BBQ pork belly

BBQ Pork Belly

Pork belly is a rich and succulent cut of meat that's become a favourite among UK home cooks. With its layers of fat and meat, it crisps up beautifully and develops a deep flavour when cooked correctly. This easy-to-make BBQ pork belly recipe is perfect for the air fryer, providing a hands-off cooking method with crispy, flavourful results every time.

Ingredients

  • 500g pork belly, cut into 2-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp BBQ sauce
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, BBQ sauce, honey, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well until combined.
  2. Marinate: Add the pork belly cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C. Preheating is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
  4. Cook the Pork Belly: Place the marinated pork belly pieces in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between each piece. Cook for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy.
  5. Rest: Once cooked, allow the pork belly to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain its juices and enhances the flavour.
Air Fried Pork Belly

Serving Suggestions

Serve your BBQ pork belly with a side of fresh coleslaw or a light salad for a balanced meal. These crispy bites also make a delightful addition to bao buns or tacos, providing a perfect blend of textures and flavours.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Pork Belly

  • Quality Meat: Opt for high-quality pork belly from your local butcher for the best flavour and texture.
  • Marinating Time: The longer you marinate the pork, the more flavourful it will be, so plan ahead.
  • Checking Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature of the pork reaches at least 63°C as per UK food safety guidelines.
  • Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to adjust the BBQ sauce as per your taste preferences, or try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

Conclusion

Whether served as a main course or a delicious starter, BBQ pork belly cooked in an air fryer is a simple yet impressive dish to add to your culinary repertoire. The combination of tenderness and crunch, paired with the smoky sweetness of BBQ sauce, makes it a real crowd-pleaser.

Get your air fryer ready and try this recipe today for a delectable meal that captures the essence of a traditional BBQ, without the fuss!