Revolutionize Your Cooking: How to Air Fryer Lechon Kawali Like a Pro

Craving the crispy, juicy goodness of lechon kawali but don’t want to deal with the hassle of deep frying? Fear not, because your air fryer is your new best friend! This easy guide on how to air fryer lechon kawali will have you enjoying this Filipino classic with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Why Air Fryer Lechon Kawali?

Air frying has revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier and more convenient alternative to deep frying. Here’s why air frying lechon kawali is a fantastic choice:

• Crispy Perfection: Air fryers circulate hot air, resulting in a beautifully crispy exterior, just like traditional lechon kawali.
• Less Fat: Air frying uses significantly less oil compared to deep frying, making it a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Easy Cleanup: The air fryer basket is usually dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
• Time-Saving: Air fryers cook faster than traditional methods, saving you valuable time in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb pork belly, skin on, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Preparing the Pork Belly:

1. Score the Skin: Using a sharp knife, score the pork belly skin in a criss-cross pattern, making sure to cut through the fat layer but not the meat. This helps the skin crisp up nicely.
2. Season the Pork: In a bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture generously onto the pork belly, ensuring all sides are well coated.
3. Marinate the Pork: In another bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar. Pour this marinade over the seasoned pork belly, making sure it’s fully submerged. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Air Frying the Lechon Kawali:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Air Fry in Batches: Since the air fryer has limited space, you’ll likely need to air fry the pork belly in batches. Place the marinated pork pieces in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the skin is crispy and the pork is cooked through.
3. Rest and Serve: Once the lechon kawali is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Tips for Air Fryer Lechon Kawali Success:

• Don’t Overcrowd: Overcrowding the air fryer basket will prevent the pork from crisping up properly. Air fry in batches for best results.
• Pat Dry: Before air frying, pat the pork belly dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This helps the skin crisp up faster.
• Flip Regularly: Flip the pork belly halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Monitor the Skin: Keep a close eye on the skin as it cooks. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the air fryer temperature slightly.
• Rest is Key: Allow the lechon kawali to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute.

Serving Suggestions:

• Classic Filipino Style: Serve your air fryer lechon kawali with a side of steamed rice, garlic fried rice, or pancit (Filipino noodles). Add a dipping sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili peppers for an extra kick.
• Modern Twist: Elevate your lechon kawali by serving it on a bed of arugula salad with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Top with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch.
• Snack Time: Enjoy your air fryer lechon kawali as a delicious snack with your favorite dipping sauce.

Beyond the Air Fryer: Lechon Kawali Variations

While the air fryer offers a convenient and healthy way to prepare lechon kawali, you can also explore other variations:

• Oven-Baked Lechon Kawali: For a more traditional approach, you can bake the lechon kawali in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the pork belly on a baking sheet, and bake for 1-1.5 hours, flipping halfway through.
• Pan-Fried Lechon Kawali: For a crispy, pan-fried version, sear the pork belly in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown. Then, reduce the heat and cook until the pork is cooked through.

A Feast of Flavor: Embracing the Lechon Kawali Experience

Lechon kawali is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines, and its crispy, flavorful goodness is a true delight to the senses. Whether you choose to air fry, oven bake, or pan-fry, the key is to embrace the process and enjoy the delicious results. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and prepare for a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds craving for more!

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Can I use frozen pork belly for air fryer lechon kawali?
A: It’s best to use fresh pork belly for air fryer lechon kawali. Frozen pork belly will take longer to cook and may not achieve the same crispy texture.
Q: How do I know if the lechon kawali is cooked through?
A: The internal temperature of the pork should reach 145°F (63°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.
Q: Can I reheat air fryer lechon kawali?
A: Yes, you can reheat air fryer lechon kawali in the air fryer for a few minutes until it’s warmed through.
Q: What are some other Filipino dishes I can make in an air fryer?
A: You can make a variety of Filipino dishes in an air fryer, including lumpia (Filipino spring rolls), fish fillets, chicken wings, and even banana cue (caramelized bananas).
Q: How long can I store leftover lechon kawali?
A: Leftover lechon kawali can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in the air fryer or in the oven before serving.