Crispy pork belly is one of those dishes that feels restaurant-worthy, yet surprisingly easy to make at home—especially when you use an air fryer. With the right temperature and timing, the air fryer helps create beautifully crunchy crackling on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Why Use an Air Fryer for Pork Belly?
- Crispier crackling without deep frying
- Even, controlled cooking with minimal effort
- Less oil needed compared to roasting
- Faster cooking time than a traditional oven
- Easy cleanup with non-stick baskets
Air fryers from brands like Instant Pot and GreenPan maintain steady heat, helping achieve that golden, bubbly crackling pork belly is known for.
How To Cook Pork Belly in the Air Fryer (Step-by-Step)
1. Prepare the Pork Belly
Pat the pork belly dry using a paper towel. For the best crackling, score the skin lightly and rub generously with salt. You can also add pepper, garlic powder, or your favourite seasoning to the meat side.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 200°C. Some models—like the Salter and Instant Pot air fryers—heat quickly, but preheating ensures even crisping.
3. Cook Skin Side Up
Place the pork belly in the basket with the skin facing upward. Ensure there is room around it for proper air circulation.
4. Cook at Two Temperatures
- Step 1: 200°C for 25–30 minutes to crisp the skin
- Step 2: Reduce to 160°C and cook for another 20–25 minutes
This two-stage method helps develop crackling while keeping the meat tender.
5. Rest Before Slicing
Allow the pork belly to rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside while maintaining the crispy skin.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Pork Belly
- Dry the skin thoroughly before cooking—the drier, the crispier.
- Do not overcrowd the basket; airflow is key.
- Use a small layer of salt on top of the skin for extra crunch.
- Check halfway to ensure the skin is not burning.
- For extra flavour, marinate the meat side overnight.
Best Air Fryers for Cooking Pork Belly
Instant Pot
Known for their powerful heating and precise controls, making them great for crispy crackling.
Salter
Compact designs that still deliver excellent airflow and consistent cooking.
Sheffield
A smart everyday option—excellent performance and easy to clean.
GreenPan
Non-stick ceramic technology ensures the pork belly doesn’t stick, making cleanup simple.
Browse our high-quality air fryers collection here: Shop Air Fryers
Serving Ideas
- Slice into cubes for crispy pork belly bites
- Serve with rice and steamed vegetables
- Add to bao buns with fresh cucumber
- Top ramen or noodle bowls
- Serve as a main with roasted potatoes
Final Thoughts
Cooking pork belly in the air fryer is simple, fast, and incredibly satisfying. With the right technique and a quality air fryer, you can enjoy restaurant-style crispy pork belly at home any time.
Ready to upgrade your air fryer? Explore our full range here: Air Fryers Collection
