1 Shares

There’s a certain excitement that fills the kitchen when I’m preparing a dish that feels both comforting and adventurous. Recently, I found myself captivated by the bold flavors of Lao cuisine, and that’s when I decided to try my hand at Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som. Imagine tender, juicy pork belly marinated overnight in fragrant lemongrass and garlic, transformed in the air fryer into a crispy delight reminiscent of traditional grilling.

This recipe not only simplifies the cooking process but also delivers rich, complex flavors that will impress your family and friends. I love the way the crispy bites pair with the spicy and tangy jeow som dipping sauce, creating an explosion of taste with every mouthful. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself after a long week, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings the heart of Lao cooking right to your dinner table. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!

Why is Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som a Must-Try?

Deliciously Bold Flavors: Every bite of the Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly bursts with rich umami thanks to aromatic lemongrass and garlic.

Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives you that coveted crispy texture with less oil than traditional frying.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and a few simple ingredients, you can impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it as a snack, appetizer, or alongside rice—this dish adapts to any meal occasion.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table.

Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly Ingredients

For the Pork Belly
• Pork Belly – The star of the dish; use skin-on for a crispy finish.
• Minced Lemongrass – Adds a fragrant citrus flavor; lemon zest can substitute if needed.
• Minced Garlic – Provides depth and aroma; opt for fresh for the best flavor.
• Oyster Sauce – Contributes sweetness and umami; hoisin can be a great vegetarian swap.
• Soy Sauce – Enhances the savory notes; low-sodium options lighten the dish.
• Fish Sauce – Adds a salty zing; substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian version.
• Sugar – Balances the savory elements; brown sugar gives a more robust flavor.
• MSG (optional) – Boosts umami; skip if you’re avoiding MSG.
• Oil – Helps with cooking and crisps the pork; any neutral oil works well.
• Black Pepper – Adds a touch of heat; freshly ground will amplify the flavors.

For the Jeow Som
• Fish Sauce – The base for saltiness and depth; use soy for a vegetarian alternative.
• Sugar – Balances the sauce’s tang; adjust to your taste preferences.
• Chili – Provides the kick; tailor the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
• Lime Juice – Adds essential acidity; always use fresh juice for the best taste.
• Garlic Cloves – Elevates the sauce; crushed or minced is perfect for flavor.
• Cilantro – Brings freshness to the dish; swap with parsley if needed.

Enjoy the delightful journey of flavors that comes with preparing Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som!

How to Make Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som

Marinate Pork Belly: In a large bowl, combine minced lemongrass, garlic, oyster sauce, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, MSG, oil, and black pepper. Coat the pork belly evenly and let it marinate in the refrigerator overnight for maximum flavor.
Prepare Jeow Som: In a separate bowl, mix fish sauce, sugar, chopped chili, lime juice, crushed garlic, and cilantro. Stir well and adjust the seasoning to your taste for a balance of spicy and tangy.
Air Fry Pork Belly: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated pork belly in the basket and cook for 20-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until it is perfectly crispy and golden brown.
Serve: Once the pork belly is done, slice it into bite-sized pieces and serve with the prepared jeow som dipping sauce. Add fresh lettuce and cucumber on the side for a refreshing touch.

Optional: Garnish with extra cilantro on top for added freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som

Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Ensure it’s cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked pork belly in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to 3 months; just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating: Reheat pork belly in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to regain its crispy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the meat chewy.

Jeow Som Storage: Store jeow som in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It may thicken, so add a splash of lime juice before serving for an extra zing!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly

Perfect Marination: Letting pork belly marinate overnight allows the flavors to deeply penetrate, ensuring every bite is full of rich taste.
Watch the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption while keeping it juicy.
Thickness Matters: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your pork belly slices; thinner pieces may cook faster than expected.
Crispy Skin Secrets: Ensure the skin-on pork belly is patted dry before marinating for the crispiest finish in your air fryer.
Flavor Balance: Taste your jeow som and tweak the chili and sugar to achieve the perfect blend of spicy and tangy that complements the pork belly.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som?

Elevate your culinary experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides that enhance its rich flavors and textures.

Crispy Rice Cakes: The crunchy texture of rice cakes provides a wonderful contrast to the tender pork belly, absorbing the vibrant flavors of jeow som deliciously.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A salad of thinly sliced cucumbers dressed with lime and herbs balances the richness of the pork belly with refreshing acidity and crunch.
Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice serves as a perfect neutral base, soaking up the delicious sauce and rounding out your meal beautifully.
Thai Basil Spring Rolls: These light and fresh rolls filled with veggies and herbs add a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness, making them a perfect dip in jeow som.
Pickled Vegetables: The tangy, slightly sweet notes of pickled vegetables amplify the flavors of the pork belly, providing a perfect counterbalance to its richness.
Iced Thai Tea: Sip on sweet and creamy iced Thai tea to enjoy the perfect marriage of flavors, soothing the palate against the spicy notes of your meal.

Each of these pairings offers a unique dimension, ensuring that your dining experience is as exciting and fulfilling as the Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som itself!

Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som Variations

Feel free to explore new flavors and ingredients, creating your own personal twist on this delightful dish!

Chicken Thighs: Substitute pork belly with skin-on chicken thighs for a leaner yet flavorful option. The marinade will work beautifully with the juicy chicken.
Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian take, use firm tofu, marinating and air frying for a crispy treat that captures all those scrumptious flavors.
Low-Sodium Twist: Choose low-sodium soy sauce and omit MSG for a healthier, lighter version great for those watching their salt intake.
Herb Boost: Infuse the marinade with fresh herbs like basil or mint to add an aromatic twist that complements the dish’s rich flavors.
Spice Level: Adjust the number of chilis in the jeow som to control the heat; less for a milder sauce or more for a fiery kick that excites the palate.
Sugar Alternatives: Experiment with coconut sugar or honey in the marinade and dipping sauce, adding a unique sweetness that resonates with Lao cooking.

The versatility of this recipe is what makes it so special. Each variation allows you to put your own signature touch on an already delicious dish. Enjoy your culinary exploration!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can marinate the pork belly up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors of lemongrass and garlic to deepen—just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the jeow som dipping sauce up to 3 days ahead; simply mix all the ingredients and refrigerate. When ready to serve, air fry the marinated pork belly as directed and enjoy the crispy, mouthwatering results with your homemade jeow som—deliciousness awaits with minimal effort!

Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly with Jeow Som Recipe FAQs

What type of pork belly should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using skin-on pork belly. The skin crisps up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you that perfect crunch. Look for pork belly that has a good balance of meat and fat—this will ensure a juicy outcome.

How should I store leftovers of Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly?
Store leftover Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the pork is cooled before sealing the container to avoid moisture build-up. Reheating it in the air fryer keeps that glorious crispness intact.

Can I freeze the pork belly after cooking?
Certainly! To freeze, allow your cooked pork belly to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes for the best texture.

What if I don’t have lemongrass? Can I use something else?
Great question! If you don’t have minced lemongrass on hand, you can substitute it with lemon zest. It won’t have the same depth of flavor, but it will provide a lovely citrus note to the dish. If you have access to lemon extract, you can very lightly use that too, but be cautious as it is quite potent!

How can I adjust the spice level in the jeow som sauce?
The more the merrier! To adjust the heat in your jeow som, start with a smaller amount of chili when preparing the sauce. You can always add more if you want a spicier kick. Another approach is to use milder peppers, like a bell pepper or poblano, if you prefer a fresher taste without the heat while still maintaining a lovely color.

Is this dish suitable for my dog (or other pets)?
While the Air Fryer Lao Pork Belly is delicious for humans, it’s important to avoid sharing it with pets, especially the parts containing garlic, onion, or any seasoning. Always stick to pet-safe treats and consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about certain foods.