Air Fryer Pork Bones

Chinese Air Fryer Pork Bones 

A Simple, Flavorful, and Tender Home-Style Recipe

Introduction

Chinese “Da Gu Tou” refers to big pork bones—usually pork shanks or marrow bones—known for their rich flavor and satisfying texture. Traditionally, they are stewed for a long time, but with an air fryer, you can achieve crispy edges and deep flavor with far less effort.

This air fryer version is quick, convenient, and perfect for anyone who wants tender, juicy pork bones with a fragrant roasted aroma.

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Ingredients

• Pork bones (big marrow bones or pork shanks) – 1–1.5 kg

• Light soy sauce – 2 tablespoons

• Dark soy sauce – 1 tablespoon

• Cooking wine (Shaoxing wine) – 1 tablespoon

• Salt – 1 teaspoon

• Sugar – 1 teaspoon

• Ginger slices – 4–6 pieces

• Garlic (crushed) – 4 cloves

• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon

• Five-spice powder – ½ teaspoon (optional)

• Chili powder or chili flakes – optional, to taste

• Oil – 1 tablespoon (to help browning in the air fryer)

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Instructions

Step 1: Clean and Pre-Boil the Pork Bones

1. Rinse the pork bones thoroughly under running water.

2. Place them in a pot, add enough water to cover, and bring to a boil.

3. Boil for 5–8 minutes to remove impurities and blood foam.

4. Rinse the bones under warm water and drain.

This step ensures a clean taste and removes any strong odor.

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Step 2: Marinate the Pork Bones

1. Place the bones in a large bowl.

2. Add:

   • Light soy sauce

   • Dark soy sauce

   • Cooking wine

   • Sugar

   • Salt

   • Ginger slices

   • Garlic

   • Five-spice powder

   • Black pepper

   • Optional chili powder

3. Mix well, massaging the marinade onto every bone surface.

4. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or refrigerate overnight for best flavor.

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Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (360°F) for 3 minutes.

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Step 4: Air Fry the Pork Bones

1. Brush or spray a little oil on the pork bones to help with browning.

2. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer (avoid stacking).

3. Air fry at:
   180°C (360°F) for 20 minutes
   Flip the bones halfway through.

4. After 20 minutes, increase the temperature to:
   200°C (392°F) for another 10–15 minutes
   This crisps up the edges and deepens the color.

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Step 5: Check and Serve

• The pork bones should be dark golden, slightly crispy on the outside, and tender inside.

• Sprinkle with chili powder, cumin, or sesame seeds if desired.

Serve hot with rice, noodles, or enjoy them directly as a delicious snack.

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Tips

• Marinating overnight makes the bones extra flavorful.

• If you prefer more tender texture, steam the bones for 20 minutes before air frying.

• Add honey or maltose to the marinade for a shiny glaze.

• Line the air fryer with foil to make cleanup easier.