Mary Berry Delicious Crispy Air Fried Chinese Pork Belly Recipe
Chinese pork belly is a beloved dish known for its tender meat and crispy skin. This air-fried version provides a healthier twist while maintaining the delicious flavors and textures that make it a favorite in Chinese cuisine.
Chinese pork belly, or "Siu Yuk," is traditionally roasted to achieve its signature crackling skin. This dish has deep roots in Chinese culinary history, often enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a similar result with less oil and fuss.
Ingredients for the Crispy Air Fried Chinese Pork Belly
- Pork belly: 1 kg
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
- Five-spice powder: 1 teaspoon
- White pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Rice wine vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
Preparation Instructions for the Crispy Air Fried Chinese Pork Belly
- Preparation:
- Rinse the pork belly and pat it dry.
- Score the skin lightly in a crosshatch pattern without cutting into the meat.
- Seasoning:
- Rub the meat side with salt, five-spice powder, white pepper, and garlic powder.
- Brush the skin with rice wine vinegar and sprinkle baking soda evenly over the top.
- Drying:
- Let the pork belly sit uncovered in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to dry out the skin.
- Air Frying:
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C.
- Place the pork belly skin side up in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 30 minutes at 180°C, then increase the temperature to 200°C and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the skin is crispy and golden.
How to Store Crispy Air Fried Chinese Pork Belly
- Storage: Store leftover pork belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C for 5-7 minutes to regain its crispiness.
Nutritional Information for Crispy Air Fried Chinese Pork Belly
- Calories: 400 kcal per 100g
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
FAQ about the Crispy Air Fried Chinese Pork Belly
Q: Can I use other cuts of pork for this recipe? A: Pork belly is recommended for its perfect balance of meat and fat, which creates the desired tenderness and crispy skin.
Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer? A: You can roast the pork belly in an oven preheated to 180°C, but it may take longer to achieve the same crispiness.
Q: How do I ensure the skin gets crispy? A: Ensuring the skin is thoroughly dried and using baking soda to draw out moisture are key steps to achieving a crispy skin.
Enjoy the delightful texture and rich flavor of this crispy air-fried Chinese pork belly. Perfect for a family meal or special occasion, it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice and vegetables.