Trader Joe’s Air Fryer Pork Belly Rice Bowl

Have you been looking for the perfect dinner with only a few ingredients? Here is one of the best Air Fryer Pork Belly Rice Bowl recipes.

What Is A Pork Belly Rice Bowl?

A Pork Belly Rice Bowl, often referred to in some cuisines as a “Pork Belly Donburi” or simply “Pork Belly Bowl,” is a dish that features slices or pieces of succulent pork belly as its primary protein, usually served atop a bed of steamed rice.

Easy Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Meal

Trader Joe’s offers a plethora of ready-to-cook or partially prepared items that are perfect for the air fryer.

Some of my favorite meals made with Trader Joe’s Meals are:

• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Cilantro Wontons
• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Spinach and Cheese Pizza Bread
• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Bool Kogi
• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Gyro Slices

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pork Belly Rice Bowl

Remember, these ingredients can be purchased at your local Traer Joe’s grocery store. All of them are simple ingredients, and when put together, they are amazing!

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Pork Belly: A luscious, fatty cut from the pig’s belly that, when air-fried, becomes irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender inside.
• Jasmine Rice: The soft and fluffy base that absorbs the flavors and juices of the pork belly, providing a neutral contrast.
• Soyaki Sauce: A salty and savory condiment that adds depth and umami to the dish.
• Honey: Adds a punch of aromatic flavor, which complements the richness of the pork.
• Green Onions: Provides a fresh and slightly sharp contrast, enhancing the dish’s layers of flavor.
• Soft Boiled Eggs: Add some protein to the dish; they can be fried or hard-boiled, depending on what you want your eggs.
• Sesame Seeds: Adds a subtle crunch and nuttiness, perfect as a garnish.
• Black Garlic and Crunchy Chili Onion: For those who prefer a spicy kick, these add heat and vibrant color to the bowl.

How To Cook Pork Belly Rice Bowl In Air Fryer

Dive into the world of crispy, savory delights with the Air Fryer Pork Belly Rice Bowl. Harnessing the convenience and efficiency of the air fryer, this dish transforms A simple pork belly into a tantalizing centerpiece, all while preserving its tender juiciness.

Paired with perfectly steamed rice and a symphony of flavors from Asian-inspired condiments, this bowl promises a gustatory experience that’s quick to prepare and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, let’s embark on this culinary journey to create a restaurant-worthy dish at home.

Preparation:

• In a mixing bowl, combine honey and Soyaki, and mix well.
• Add the pork belly slices to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the marinade. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

Air Frying the Pork Belly:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Once heated, arrange the marinated pork belly slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they aren’t overlapping for even cooking.
• Cook time at 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pork belly should be golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Preparing the Rice Bowl:

While the pork belly is cooking, prepare your steamed rice (using a rice cooker or stovetop method). In individual bowls, add a generous serving of steamed rice.

Assembly:

Once the pork belly is done, let it cool for a couple of minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces. Place the sliced pork belly on top of the steamed rice in each bowl, and add your eggs.

Drizzle a bit of sesame oil over the top for added flavor. Garnish with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and black garlic, and drizzle with Crunchy Chili Onion, if desired.

Serving:

Serve the Pork Belly Rice Bowl hot with side dishes like kimchi, pickled radishes, or a light salad. If you have extra marinade or dipping sauce, provide it on the side for an additional flavor boost.

Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness of the Pork Belly Rice Bowl straight from your air fryer! This dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for a restaurant-quality meal made right at home.

Pro Tips For Making Air Fryer Pork Belly Rice Bowl

• Marinating Time: Allow the pork belly to marinate for as long as possible. Overnight marinating ensures deeper flavor penetration and a richer taste.
• Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Place pork belly slices in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap, for even cooking and crispiness.
• Fat Rendering: Pork belly has a significant fat content. It’s crucial to render out the fat effectively to achieve a crispy texture. A longer air frying time at a slightly lower temperature can help achieve this without burning the meat.
• Check for Doneness: While the exterior should be crispy, the inside should remain tender. Depending on the thickness of your pork belly slices, cooking times can vary. Always check for doneness before serving.
• Resting Time: After air frying, let the pork belly rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring a moist result.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of mirin (sweet rice wine) or rice vinegar to your marinade.
• Serving Temperature: Serve the pork belly hot over warm rice to enjoy its full flavor and texture. Cold or lukewarm pork belly can become too fatty or greasy.
• Garnish Generously: Fresh garnishes like green onions, cilantro, or even a sprinkle of toasted nori can elevate the dish’s visual appeal and contrast the rich pork belly.
• Complementary Sides: Serve with tangy or pickled side dishes. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the pork belly and balances the meal.
• Rice Varieties: While white steamed rice is traditional, consider using brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a different texture and nutritional profile.

Remember, the beauty of homemade dishes lies in the freedom to tweak and adjust according to personal preferences. So, experiment, adjust, and enjoy the culinary journey of crafting the perfect Air Fryer Pork Belly Rice Bowl!

Can I use a different cut of pork if I don’t have pork belly?
While pork belly offers a distinct fatty flavor and texture, you can use other cuts like pork shoulder or tenderloin. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as they may not require as long.

---

Is there a vegetarian alternative to pork belly in this recipe?
Yes! You can use tofu, especially extra-firm tofu, as a substitute. Marinate and air fry similarly, but adjust the cooking time as tofu will cook faster.

---

How long can I store leftover Air Fryer Pork Belly Rice Bowl?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave before serving.

---

I don’t have an air fryer. Can I still make this dish?
Absolutely! You can use an oven or a skillet to cook the pork belly. Adjust cooking times and temperatures accordingly.

---

Can I marinate the pork belly in advance?
Yes, in fact, marinating the pork belly overnight will enhance its flavor. If short on time, a minimum of 30 minutes is recommended.

---

Is the dish spicy?
The chili flakes can add some heat. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the chili flakes from the recipe.

---

Can I add other vegetables to the rice bowl?
Of course! Vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or even pickled radishes make excellent additions to the bowl.

---

Can I use store-bought sauces or marinades instead of the suggested one?
Absolutely. There are plenty of store-bought Asian marinades that can work well with this recipe. Just ensure to check the seasoning and adjust it to your preference.

---

What’s the difference between air frying and traditional frying for pork belly?
Air frying uses circulating hot air to cook the food, requiring little to no oil, resulting in a crisp exterior with fewer calories and less fat. Traditional frying involves submerging the pork belly in hot oil, which can lead to a higher fat content.

---

Can I use frozen pork belly slices?
Yes, you can. However, ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking to achieve the best flavor and texture.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Mozzarella Sticks
• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s French Fries
• Easy Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Gyoza
• Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken
• ​Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Potstickers