Pork belly strips are a delicious and flavorful cut of meat that can be easily cooked in an air fryer. This cooking method allows you to achieve the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat, all without the need for excessive oil. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you through the step-by-step process of cooking pork belly strips in an air fryer.
Gather the Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. This will help make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you will need:
1. 1 pound of pork belly strips
2. 1 tablespoon of olive oil
3. 1 teaspoon of salt
4. 1 teaspoon of black pepper
5. 1 teaspoon of paprika
6. 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
7. 1 teaspoon of onion powder
8. Your choice of dipping sauce (optional)
Prepare the Pork Belly Strips
Before cooking the pork belly strips, it’s important to properly prepare them. Start by patting them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help ensure that the skin gets crispy during the cooking process. Once dry, place the strips in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil. Use your hands to evenly coat the strips with the oil.
Season the Pork Belly Strips
Now that the pork belly strips are properly prepared, it’s time to season them. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix these seasonings together until well combined. Then, sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the pork belly strips, ensuring that they are evenly coated on all sides.
Cook the Pork Belly Strips in the Air Fryer
With the preparation and seasoning complete, it’s time to cook the pork belly strips in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Once preheated, place the seasoned pork belly strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring that they do not overlap or touch each other. This will allow for even cooking and crispy results.
Close the air fryer basket and set the timer for 15 minutes. During this time, the pork belly strips will start to cook and become crispy. After 15 minutes, carefully flip the strips using tongs to ensure even browning on both sides. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the pork belly strips reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) and the skin is crispy.
Allow the Pork Belly Strips to Rest
Once the pork belly strips have finished cooking in the air fryer, it’s important to allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful end result. Remove the cooked pork belly strips from the air fryer and place them on a cutting board. Tent them with aluminum foil and let them rest for about 5 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy
After the resting period, it’s time to serve and enjoy your deliciously cooked pork belly strips. You can serve them as is for a crispy and flavorful appetizer or snack. Alternatively, you can cut them into smaller pieces and use them as a topping for salads, tacos, or sandwiches. The options are endless!
If desired, you can also serve the pork belly strips with your favorite dipping sauce. This can complement the flavors of the dish and add an extra layer of deliciousness. Some popular options include barbecue sauce, soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a homemade aioli.
In conclusion, cooking pork belly strips in an air fryer is a simple and delicious process. By following this recipe, you can achieve perfectly crispy and tender pork belly strips without the need for excessive oil or complicated techniques. So fire up your air fryer, gather the ingredients, and prepare to indulge in a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends.