The air fryer has become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, and for good reason. It allows you to cook food quickly and easily, while also reducing the amount of oil needed for frying. One type of meat that you can cook in an air fryer is pork shoulder steak. This flavorful cut of meat is tender and juicy when cooked properly, and using an air fryer is a quick and delicious method to achieve just that. In this article, we will explore how long to cook pork shoulder steak in an air fryer and provide you with some tips to ensure a perfectly cooked meal.
Preparing the Pork Shoulder Steak
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare the pork shoulder steak properly. Start by selecting a high-quality piece of meat from your local butcher or grocery store. Look for a steak with good marbling, as this will enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
Next, season the pork shoulder steak to your liking. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or you can get creative and use a marinade or rub. A classic combination is garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Massage the seasoning into the meat and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Cooking the Pork Shoulder Steak in the Air Fryer
Once the pork shoulder steak is properly seasoned, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the air fryer is at the right temperature to cook the meat evenly.
1. Cooking Time
The cooking time for pork shoulder steak will vary depending on the thickness of the meat. As a general rule of thumb, cook the steak for about 15-20 minutes per inch of thickness. However, always use a meat thermometer to determine the doneness of the meat, as this is the most accurate way to ensure that your steak is cooked to perfection.
2. Turning and Basting
During the cooking process, it’s essential to turn the pork shoulder steak once or twice to ensure even cooking. Use a pair of tongs to flip the steak gently. Additionally, basting the steak with some melted butter or olive oil can help keep it moist and add extra flavor. Basting should be done when you turn the steak to ensure all sides get coated.
3. Resting the Steak
Once the pork shoulder steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Tips for a Perfectly Cooked Pork Shoulder Steak
1. Thickness Matters
As mentioned earlier, the cooking time of pork shoulder steak in an air fryer depends on its thickness. Try to select steaks that are similar in thickness to ensure even cooking. If you have thick and thin steaks, cook them separately to prevent overcooking or undercooking.
2. Doneness Temperature
To achieve the perfect level of doneness, it’s crucial to reach the right internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C). For medium, the internal temperature should be about 160°F (71°C). Keep in mind that the meat will continue to cook slightly while it rests, so you can remove it from the air fryer just before reaching the desired temperature.
3. Letting the Seasonings Penetrate
For maximum flavor, let the seasonings penetrate the pork shoulder steak for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the flavors to infuse into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and delicious meal.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket with too many steaks at once. The hot air needs space to circulate evenly around each piece of meat for proper cooking. Cook the steaks in batches if necessary, ensuring enough space between them.
Experimenting with Flavors and Sides
Now that you know how long to cook pork shoulder steak in an air fryer, you can get creative with flavors and pairings. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings, marinades, and rubs to create a variety of tasty meals. Additionally, consider serving your pork shoulder steak with delicious sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad to complete the meal.
In conclusion, cooking pork shoulder steak in an air fryer is a quick and delicious method that yields tender and flavorful results. By following the recommended cooking times and using a meat thermometer to determine the doneness, you can enjoy a perfectly cooked pork shoulder steak every time. So fire up your air fryer, prepare your steak with your favorite seasonings, and get ready to savor a mouthwatering meal in no time!