Master the Art of Cooking Pernil in an Air Fryer with These Simple Steps
Pernil, a traditional Latin American dish made from roasted pork shoulder, is a delicious centerpiece for any meal. While the traditional method of cooking pernil involves slow-roasting in the oven for hours, using an air fryer can help you achieve the same tender and flavorful results in a fraction of the time. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps to master the art of cooking pernil in an air fryer.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking pernil in an air fryer, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need a bone-in pork shoulder, also known as pork butt, weighing around 4-5 pounds. Additionally, you will require a variety of spices and seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Finally, you will need olive oil, vinegar, and orange juice to create a flavorful marinade for the pork.
Prepare the Marinade
To infuse the pork with incredible flavors, it is crucial to prepare a marinade. In a bowl, combine two tablespoons of olive oil, two tablespoons of vinegar, and the juice of two oranges. Add one tablespoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly, creating a well-balanced marinade.
Marinate the Pork
Place the bone-in pork shoulder in a large ziplock bag or a bowl, and pour the prepared marinade over it. Make sure the pork is completely coated with the marinade. For maximum flavor, refrigerate the marinated pork for at least 4-6 hours or, preferably, overnight. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Once the marinating process is complete, it’s time to start preparing your air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C). This temperature will ensure that the pork cooks evenly and develops a crispy, golden-brown exterior.
Remove Excess Marinade
Before placing the pork in the air fryer, it’s important to remove any excess marinade. Too much liquid in the air fryer can hinder the cooking process and prevent the pork from becoming crispy. Simply pat the pork dry with paper towels, ensuring that only a thin layer of marinade remains on the surface.
Place the Pork in the Air Fryer
Carefully place the marinated pork shoulder into the preheated air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd it. It’s best to cook the pernil in batches if your air fryer does not allow for a single large piece. This will allow the hot air to circulate evenly and ensure that the pork cooks thoroughly.
Cook the Pernil
Close the air fryer and set the cooking timer to 45 minutes. Cooking pernil in an air fryer requires time and patience. The high heat of the air fryer will transform the pork into a flavorful and tender delicacy. Ensure that you check the pork periodically and flip it halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Allow the Pork to Rest
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the pernil from the air fryer and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Allowing the pork to rest will help the juices redistribute, resulting in a moister and more flavorful final product.
Serve and Enjoy
After the rest period, the pernil is ready to be served. Slice the pork shoulder into thin pieces, exposing the succulent meat and the crispy exterior. Pernil is commonly served with rice, beans, and plantains, but feel free to pair it with your favorite side dishes.
Conclusion
Cooking pernil in an air fryer is a fantastic alternative to the traditional oven-roasting method. With the help of an air fryer, you can achieve tender and flavorful pork with a crispy exterior in a fraction of the time. By following the simple steps outlined in this article, you can master the art of cooking pernil and impress your family and friends with this delicious Latin American dish.