Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly

This crispy air fryer pork belly bites recipe transforms ordinary pork belly into irresistible, savory-sweet morsels with a fraction of the mess of traditional deep frying. The air fryer creates that perfect crackling exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

I first made these pork belly bites for a game day gathering when I was short on time but wanted something impressive. The platter was empty within minutes and now my friends specifically request these whenever we get together for sporting events.

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds pork belly. Choose a piece with good meat to fat ratio for the perfect texture contrast. Look for pork belly with the skin removed for this recipe.
• 3 tablespoons canola oil. Helps crisp the exterior and allows the seasonings to adhere properly. Any neutral high heat oil works well.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar. Creates beautiful caramelization and balances the richness of the pork. Dark brown sugar adds more molasses flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Adds savory depth without burning like fresh garlic might. Make sure it's fresh and not clumped for even distribution.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Enhances all the flavors and helps draw moisture out for better crisping. Diamond Crystal brand gives you more control.
• 1 teaspoon pepper. Adds gentle heat and complexity. Freshly ground makes a noticeable difference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 400°F and allow it to fully preheat for at least 3 minutes. Proper preheating ensures immediate searing when the pork goes in, which locks in juices and promotes better browning. The high temperature is crucial for rendering the fat properly.

Create The Seasoning Mixture

Combine the canola oil, brown sugar, garlic powder, kosher salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl and whisk until fully incorporated. The oil helps the seasonings distribute evenly and promotes better adhesion to the meat. Make sure there are no clumps of brown sugar remaining.

Prepare The Pork Belly

Cut your pork belly into consistent 1inch cubes and thoroughly pat them dry with paper towels. Removing surface moisture is absolutely critical for achieving crispy results. Add the dried pork pieces to your seasoning mixture and toss until each piece is completely coated on all sides.

Air Fry To Perfection

Arrange the seasoned pork belly pieces in a single layer in your air fryer basket, being careful not to overcrowd. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping. Air fry for 18 to 20 minutes total, pausing to shake the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides. The pieces should be deeply golden and crispy when done.

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The brown sugar in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered through much testing that just a small amount creates the perfect caramelization without making the bites overly sweet. My family fights over the extra crispy bits at the bottom of the serving bowl every single time I make this recipe.

Storage Tips

These pork belly bites are best enjoyed immediately after cooking when they're at peak crispiness. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave as it will make them chewy rather than crisp.

Flavor Variations

While the basic recipe is delicious, you can easily customize the flavor profile. For Asian-inspired bites, replace the brown sugar with honey and add 1 teaspoon of five spice powder and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. For a spicy version, add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the original mix. For a smoky profile, include 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and a half teaspoon of cumin.

Serving Suggestions

These pork belly bites shine as an appetizer served with toothpicks and a dipping sauce like spicy mayo, hoisin, or even a simple mixture of maple syrup and Dijon mustard. They also make a fantastic protein addition to rice bowls, ramen, or atop a crisp salad with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete appetizer spread, serve alongside other finger foods like deviled eggs and vegetable crudités.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I cook these pork belly bites in the oven instead?

Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F on a wire rack over a baking sheet for about 30-35 minutes, turning halfway through cooking. The air fryer method produces crispier results, but oven baking works well too.

→ Why is it important to pat the pork belly dry before cooking?

Patting the pork belly dry removes excess moisture, which is essential for achieving a crispy exterior. Moisture creates steam during cooking, which inhibits browning and crisping.

→ Can I use a different oil instead of canola?

Yes, any high smoke-point oil works well. Good alternatives include avocado oil, peanut oil, or refined coconut oil. Olive oil can be used but may impart a stronger flavor.

→ How can I tell when the pork belly bites are done?

The exterior should be golden brown and crispy, while the inside should be tender. The fat should be rendered, giving each piece a melt-in-your-mouth quality with a satisfying crunch.

→ How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave reheating as it will make them soggy.

→ What can I serve with these pork belly bites?

These pair well with dipping sauces like sweet chili, honey mustard, or soy-ginger. They're excellent as appetizers, on top of rice bowls, in tacos, or added to salads for a protein boost.