Pork scratchings have been a classic in Danish cuisine for many years, and the crispy, salted scratchings are often a highlight at the lunch table during Christmas lunches and other festive occasions. With the growing popularity of air fryers, it has now become even easier to make pork scratchings at home – without turning on the oven. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why you should consider making pork scratchings in an air fryer. Where does the dish come from? What variations can you try to create your own personal version of this classic dish?
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Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Table of contents
Why make pork scratchings in an air fryer?
Making pork scratchings in an air fryer is quick, efficient, and delivers a fantastic result. One of the biggest advantages of using an air fryer is the even cooking. Because an air fryer circulates hot air around the food, the pork scratchings become crispy on all sides – just shake the basket halfway through. That way there’s no risk of them being burnt on one side and undercooked on the other.
Another major advantage is that the air fryer uses significantly less fat than traditional methods. Although pork scratchings are naturally a fatty food, the air fryer drains away much of the excess fat during cooking, which means the result is both crispy and crunchy without being too greasy. This method also reduces odours compared to deep-frying or oven cooking, since the fat is collected in a drawer beneath the scratchings instead of being splattered around the kitchen.
Time is also an important factor. In a regular oven, pork scratchings can take up to an hour to cook. With an air fryer, you can achieve the same result in 20-30 minutes. For anyone looking for a quick and easy way to make pork scratchings, the air fryer is an obvious choice.
I recommend this fresh IPA for our salted pork scratchings
Crispy pork scratchings need a little something to stand up to them, and a cold IPA is always a safe winner alongside the pig’s great flavour. I can highly recommend IPA – Can 44cl – cheers and enjoy!
Where does the dish come from?
Pork scratchings are an old food that dates back to a time when no part of the pig went to waste. Many cultures have a tradition of using the whole animal, and this applies to the pig as well. Pork scratchings – the crispy skin from the pig – have been a delicacy for centuries, especially in countries like Denmark, England, and Spain.
In Denmark, pork scratchings have been a staple part of the diet for many generations, especially around Christmas and other major holidays. The scratchings were traditionally cooked in the oven, often as part of the pork roast, where the crackling had to be crunchy and crispy to complete the dish. It was a way of ensuring that nothing from the pig went to waste. At the same time, it was a way to enjoy something as simple as crackling, with a texture and flavour that has made it a favourite for many.
In England, “pork cracklings” is a popular snack, often sold in small bags in supermarkets and pubs, while the Spanish “chicharrones” is known for its intense flavour and crunch. Although the methods for preparing pork scratchings vary from country to country, the principle is the same: the pig’s skin is cut into small pieces, seasoned, and cooked until crispy and golden.
Although pork scratchings are a classic dish closely tied to tradition, modern technology like the air fryer has made it possible to prepare this old delicacy in new and faster ways.
What variations can you make of pork scratchings in an air fryer?
Although classic pork scratchings in the air fryer are simply salted crackling, there are many ways to vary this snack to suit personal preferences or different meals. Here are some exciting variations you can try:
- Spiced pork scratchings: Add different spices such as paprika, chilli, garlic powder, or cayenne pepper to the scratchings before cooking. This will give them an extra dimension of flavour and make them more exciting as a snack or as a side to a main course.
- Asian-style pork scratchings: If you’re a fan of Asian flavours, you can marinate the pork scratchings in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic before cooking. This version of pork scratchings goes well with rice dishes or as a snack with a cold beer.
- Herb pork scratchings: For a more aromatic version, you can rub the pork scratchings with a blend of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano. This gives a milder flavour that goes well with various dishes, especially if you serve them as part of a lunch platter.
- Sweet and salty pork scratchings: If you’re into the sweet and salty combination, you can sprinkle a little sugar or honey over the pork scratchings once they’re done cooking. This combination creates an interesting contrast between crispy, salty, and sweet, and is a hit as a snack at a party.
- Low-carb pork scratchings: Pork scratchings are already a low-carb snack. But you can take it a step further by experimenting with different fats or oils such as coconut oil or duck fat to add extra flavour without adding carbs. This is a great choice for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Try adding a small amount of baking powder along with the salt when preparing the pork scratchings. The baking powder helps break down the proteins in the crackling, making it extra crispy and light during cooking. However, be sure to use it in small amounts, as it can affect the flavour if too much is added.
Tips and tricks from the author: Morten Jensen
Pork scratchings in the air fryer – crispy in 20-30 minutes
Pork scratchings are a beloved classic in Danish cuisine. With an air fryer, it has become even easier to make them at home. It makes the process faster, simpler, and less greasy. This means you can enjoy crispy pork scratchings in no time. The dish has roots in old traditions, where the whole pig was used, and it’s still just as popular today as a snack or as a side to main meals.
Although classic pork scratchings are simple and require just a little salt, there are many ways to vary the dish and give it a personal twist with different spices, marinades, and serving suggestions. Whatever variation you choose, pork scratchings from the air fryer are an easy and delicious snack that will impress both family and guests.
FAQ
Pork scratchings need 20-30 minutes at 200 °C. Shake the basket halfway through so they crisp up on all sides, and keep an eye on them for the last few minutes – they’re ready when they’re golden and crispy.
No, it’s optional. If you boil them in lightly salted water for about 10 minutes first, the skin becomes more tender and easier to crisp up. Just remember to let them dry completely before you rub them with salt and put them in the air fryer.
The most common reason is moisture – the skin needs to be completely dry before it goes into the air fryer. Arrange the pieces in a single layer so the air can circulate, and feel free to give them a few extra minutes at 200 °C. A small amount of baking powder mixed with the salt can also help them crisp up.
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Pork scratchings in the Air Fryer
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Ingredients
How to make it
- Cut the 500 g pork scratchings into suitable pieces, if they aren’t already cut.
- (Optional) Pre-boil the pork scratchings in 5 dl water with 1 tsp salt for about 10 minutes, then let them dry thoroughly.
- Place the pork scratchings in the air fryer in a single layer, so they don’t overlap.
- Set the air fryer to 200°C and cook for 20-30 minutes. Start the online kitchen timer hereShake the basket halfway through for even cooking.
- When the pork scratchings are golden and crispy, remove them and place them on kitchen paper to remove excess fat.
- Serve after 5 minutes as a snack or side dish.
Our notes for the recipe
- Make sure the pork scratchings are completely dry before cooking, to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Pork scratchings can be seasoned further with, for example, paprika, chilli or garlic powder, to taste.
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Nutrition per serving (Guideline)
Important about shelf life and nutrition
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