infuse the meat.

Marinating the meat

For a basic pernil marinade recipe, you will need:

• 6 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons of ground cumin
• 2 tablespoons of paprika
• 1 teaspoon of black pepper

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk until well blended.

Place the pork shoulder in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow glass dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring that all sides are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and marinate in the refrigerator for a minimum of 4 hours, but preferably overnight.

You can also add a splash of rum or vinegar for a tangier flavour, incorporate achiote paste or annatto seeds for a vibrant colour and unique taste, or experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or cilantro to add aromatic elements to the marinade.

Once the pork has finished marinating, remove it from the marinade and allow any excess to drip off. It is now ready to be placed in the air fryer.

Cooking temperature and time

Firstly, it's essential to preheat your air fryer. The ideal temperature for preheating is 375°F (190°C) or 400°F (200°C). Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes to ensure it reaches the desired temperature.

When it comes to cooking time, the general rule of thumb is to estimate around 20 to 25 minutes of cooking time per pound of meat. For example, if you have a 4-pound pork shoulder, you'll want to cook it for approximately 80 to 100 minutes (1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes) in the air fryer. However, it's important to remember that cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of your pork shoulder, as well as the model of your air fryer. Therefore, it's always a good idea to rely on a meat thermometer to determine the doneness of your Pernil accurately.

The desired internal temperature for your Pernil is 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. It's important to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding contact with the bone, to get an accurate reading. If your Pernil hasn't reached the desired internal temperature after the estimated cooking time, you can continue cooking in 5 to 10-minute increments until it's done. Remember, it's crucial not to overcook the meat as it may become dry and tough.

Once your Pernil reaches the desired internal temperature, it's essential to let it rest. Remove it from the air fryer and cover it with foil. Let the meat rest for about 10 to 15 minutes before slicing into it. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute evenly, resulting in a juicier and more tender Pernil.

Additionally, if you're looking for a crispier exterior, you can increase the air fryer's temperature to 400°F (205°C) during the last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on the meat at this higher temperature to prevent over-browning.

Resting the meat

During the resting period, the juices settle within the roast, ensuring they don't run out, and keeping each slice tender and juicy. This step is key to achieving the desired texture and taste in your pernil.

For optimal results, it is recommended to cover the pernil with foil while it rests. This helps retain heat and moisture. After the resting period, you can then remove the foil and carve the pernil, serving it with your choice of sides.

The resting period is an important part of the cooking process, and it ensures your pernil turns out perfectly. This step, along with the cooking time and temperature, will ensure your pernil is juicy, tender, and flavorful.

Serving suggestions

Pernil, a traditional Puerto Rican dish, is a slow-roasted marinated pork shoulder that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It is best served with sides that complement the flavours of the pork. Here are some serving suggestions for pernil made in an air fryer:

Rice and Beans

Rice and beans is a traditional side dish that goes well with pernil. You can prepare arroz con gandules, which is rice with pigeon peas, or simply cook rice and beans together. This side dish is hearty and flavourful, making it a perfect accompaniment to the juicy and crispy pernil.

Plantains

Plantains are another popular choice to serve with pernil. You can prepare air fryer tostones, which are fried green plantain chips, or simply slice and fry ripe plantains. Plantains add a sweet and starchy component to the meal, creating a delicious contrast with the savoury pork.

Vegetables

Roasted or fried vegetables are an excellent way to round out the meal. Carrots, potatoes, onions, parsnips, and squash are all great options to consider. You can season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and cook them right alongside the pernil in the air fryer. This way, you'll have a complete and nutritious meal with minimal effort.

Salads

If you're looking for something lighter to accompany the rich pernil, consider serving it with a simple salad. A refreshing coleslaw or a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a crisp and fresh contrast to the juicy pork.

Breads

Bread is always a welcome addition to any meal. You can serve pernil with dinner rolls, either plain or flavoured with garlic and herbs. Freshly baked bread will not only complement the flavours of the pernil but also help soak up all the delicious juices.

Remember, pernil is a versatile dish, and you can get creative with your sides. These suggestions will help you build a delicious and well-rounded meal around the star of the show—the juicy and crispy pernil cooked to perfection in your air fryer!

Frequently asked questions