There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a standout dish that bursts with flavor and impresses everyone at the table. I discovered that joy with my Air Fryer Pork Belly (Lechon Kawali), a recipe that transforms a humble slab of pork into a golden, crispy masterpiece that’s just begging to be paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
Imagine the first bite: the crunchy skin gives way to tender, juicy meat, with the aromatic hints of garlic and bay leaf dancing in your mouth. This recipe is not just about indulgence; it’s an adventure that breaks free from the monotony of fast food, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience right at home.
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner, this dish embraces both tradition and modern convenience. After a little prep work and a night in the fridge, you’ll find that the air fryer makes this process surprisingly simple, enabling you to savor all those rich flavors without the fuss. If you’re ready to elevate your culinary game, dive into this delicious journey with me!
Why is Air Fryer Pork Belly a Must-Try?
Unmatched Crispiness: The air fryer transforms the pork skin into a golden, crunchy layer that’s utterly addictive.
Quick Cooking Time: With just 30 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll enjoy a gourmet dish in no time.
Flavor Explosion: Infused with garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaf, each bite delivers a burst of savory goodness.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with your go-to dipping sauce for a custom touch at gatherings.
Stress-Free Prep: A night in the fridge prepares the pork belly perfectly, making this dish manageable and fun to create.
Ready to impress your family? This Air Fryer Pork Belly will be the star of your dinner table!
Air Fryer Pork Belly Ingredients
For the Pork
• 1.3 pounds pork belly slab – the star of this dish, providing savory richness.
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – adds acidity to balance the flavors.
For the Aromatics
• 6 cloves crushed garlic – infuses the pork with a delightful aroma.
• 3 pieces bay leaf – contributes a herbal note for depth.
• ½ tablespoon whole black peppercorns – enhances flavor with a peppery kick.
• 1 ½ tablespoons kosher salt – essential for seasoning and moisture retention.
For Cooking
• 4 cups water – ensures the pork belly is properly braised; add more if needed.
Embark on a delicious culinary adventure with these simple Air Fryer Pork Belly ingredients that will elevate your home-cooked meals!
How to Make Air Fryer Pork Belly
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Boil the aromatics: In a medium stock pot, bring water to a gentle boil. Add the kosher salt, crushed garlic, whole black peppercorns, and bay leaves for a fragrant base.
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Cook the pork belly: Once the water with aromatics begins to boil vigorously, gently add the pork belly slab, skin side up, allowing it to absorb all those lovely flavors.
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Skim and turn: Skim off any scum that forms on the surface. Turn the pork belly slab every 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
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Check tenderness: Carefully remove the pork after 45 minutes to 1 hour, or when it feels fork-tender. If necessary, add more water halfway through to keep it covered.
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Cool and refrigerate: Cool the pork belly for at least 30 minutes. Place it in an airtight container lined with paper towels and refrigerate overnight to enhance the flavors.
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Prepare for air frying: The next day, gently transfer the chilled pork belly slab to the Air Fryer tray, skin side up. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes.
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Brush with vinegar: Lightly brush the pork skin with apple cider vinegar to promote that irresistible crispiness.
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Air fry the pork belly: Insert the Air Fryer tray into the pre-heated Air Fryer at 400°F (205°C) in the middle cooking chamber. Air fry the pork belly slab for a delicious 30 minutes.
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Final touch: Brush the pork skin with the remaining apple cider vinegar during the last 10 minutes to enhance the golden color and crunch.
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Crisp and cool: Remove the pork belly slab once it’s beautifully crisp and golden. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve your perfectly cooked Air Fryer Pork Belly with your favorite dipping sauce for an unforgettable meal!
Optional: Try serving it with a spicy vinegar dipping sauce for extra flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Air Fryer Pork Belly Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow and put your own spin on this delightful dish for an even more tailored flavor experience!
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the boiling water for a fiery surprise. This variation adds warmth and excitement that will definitely awaken your taste buds.
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Herb-Infused: Replace bay leaves with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant twist. The earthy aroma will infuse during cooking, leaving a delightful herbal essence in each bite.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the marinade before air frying for a refreshing zing. The citrus will brighten the rich flavors of the pork, making every bite a little celebration.
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Maple Glaze: Brush the pork belly with maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of air frying for a hint of sweetness. This caramelization will create a beautiful glaze that’s both savory and subtly sweet.
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Soy Sauce Marinade: For a savory Asian twist, marinate the pork belly in soy sauce mixed with ginger and garlic overnight before cooking. This addition deepens the flavor profile, pairing beautifully with rice or noodles.
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Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the boiling water or air-fry with a few pieces of smoked wood chips for a barbecue-inspired hint. This variation brings warmth and depth, complementing that sizzling pork belly crisp.
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce to keep it gluten-free while retaining that umami flavor in your marinade. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy this dish without worrying about gluten!
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Crunchy Toppings: Consider serving with crispy fried shallots or chopped nuts for an added crunch. This textural element enhances your plate and elevates the overall dining experience with delightful contrasts.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Pork Belly
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Choose Quality Pork: Opt for fresh, well-marbled pork belly for maximum flavor and tenderness. Poor quality can lead to dry meat or uneven cooking.
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Skim Scum Regularly: While boiling, remember to skim off the scum that forms on the surface to keep the broth clear and enhance the final taste of the Air Fryer Pork Belly.
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Chill Overnight: Refrigerating the pork belly overnight not only deepens the flavors but also makes it easier to slice into clean pieces before cooking.
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Monitor Air Frying: Keep an eye on the pork during the final minutes to achieve the desired level of crispiness without burning.
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Let It Rest: After air frying, allow the pork belly to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This step ensures those juices stay locked in, making each bite succulent.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Pork Belly slabs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can braise the pork belly up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while it cools and chills overnight in the refrigerator. Simply follow the braising steps, cool the pork for 30 minutes, then refrigerate it in an airtight container lined with paper towels to maintain quality. On the day you plan to serve, let the pork come to room temperature for 15 to 30 minutes before air frying. This way, you’ll enjoy a crispy, golden finish with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Pork Belly
Fridge: Store your leftover Air Fryer Pork Belly in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its crispiness.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, wrap the pork belly tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months for peak freshness.
Reheating: To revive leftover pork belly, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until crispy again. Enjoy every bite!
What to Serve with Air Fryer Pork Belly (Lechon Kawali)?
Immerse yourself in a flavor-filled dining experience that perfectly complements every crispy, juicy bite of this delectable dish.
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Garlic Fried Rice: The fragrant, savory notes of garlic fried rice enhance the richness of the pork belly, making each bite a delightful adventure. Pairing this dish creates a satisfying contrast in texture.
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Pickled Vegetables: A tangy crunch from pickled vegetables cuts through the richness of the pork, refreshing your palate with each forkful. It’s a colorful and zesty addition!
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Spicy Vinegar Sauce: This classic accompaniment brings a zippy kick, perfectly balancing the fatty richness of the pork belly. Ideally, serve it alongside for a delightful taste experience.
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Crispy Kale Chips: These add a healthy crunch and a slightly bitter note, offsetting the indulgence of the pork. They’re an easy-to-make side that adds texture and nutrition to your meal.
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Asian Slaw: Crisp cabbage and carrots in a light sesame dressing not only add freshness but also mirror the flavors of the pork while keeping things light and bright.
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Cold Beer: A nice, refreshing lager pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the Air Fryer Pork Belly, elevating your dining experience and perfectly complementing the savory notes.
These serving suggestions create an enticing spread, ensuring a well-rounded meal bursting with flavors and textures that everyone will love!
Air Fryer Pork Belly (Lechon Kawali) Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting pork belly?
Absolutely! When selecting pork belly, look for a slab with even marbling and a good balance of meat and fat. This marbling contributes to the dish’s richness and tenderness. Fresh pork belly should also have a pinkish hue and a pleasant smell. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or a slimy texture, as these can indicate spoilage.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Pork Belly?
Very! To store leftover Air Fryer Pork Belly, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. This method helps preserve its flavor and texture while preventing freezer burn.
How do I properly freeze Air Fryer Pork Belly?
Of course! To freeze your Air Fryer Pork Belly, follow these steps:
- Allow the pork to cool completely to room temperature.
- Wrap the pork belly tightly in plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets.
- Next, wrap it again in aluminum foil to further protect it from freezer burn.
- Label the package with the date and type of meat.
- Place the wrapped pork belly in your freezer, where it can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover pork belly?
When reheating leftover Air Fryer Pork Belly, I recommend using the air fryer for optimal crispiness. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the pork belly inside for about 5-10 minutes. This will help regain that wonderful crunch while ensuring the meat stays juicy and tasty.
Can I serve Air Fryer Pork Belly to my pets?
Not really. While plain pork belly is safe for dogs in moderation, be cautious with any seasonings or spices used in the preparation as they may not be healthy for them. It’s best to offer your furry friends plain, cooked pork without the skin or any added ingredients. Always consult with your veterinarian for safe feeding practices.
What should I do if my pork belly turns out too tough?
Very! If your Air Fryer Pork Belly turns out tougher than expected, it might have been undercooked initially. To remedy this, you can slice the pork belly into pieces and place them in a pot with a bit of water or broth. Cover and gently simmer on low heat for about 20-30 minutes or until tender. This not only helps soften the meat but also adds moisture and flavor back into your dish.
Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Lechon Kawali Made Easy!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium stock pot, bring water to a gentle boil. Add the kosher salt, crushed garlic, whole black peppercorns, and bay leaves for a fragrant base.
- Once the water with aromatics begins to boil vigorously, gently add the pork belly slab, skin side up.
- Skim off any scum that forms on the surface. Turn the pork belly slab every 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove the pork after 45 minutes to 1 hour, when it feels fork-tender.
- Cool the pork belly for at least 30 minutes. Place it in an airtight container lined with paper towels and refrigerate overnight.
- The next day, gently transfer the chilled pork belly slab to the Air Fryer tray, skin side up.
- Lightly brush the pork skin with apple cider vinegar.
- Air fry the pork belly slab for 30 minutes at 400°F (205°C).
- Brush the pork skin with the remaining apple cider vinegar during the last 10 minutes.
- Remove the pork belly slab once it’s beautifully crisp and golden. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
- Serve your perfectly cooked Air Fryer Pork Belly with your favorite dipping sauce.