Reheating leftover sweet and sour pork in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy the delicious Chinese takeout again without losing any texture or flavor. Using an air fryer to reheat sweet and sour pork can help revive the crispy battered coating on the pork and vegetables. With just a few simple tips, you can reheat takeout sweet and sour pork perfectly in your air fryer.
Can You Reheat Sweet and Sour Pork in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely reheat sweet and sour pork in an air fryer! An air fryer is a great way to reheat takeout dishes like sweet and sour pork because it relies on circulating hot air rather than oil to quickly heat up and crisp up foods. The air fryer settings are ideal for reheating anything breaded or battered, like the crispy pork and veggies in sweet and sour pork. The hot air will revive the crispy texture of the battered coating that can otherwise turn soggy in the microwave.
Benefits of Using an Air Fryer
Here are some of the benefits of using an air fryer to reheat sweet and sour pork:
- Revives crispy texture – The hot air flow will recrisp the battered coating on the pork and vegetables.
- Quick – Air fryers reheat food very quickly, usually in just 5-10 minutes.
- Even heating – The circulating air heats food evenly and prevents cold spots.
- No oil needed – Air fryers don’t require extra oil for reheating so food won’t get greasy.
- Easy cleanup – Air fryers have minimal cleanup since no oil is used.
The air fryer will bring sweet and sour pork back to nearly freshly cooked texture and taste. The batter will become crispy and crunchy again while the sauce and filling heat through.
How to Reheat Sweet and Sour Pork in an Air Fryer
Follow these simple steps for reheating takeout sweet and sour pork in an air fryer:
- Preheat air fryer to 330°F.
- Transfer sweet and sour pork to air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overlap.
- Reheat for 5-7 minutes, until heated through and crispy.
- Toss or flip pork halfway for even reheating.
- Check temperature using a meat thermometer if needed.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
It’s quick and easy. The air fryer’s heat will penetrate the sauce and filling while also crisping up the battered exterior. Flipping the pork halfway will ensure even reheating. A meat thermometer isn’t necessary but can be used to check for a safe internal temperature of 165°F if desired.
Tips for Reheating Sweet and Sour Pork in an Air Fryer
Follow these tips for the best results when reheating sweet and sour pork in an air fryer:
- Cut larger pieces into smaller, equally sized pieces so they reheat evenly.
- Avoid overcrowding – only reheat one serving at a time for crispiest results.
- Brush pork with a little oil before reheating for extra crispy coating.
- For more moisture, add a splash of water to the air fryer.
- Stir sauce and toss pork pieces a couple times during reheating.
- Check often to prevent overcooking.
- Use care removing basket after reheating as contents will be hot.
Following these simple air fryer reheating tips will ensure you get the same delicious texture and flavor as the day you ordered it. Crispy, saucy sweet and sour pork is just minutes away!
How Long Does Sweet and Sour Pork Last in the Fridge?
Properly stored, leftover sweet and sour pork will last 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. To maximize freshness and shelf life, follow these storage guidelines:
- Store sweet and sour pork in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
- Ensure pork is cooled to below 40°F within 2 hours of cooking.
- Keep sweet and sour pork in the back of the fridge where temperature is most consistent.
- Avoid storing for longer than 3 to 4 days.
- Discard if you notice any off smells, textures, or discoloration.
The sauce may thicken slightly when chilled but will thin out again when reheated. For best quality and food safety, enjoy leftover sweet and sour pork within 3 to 4 days. If reheating after freezing, first thaw in the refrigerator before using the air fryer.
Can You Freeze Sweet and Sour Pork?
Yes, sweet and sour pork freezes very well. To freeze:
- Allow sweet and sour pork to cool completely.
- Transfer to airtight containers, leaving 1⁄2 inch headspace.
- Label container with name and freeze date.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months at 0°F.
For best quality, consume frozen sweet and sour pork within 2 to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the air fryer.
Troubleshooting Reheating Sweet and Sour Pork in an Air Fryer
Follow these tips if you have any trouble reheating sweet and sour pork in the air fryer:
- If pork is not crispy enough – Brush with oil before reheating, preheat air fryer 10 minutes, and increase time by 2-3 minutes.
- If pork is overcooked – Reduce reheating time and check often. Cut pieces smaller next time.
- If pork is soggy – Use a paper towel to blot moisture before reheating. Preheat air fryer and reheat at higher temp.
- If sauce is too thick – Add a splash of water to the sauce before reheating.
- If pork is dry – Add a little oil or sauce and toss during reheating. Reduce time.
With a little trial and error, you’ll get the perfect air fryer sweet and sour pork reheating time and method dialed in.
Conclusion
Reheating sweet and sour pork in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy leftover takeout. The circulating hot air will revive the crispy batter coating while heating the sauce and filling in just minutes. Cut into smaller pieces, preheat the air fryer, and flip halfway for the best results. With proper storage sweet and sour pork will keep 3-4 days in the fridge or 2-3 months in the freezer. Follow these air fryer reheating tips and you can enjoy your favorite takeout for days without sacrificing texture or taste.