Air Fryer Magic: Learn How to Make Crispy Lechon Kawali at Home
Lechon Kawali is a famous Filipino dish that is loved for its crispy and flavorful pork belly. Traditionally, it requires deep-frying in a large amount of oil, which can be quite messy and unhealthy. However, with the invention of air fryers, you can now enjoy the same deliciousness of Lechon Kawali with a fraction of the oil. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making crispy Lechon Kawali at home using an air fryer.
Choosing the Right Cut of Pork Belly
The key to achieving that satisfying crispiness in Lechon Kawali lies in choosing the right cut of pork belly. Look for a slab of pork belly that has an even layer of fat and meat. You can ask your local butcher to trim the pork belly into rectangular pieces or do it yourself at home. The size of each piece should be around 1 to 2 inches thick. This thickness will ensure that the pork belly cooks evenly and becomes crispy in an air fryer.
Preparing the Pork Belly
Once you have the perfect cut of pork belly, it’s time to prepare it for cooking. Start by scoring the skin side of the pork belly, creating deep, even cuts. This step is crucial as it allows the fat to render and the skin to become crispy. Rub a generous amount of salt and pepper all over the pork belly, making sure to season it thoroughly. You can also add other spices or herbs according to your preference, such as garlic powder or paprika.
Preheating and Cooking in the Air Fryer
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to around 400 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes. Preheating ensures that the pork belly cooks evenly and prevents it from sticking to the air fryer basket. Once the air fryer is preheated, place the seasoned pork belly pieces into the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Overcrowding may result in uneven cooking and less crispy results.
Close the air fryer and set the timer for around 30 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the pork belly and the specific model of your air fryer, so it’s essential to monitor the cooking process. After 15 minutes, flip the pork belly to the other side to achieve even browning and crispiness.
Obtaining the Perfect Crispy Texture
To achieve that signature crispy texture of Lechon Kawali, a secret trick is to increase the temperature during the last few minutes of cooking. Around the 25-minute mark, increase the temperature to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and continue cooking for the remaining time. This temperature boost will help to render the fat and make the skin even crispier.
Resting and Serving
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the crispy Lechon Kawali from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute and ensures that the meat remains moist and tender. Cut the Lechon Kawali into bite-sized pieces and serve it with a traditional vinegar dipping sauce, soy sauce, or your favorite condiment.
Additional Tips and Variations
– Marinating the pork belly overnight in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices can add extra flavor to your Lechon Kawali.
– If you prefer a healthier version, you can use leaner cuts of pork, such as pork loin or tenderloin, instead of pork belly. While it won’t be as fatty, it can still turn out deliciously crispy in an air fryer.
– Experiment with different spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your Lechon Kawali. You can try adding dried herbs like thyme or rosemary or even go for a spicy kick with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
– Make sure to clean your air fryer thoroughly after each use to prevent any residue buildup and maintain optimal performance.
In conclusion, air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook and enjoy our favorite dishes. With these simple steps and the help of your air fryer, you can now recreate the magic of crispy Lechon Kawali in the comfort of your own home. Impress your family and friends with this Filipino delicacy while also reducing oil consumption and minimizing cleanup. Get ready to indulge in the goodness of Lechon Kawali without the guilt!