Achieve the perfect combination of crispy skin and tender meat with this incredible air fryer pork belly recipe. In just 25 minutes, you’ll create a mouthwatering dish that rivals restaurant quality, but with a fraction of the calories from traditional deep-frying.
This method delivers golden-brown, crackling perfection while keeping the succulent meat underneath fork-tender. Plus, with only 1g of carbs per serving, it’s an excellent choice for those following a low-carb lifestyle.
Fresh & Flavorful Ingredients
- Pork Belly: 1 pound, thoroughly rinsed and patted dry for optimal crispiness
- Avocado Oil: 1 tablespoon, perfect for high-temperature cooking
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon, adds rich umami flavor
- Mirin: 1/2 teaspoon, brings subtle sweetness
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, ensures even flavor distribution
- Kosher Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, enhances overall taste
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, adds subtle heat
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
- Preparation: Heat air fryer to 400°F for perfect crispiness
- Cutting: Slice pork belly into 1-inch pieces for even cooking
- Seasoning: Mix pork with oil, soy sauce, and mirin in a bowl until well-coated
- Spicing: Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper, ensuring even distribution
- Air Frying: Arrange in single layer (parchment paper optional) and cook 15-20 minutes
- Flipping: Shake and flip twice during cooking for perfect crispiness
- Final Check: Add 3-5 minute increments until desired crispiness achieved
- Serving: Present warm with your choice of sauce or fresh lime wedges
Cooking Techniques
The magic of air frying gives this pork belly its amazing crispy outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. The key is cutting the pieces into even 1-inch chunks so they cook at the same rate. If you’re new to air frying, don’t worry about getting it perfect – just try to keep the sizes close. A little tip: when you shake the basket during cooking, use tongs instead of shaking if your pieces are sticking together at first.
Variations & Substitutions
No mirin? You can use rice wine or a splash of sweet white wine mixed with a pinch of sugar. Want to switch up the flavors? Try these tasty options:
- Replace the soy sauce and mirin with Chinese five spice and brown sugar for a different spin
- Add gochugaru (Korean red pepper) for a spicy kick
- Swap avocado oil with any high-heat oil like vegetable or grapeseed oil
- For extra flavor, add a dash of sesame oil at the end
Serving Suggestions
These crispy bites are super versatile! Serve them:
- Over steamed rice with green onions
- In lettuce wraps with fresh herbs
- As part of a rice bowl with kimchi
- On their own as a protein-rich snack
- With a side of quick pickled vegetables The lime wedges add a fresh pop, but you can also try dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, hoisin, or spicy mayo.
Storage Tips
Keep your leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat and get back that lovely crispiness, pop it in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can – it won’t be as crispy. You can also freeze the cooked pieces for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly
Equipment
- Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 1 lb Pork Belly rinsed and patted dry
- 1 tbsp Avocado Oil
- 1 tsp Low Sodium Soy Sauce
- 1/2 tsp Mirin
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F.
- Cut the pork belly into 1-inch sized pieces and place in a bowl with the oil, soy sauce, and mirin. Toss to coat, then season with garlic powder, salt and pepper.
- Spread the pork belly in an even layer inside of the air fryer basket. (you can place on cut parchment paper)
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking and flipping twice during cooking to ensure even doneness (frying times will depend on the size of the pieces and your air fryer).
- Check the pork belly for doneness, adding more time in 3-5 minute increments until it has crisped up to your liking.
- Serve warm with your favorite sauce or lime wedges.
