What To Know
- Score the skin of the pork belly in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
- Flip the pork belly over and air fry for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
- So next time you’re looking for a crispy and flavorful meal, give air fryer lechon kawali a try.
Lechon kawali, a traditional Filipino dish, is known for its crispy skin and tender meat. While it’s typically prepared by deep-frying, this recipe offers a healthier and equally delicious alternative: air fryer lechon kawali. With an air fryer, you can enjoy this classic dish without the added fat and calories.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly, skin on
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pork Belly
- Score the skin of the pork belly in a criss-cross pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
- Rub the pork belly with salt and pepper.
2. Marinate the Pork Belly
- In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, vinegar, and water.
- Add the pork belly to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
3. Air Fry the Pork Belly
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove the pork belly from the marinade and pat it dry.
- Place the pork belly in the air fryer basket, skin side up.
- Air fry for 20 minutes.
4. Flip and Cook
- Flip the pork belly over and air fry for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy.
5. Rest and Slice
- Remove the pork belly from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the pork belly into thin pieces and serve immediately.
Tips
- For extra crispy skin, air fry the pork belly for longer, up to 25 minutes per side.
- If the skin starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork belly is cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Serve lechon kawali with your favorite dipping sauce, such as vinegar, soy sauce, or bagoong.
Variations
Crispy Lechon Kawali
- Increase the air frying time to 30 minutes per side for an extra crispy skin.
Sweet and Sour Lechon Kawali
- Marinate the pork belly in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, honey, and pineapple juice.
Spicy Lechon Kawali
- Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Benefits of Air Fryer Lechon Kawali
- Healthier: Air frying reduces the amount of fat and calories compared to deep-frying.
- Crispy Skin: The air fryer circulates hot air, resulting in a crispy skin without the need for excess oil.
- Convenience: Air fryers are easy to use and clean, making this a convenient way to enjoy lechon kawali.
Accompaniments
- Rice: Lechon kawali is typically served with steamed rice.
- Vegetables: Pair it with sautéed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.
- Sauce: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as vinegar, soy sauce, or bagoong.
Conclusion
Air fryer lechon kawali is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy this Filipino classic. With its crispy skin and tender meat, it’s a dish that will satisfy your cravings without compromising on taste or health. So next time you’re looking for a crispy and flavorful meal, give air fryer lechon kawali a try.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pork shoulder instead of pork belly?
Yes, you can use pork shoulder, but the skin will not be as crispy as with pork belly.
2. How do I store leftover lechon kawali?
Store leftover lechon kawali in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I reheat lechon kawali in the air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat lechon kawali in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
