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As the sun begins to set and the aroma of sweet and savory notes fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel excited about tonight’s dinner: Air Fryer Honey Glazed Pork Belly. A dish that harks back to the bustling streets of Taiwan, this recipe captures the essence of traditional Chinese BBQ, but brings it to your table in less time than it takes to order takeout. With tender pork that practically melts in your mouth and a slightly crispy glaze that caramelizes just right, this dish promises to impress even the pickiest eaters.

On those busy weeknights when fast food beckons, I’ve found that a few minutes in the air fryer can transform pork belly into a succulent masterpiece. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor that rivals anything you could grab on the go. It’s time to ditch the takeout and treat yourself to an unforgettable homemade meal that’s as satisfying as it is quick. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delightful Asian-inspired dish that you and your family are sure to love!

Why love Honey Glazed Pork Belly?

Tender meat, beautifully marinated to perfection, elevates any dining experience.
Quick and easy, this air fryer recipe whips up faster than a drive-thru run.
Savory-sweet balance: the glaze creates an irresistible combination that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Healthy twists: enjoy rich flavors without the guilt, as air frying reduces excess oil.
Versatile serving: pair it with rice, or slip it into a sandwich for a delightful lunch option.
You’ll never look at pork belly the same way again!

Honey Glazed Pork Belly Ingredients

For the Marinade

Pork Belly – Main ingredient providing a rich, succulent base; choose a cut with layers of fat for moisture.
Oyster Sauce – Adds a savory depth to the marinade; substitute with vegetarian oyster sauce for shellfish allergies.
Soy Sauce – Contributes umami and saltiness to balance sweetness perfectly in this Honey Glazed Pork Belly.
Fresh Grated Ginger – Introduces a warming spice note; fresh is recommended over powdered for the best flavor.
Honey – Sweetens the dish and contributes to caramelization; adjust the quantity for personal sweetness preference.
Chinese Cooking Wine (optional) – Enhances flavor complexity; feel free to omit if unavailable.
Five-Spice Powder – Adds aromatic spices; essential for capturing the authentic taste of this dish.

For Serving

Steamed Rice – A perfect base to absorb flavors; consider jasmine or basmati for added fragrance.
Pickled Vegetables – Optional crunchy side that balances the richness; try pickled cucumbers or radishes.
Fresh Herbs – Optional garnishes like cilantro or green onions brighten up the dish and add color.

Gather these ingredients and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable homemade meal that takes you straight to the heart of Asian street food!

How to Make Honey Glazed Pork Belly

Poke Holes: Use a fork to poke holes all over the pork belly. This step will allow the marinade to soak in deliciously, ensuring flavor throughout.
Marinate: In a large bowl, combine pork belly with oyster sauce, soy sauce, grated ginger, honey, cooking wine, and five-spice powder. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes; for deeper flavor, overnight is best.
Air Fry: Place the marinated pork belly in the air fryer basket. Set the temperature to 380°F and cook for 12 minutes on one side. The meat should be beautifully caramelized when you flip it!
Crisp Finish: After flipping, cook for an additional 12 minutes. For an even crispier skin, air fry the pork belly skin-side up for another 5 minutes, checking for a golden-brown appearance.
Serve: Slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces. Drizzle any leftover, simmered marinade over the top and serve with fluffy steamed rice for a delightful meal.

Optional: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for an aromatic touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Honey Glazed Pork Belly

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures your Honey Glazed Pork Belly stays fresh and ready for quick meals.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork belly in a tightly wrapped container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method maintains the pork’s crispy texture and delicious flavor.

Note: Always simmer any leftover marinade before using it as a sauce to ensure food safety and boost flavor.

Honey Glazed Pork Belly Variations

Explore delightful twists on this classic dish and discover how to make it truly your own!

Lean Choice: Swap pork belly for pork tenderloin for a lighter, yet still flavorful option. Adjust cooking time to prevent dryness.
Teriyaki Twist: Elevate the flavor profile by using teriyaki sauce instead of oyster sauce for a sweeter, bolder glaze. This variation adds a wonderful depth to your dish that everyone will enjoy.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or freshly sliced chilies to the marinade for a bold kick of heat that dances on your taste buds. This spicy nuance complements the sweetness beautifully.
Vegan Delight: Replace pork with cauliflower or eggplant, marinating the vegetables in the same sauce. Air fry until tender for a delightful plant-based alternative that captures the essence of the original.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro in the marinade for an aromatic lift and a burst of freshness that brightens the dish.
Garlic Boost: Add minced garlic to the marinade for a savory punch. The garlic enhances the overall depth of flavors, creating an aromatic, mouth-watering experience.
Citrus Zing: Squeeze in some fresh lime or orange juice for a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness of the pork belly. This delightful addition can create a refreshing twist on the flavor balance.
Maple Glaze: Swap honey for maple syrup for a unique flavor that adds a different kind of sweetness and enriches that caramelized finish.

Expert Tips for Honey Glazed Pork Belly

Marinate Overnight: For enhanced flavor, marinate the pork belly overnight. The longer the soak, the more deliciously infused the flavors will be.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure pork reaches at least 145°F, which helps prevent undercooking or overcooking this Honey Glazed Pork Belly.
Avoid Soggy Skin: Pat the pork belly dry before air frying; moisture can prevent skin from crisping up nicely during cooking.
Simmer Safely: Always simmer any leftover marinade before using it as a sauce to ensure it’s safe for consumption and bursting with flavor.
Cut for Crispiness: Slice the pork belly into smaller pieces before serving to enhance the crispy texture, making for a more enjoyable bite.

What to Serve with Honey Glazed Pork Belly?

Elevate your dining experience by complementing the rich flavors of this succulent dish with delightful sides that sing harmony on your plate.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Provides a fluffy base that soaks up the delicious glaze, balancing the sweet-savory notes beautifully.
Pickled Vegetables: These crunchy, tangy treats make a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich pork, enhancing every bite.
Sautéed Broccoli: Adds a vibrant green crunch, its slight bitterness offsetting the sweetness, creating a well-rounded meal.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this crisp salad cools the palate and offers a delightful textural contrast to the pork belly.
Fresh Herbs: Bright toppings like cilantro or green onions not only elevate the dish’s appearance but also add a fragrant kick to each bite.
Asian Slaw: A crunchy medley of veggies tossed in a zesty dressing brings extra crunch and vibrant flavor to the table.
Chili Garlic Sauce: For those who crave a kick, this fiery condiment provides a bold contrast to the honey glaze, igniting flavors in every mouthful.
Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat wraps up the meal with a luscious finish, echoing the flavors of the main dish.
Iced Green Tea: Refreshing and slightly earthy, this drink beautifully complements the savory notes of the pork, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Light Beer: A cold, crisp beer provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richer elements of the dish while enhancing the overall flavor bliss.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey Glazed Pork Belly pieces are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the pork belly in the savory-sweet mixture for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring that all those delightful flavors soak in. Just refrigerate the marinated pork in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy this captivating dish, simply place the pork belly in the air fryer and cook as directed. For optimal quality, be sure to check the internal temperature for doneness, and remember that it will still be just as delicious even if made ahead! Enjoy the convenience and kickfast food to the curb with this delightful homemade meal!

Air Fryer Honey Glazed Pork Belly Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right pork belly?
Absolutely! When selecting pork belly, look for a cut with balanced layers of meat and fat. A thicker layer of fat guarantees moistness and flavor. Additionally, ensure it’s fresh, with no dark spots or an unpleasant odor, as freshness significantly impacts the dish’s final taste.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store any leftover Honey Glazed Pork Belly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to keep your Honey Glazed Pork Belly longer, freeze it in a tightly sealed freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. For thawing, transfer it to the fridge overnight. When ready to reheat, just pop it in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 350°F to regain that lovely crispiness.

What if my pork belly isn’t crispy?
Not a problem! If your Honey Glazed Pork Belly doesn’t crisp up as much as you’d like, there are a few things you can do. First, ensure that you’ve pat the pork belly dry before air frying to reduce moisture. Secondly, try air frying skin side up for an extra 5 minutes after the initial cooking time. Lastly, if you’re using a thicker cut, cooking it slightly longer may help achieve that delightful crisp!

Can my pet share this meal with me?
It’s essential to be cautious! While cooked plain pork can be safe for pets, the ingredients in this marinade—particularly garlic and honey—are not advisable for dogs or cats. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing any human food with your furry friends to keep them healthy and safe.

Is this recipe suitable for my dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can easily adapt this Honey Glazed Pork Belly recipe for various dietary needs. If you have shellfish allergies, substitute the oyster sauce with a vegetarian option or use soy sauce with a dash of mushroom seasoning. You can also use a leaner cut like pork tenderloin if you’re looking for fewer calories, but be mindful of reducing the cooking time to avoid drying it out.