How To Cook Eisbein In An Air Fryer

Eisbein, also known as pork knuckle, is a beloved dish known for its crispy skin and tender, juicy meat. Traditionally, it’s slow-cooked or roasted for hours, but with an air fryer, you can achieve that same golden crispness in less time and with less mess. Cooking eisbein in an air fryer gives you the perfect balance of crunchy crackling and soft, flavorful meat. It’s a modern, convenient way to prepare this classic dish while still keeping all its rich, hearty goodness.

1. Prepare the Eisbein
   Start by washing the pork knuckle thoroughly and patting it dry with a paper towel. This step is important because removing excess moisture helps the skin crisp up in the air fryer. If the eisbein isn’t pre-cooked, it’s best to boil it first. Place it in a pot of water with salt, peppercorns, garlic, bay leaves, and onion. Let it simmer for about an hour and a half until the meat becomes tender but not falling apart. Drain and allow it to cool slightly. If you’re using pre-cooked eisbein, you can skip the boiling step and go straight to air frying.
2. Season the Meat
   Once cooled, rub the eisbein generously with a mixture of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and a touch of oil. You can also add your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra aroma. Make sure to massage the seasoning into the skin and crevices so the flavor spreads evenly.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
   Set your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) and preheat it for about five minutes. Preheating helps the cooking process start immediately and ensures the skin crisps up properly.
4. Air Fry the Eisbein
   Place the seasoned eisbein in the air fryer basket with the skin side facing up. Make sure there’s enough space around it for air to circulate evenly. Cook at 180°C for 25 to 30 minutes, then increase the temperature to 200°C (392°F) for another 10 to 15 minutes to crisp the skin further. Keep an eye on it — the skin should turn golden brown and blistered, while the meat inside stays tender and juicy.
5. Check for Doneness
   When the skin is crispy and the meat pulls away easily from the bone, your eisbein is ready. Let it rest for about five minutes before serving. This allows the juices to settle and keeps the meat moist.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve your air-fried eisbein hot with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, or roasted vegetables. You can also drizzle it with gravy or mustard sauce for extra flavor.

Also Read: How To Cook Chicken Pieces