Pinoy Cooking: How to Cook Lechon Kawali in an Air Fryer – Panlasang Pinoy Recipe
Filipino cuisine is known for its rich and flavorful dishes. One of the most beloved dishes in the Philippines is Lechon Kawali, a crispy pork belly that is typically deep-fried until golden brown. However, with the rise of healthier cooking methods, many people are now turning to air fryers as a way to enjoy this classic dish without the excess oil. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of cooking Lechon Kawali in an air fryer, using a delicious recipe from Panlasang Pinoy.
What is Lechon Kawali?
Before we begin, let’s talk about what Lechon Kawali is. Lechon Kawali is a Filipino dish made from pork belly. The name “Lechon” comes from the Spanish word for roasted, while “Kawali” refers to the traditional frying pan used to cook the dish. It is usually served with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, and spices. The dish is well-loved for its crispy skin and tender meat.
The Benefits of Cooking Lechon Kawali in an Air Fryer
Using an air fryer to cook Lechon Kawali offers several benefits. First and foremost, it reduces the amount of oil used in the cooking process. Traditional deep-frying requires a significant amount of oil, which can make the dish high in calories and unhealthy. By using an air fryer, you can achieve that crispy texture without the excessive oil.
Another advantage of using an air fryer is the convenience it offers. Air fryers are compact and easy to use, making them perfect for everyday cooking. They also cook food faster than conventional ovens, saving you time in the kitchen. Additionally, air fryers are known for their ability to evenly distribute heat, resulting in an evenly cooked Lechon Kawali.
How to Cook Lechon Kawali in an Air Fryer
Now that we understand the benefits of cooking Lechon Kawali in an air fryer, let’s dive into the cooking process. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to cook this delectable dish using the Panlasang Pinoy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds of pork belly
– 5 cloves of garlic, crushed
– 1 tablespoon of salt
– 1 tablespoon of whole peppercorn
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the pork belly. Make sure it is clean and free from any impurities. Slice it into thick chunks or rectangular pieces, whichever you prefer.
2. In a pot, combine the pork belly, crushed garlic, salt, whole peppercorn, bay leaf, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour or until the pork belly is tender.
3. Remove the pork belly from the pot and pat it dry using a paper towel. This helps remove any excess moisture, allowing the skin to become crispy when cooked.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is preheating, you can score the skin of the pork belly using a sharp knife. This creates those beautiful crackling lines that we all love in Lechon Kawali.
5. Once the air fryer is preheated, place the pork belly pieces inside the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent the air from circulating properly.
6. Cook the pork belly in the air fryer for about 25-30 minutes or until the skin becomes crispy and golden brown. Remember to flip the pork belly halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
7. Once cooked, remove the Lechon Kawali from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting into bite-sized pieces. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
8. Serve the Lechon Kawali with a side of vinegar dipping sauce and steamed rice. Enjoy the crispy skin and succulent meat that this dish has to offer.
Tips and Variations
– For an even crispier skin, you can rub the pork belly with some oil before placing it in the air fryer.
– If you prefer a spicier Lechon Kawali, you can add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
– Experiment with different dipping sauces. Some popular options include spicy vinegar, liver sauce, or a combination of soy sauce and calamansi juice.
– If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still enjoy Lechon Kawali by using an oven. Simply preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and follow the same steps for preparing and cooking the pork belly. Place the pork belly on a baking sheet and cook for about 30-40 minutes or until the skin is crispy.
In conclusion, cooking Lechon Kawali in an air fryer is a healthier and convenient alternative to deep-frying. With its ability to reduce oil usage and provide even cooking, the air fryer delivers a perfectly crispy and delicious dish. By following the Panlasang Pinoy recipe and using the tips mentioned, you can recreate this beloved Filipino dish right in your own kitchen. Enjoy the flavors of Lechon Kawali without the guilt!