Crispy Five Spice Air Fryer Pork Belly with Roasted Cabbage

This crispy five spice air fryer pork belly eats like a richer, dinner-worthy take on keto air fryer bacon, with shattering crackle and deeply seasoned bites balanced by a pile of roasted cabbage and sweet red pepper. It is completely diabetic-friendly and low carb, using a sugar-free glaze and high-fiber vegetables to keep net carbs in check while delivering big flavor. If you cook for a crowd, this scales well in a family size air fryer for low carb weeknights without fuss. Why it works for blood sugar: each serving lands under 5 grams net carbs, with most of the plate coming from protein and fat plus fiber-rich cabbage that slows digestion. Pork belly’s fat gives lasting satiety, helping minimize post-meal spikes. We season with allulose for gentle browning without sugar; it caramelizes better than most alternatives and does not raise glucose. For more inspiration across proteins, see all our [pork recipes](/recipes/category/pork). If you prefer a lighter protein on other nights, explore low carb air fryer salmon for a lean, omega-3 rich swap. Our air fryer temperature keto method uses a two-stage cook: first a lower heat to render and tenderize, then a hotter blast to crisp the surface. The result is succulent pork that still meets USDA safety. Nutrition highlights per serving: about 500 calories, 10 grams protein, 48 grams fat, and approximately 4 grams net carbs. That balance supports steady energy for many people managing diabetes. For best results, pat the pork very dry, then dust with a touch of baking powder and five spice for blistered crackle. Use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) and cook until the thickest piece reaches at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit, then rest 3 minutes. A [quality olive oil sprayer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) helps lightly coat vegetables without excess oil, and parchment liners or a raised rack are handy keto air fryer accessories for airflow and easy cleanup. If you are new to this cooking style, our [beginner's air fryer guide](/blog/beginners-air-fryer-guide) explains basket placement and airflow. Serve the pork belly over the roasted cabbage, add a squeeze of lime, and finish with scallions. It pairs perfectly with our creamy, crunchy [keto coleslaw](/recipes/keto-coleslaw). For make-ahead meals, refrigerate leftovers in a shallow container up to 3 days and re-crisp in the air fryer at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes. For streamlined planning, check our [keto meal prep tips](/blog/keto-meal-prep-guide). FAQ - What is the total time from start to table? About 40 minutes including rest time. - What low-carb sweetener works best here? Allulose browns beautifully and tastes clean; erythritol works too but may not caramelize as well. - What can I use instead of almond flour in this recipe? This recipe does not require almond flour. If you want a crunchy coating on added veggies, use crushed pork rinds or a light dusting of coconut flour instead.

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 28 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pork belly, skin-on preferred, cut into 1 inch strips
• 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp Chinese five spice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp allulose or erythritol
• 1 tsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about 10 oz)
• 1 cup red bell pepper strips (about 3.5 oz)
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil, optional for finishing
• 2 tbsp thinly sliced scallions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prep the pork: Pat pork belly completely dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 tsp kosher salt, baking powder, five spice, garlic powder, black pepper, and allulose. Sprinkle evenly over pork and toss to coat. Drizzle with rice vinegar and toss again.
2. Preheat the air fryer to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray the basket or a rack with oil to prevent sticking.
3. Render and tenderize: Arrange pork belly pieces in a single layer with space between them. Air fry at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through.
4. Crisp it up: Increase the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue cooking 6 to 8 minutes, or until the surface is crisp and the thickest piece reaches at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Verify with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). Transfer to a plate and rest 3 minutes.
5. Roast the vegetables: While the pork rests, toss cabbage and bell pepper with olive oil, remaining 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and red pepper flakes if using. Air fry at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 6 to 8 minutes, shaking once, until tender with charred edges.
6. Finish and serve: Toss hot vegetables with sesame oil if using. Plate cabbage and peppers, top with pork belly, and garnish with scallions. Serve immediately.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer