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These Crispy Air Fryer Pork Belly Chunks bring together three awesome things - easy setup, tons of taste, and that crunchy texture you can't resist. I've tried lots of ways to cook them, and the air fryer really nails that perfect mix of crispy outside and juicy inside.
Quick and Easy
The air fryer gives us that amazing pork crunch without dealing with hot oil splatter. Hot air moves all around to make each bite perfectly crispy. And when you're done, cleaning up takes no time at all.
What You'll Need
- Pork Belly: 1 1/2 pounds, cut into 1-inch chunks. Try to make them all the same size so they cook evenly.
- Seasoning Blend: Pepper, salt, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to create that savory, smoky taste.
- Oil: 1 tablespoon of neutral cooking oil or olive oil to lightly brush over the pork pieces so the seasonings stick better.
Let's Cook
- Get Your Pork Ready
- Make sure the chunks are totally dry and add plenty of seasoning.
- Warm Up First
- Don't skip preheating your air fryer as it really matters.
- Cook Till Crispy
- Put them in one layer and give them a shake halfway for even crispiness.
- Make Sure They're Done
- They should be golden brown and reach the right temp inside.
- Ready to Eat
- Grab them while they're crispy and warm.
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Why Pork Belly
Pork belly stands out from other cuts because the fatty, marbled meat transforms into something magical when cooked properly. You'll love how each bite gives you both the crunchy outer layer and that soft, tender middle.
No Air Fryer No Problem
You can totally use your regular oven too just give them a bit more time and turn them over halfway. They'll still come out tasty just watch them carefully to get that nice crunch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why dry the pork belly first?
- Dry meat holds onto seasonings better and turns out crispier. Wet surfaces can cause steaming instead.
- → Can these be baked instead?
- Absolutely! You can use a regular oven. Check the main post for detailed directions.
- → When will I know they're cooked?
- Look for crispy, golden edges. The inside temperature needs to hit 145°F for safe eating.
- → Can I swap out the seasonings?
- For sure! Experiment with flavors like five spice for an Asian flair or cayenne for a spicy kick.
- → Why shake the basket mid-cook?
- Shaking keeps things cooking evenly, so every side gets crispy. You don't want to skip this.