Air fryers have become a popular addition to kitchen appliances in recent years. With their ability to cook food using little to no oil, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying methods. But did you know that you can make lechon, a mouthwatering Filipino classic, in an air fryer? Yes, you heard it right! In this article, we will explore how to make lechon in an air fryer, giving this beloved dish a delicious twist.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before jumping into the cooking process, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients to make your air fryer lechon. The traditional lechon recipe calls for a whole pig, but for this twist, we will be using a pork belly. You will also need salt, pepper, garlic powder, soy sauce, cooking oil, and lemons or calamansi.
Prepare the Pork Belly
Start by rinsing the pork belly under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Next, make small incisions in the skin of the pork belly, ensuring not to cut into the meat. These incisions will help the skin become crispy during the cooking process. Now, thoroughly season the pork belly with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to cover all sides.
Marinate the Pork Belly
To infuse the pork belly with flavor, marinating is essential. In a bowl, combine the soy sauce and the juice of lemons or calamansi. Brush this marinade all over the pork belly, ensuring it seeps into the incisions made earlier. Allow the meat to marinate for at least two hours in the refrigerator. This step will enhance the taste of the lechon.
Prepping and Cooking in the Air Fryer
Now that your pork belly is marinated, it’s time to preheat your air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat for around five minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, remove the pork belly from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. This step will ensure even cooking throughout the meat.
Oil and Cook
Using a little cooking oil, lightly brush the air fryer basket to prevent the meat from sticking. Then, place the pork belly into the air fryer basket, ensuring it is skin-side up. Slide the basket back into the air fryer and cook the pork belly for approximately 30 minutes.
Flip and Continue to Cook
After the initial cooking time, carefully flip the pork belly using tongs or a spatula. Be cautious, as the air fryer basket and the pork belly will be hot. Once flipped, cook the pork belly for another 30 minutes to ensure it is thoroughly cooked and the skin is crispy.
Crisp the Skin
To achieve that coveted crispy lechon skin, increase the temperature of the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the pork belly for an additional 15 minutes, or until the skin becomes golden brown and crackly. Keep a close eye on it during this stage to prevent it from burning.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your air fryer lechon is perfectly cooked, remove it from the air fryer basket and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful meat. Slice the pork belly into thin pieces and serve it with a side of steamed rice, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or tacos.
Additional Tips
– Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to add your personal touch to the lechon flavors.
– If you prefer a crunchier skin, you can mist some water onto the surface of the pork belly before increasing the temperature in the air fryer.
– If you don’t have access to lemons or calamansi, you can substitute with vinegar or lime juice.
– Consider serving lechon with traditional Filipino condiments such as atchara (pickled green papaya) or lechon sauce for a truly authentic experience.
Conclusion
Making lechon in an air fryer is a delightful twist on the traditional Filipino classic while still capturing the essence and flavors of the original dish. With the air fryer’s ability to produce crispy skin and juicy meat in a healthier way, you can enjoy this beloved delicacy more often without sacrificing your health goals. So, why not give it a try and experience the magic of air fryer lechon in your very own kitchen?