Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly

Ingredients:

• 1 lb pork belly, skin-on
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pork Belly:
   • If the pork belly has not been scored, use a sharp knife to score the skin in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat too deeply.
   • Pat the pork belly dry with paper towels.
2. Seasoning:
   • Rub the olive oil all over the pork belly, including the skin.
   • Season generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or any of your favorite spices.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Air Frying:
   • Once preheated, place the pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin-side up.
   • Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the internal temperature of the pork reaches 160°F (70°C). Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of your pork belly and your air fryer model.
5. Check and Adjust:
   • About halfway through cooking, check the pork belly. If the skin is getting too dark, you can reduce the temperature slightly or cover the pork belly loosely with aluminum foil to prevent further browning while the inside cooks through.
6. Rest and Serve:
   • Once done, remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps retain the juices and ensures a tender texture.
   • Slice the pork belly into strips or cubes and serve hot. It’s delicious on its own as a snack or appetizer, or as a main dish with sides like rice, vegetables, or salad.