Air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years as a convenient and healthy way of cooking. They are known for their ability to make crispy and delicious meals using minimal oil. One dish that might not immediately come to mind when thinking of air fryer recipes is steak. However, with the right technique, you can create a mouthwatering medium rare steak in an air fryer that rivals any restaurant’s. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to achieve a perfectly cooked medium rare steak using an air fryer.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before you embark on your culinary journey, it is essential to assemble the necessary ingredients. For cooking a mouthwatering medium rare steak, you will need:
1. A Quality Cut of Steak
Choosing a good-quality cut of steak is crucial for achieving a flavorful and tender end result. Popular choices for medium rare steak include ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon. Look for well-marbled steaks with a deep red color for the best taste and texture.
2. Seasonings and Marinades
To enhance the flavor of your steak, you’ll need some seasonings and marinades. Classic options include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You may also opt for marinades like Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a blend of herbs and spices according to your preference.
3. Olive Oil
Although the air fryer uses minimal oil, a light coating of olive oil on the steak helps to create a beautiful crust and locks in the juiciness.
Preparing the Steak
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, it’s time to prepare the steak before cooking.
1. Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Before cooking, allow the steak to sit at room temperature for around 30 minutes. This helps it cook more evenly.
2. Season the Steak
Generously season both sides of the steak with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add other seasonings or marinades at this point to further enhance the taste.
3. Let it Rest
After seasoning, let the steak rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
Cooking the Steak in the Air Fryer
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Preheating ensures that the steak will start cooking immediately and result in a perfect sear.
2. Place the Steak in the Air Fryer Basket
Carefully place the seasoned steak into the air fryer basket. Be mindful not to overcrowd the basket, as this can affect the cooking process and prevent the steak from browning evenly.
3. Cook Each Side
Cook the steak for approximately 4 minutes on each side for medium rare doneness. For a thicker cut, you may need to add a couple of minutes to the cooking time. Remember, the cooking time can vary depending on the thickness and the air fryer model, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the steak.
4. Test for Doneness
To ensure your steak has reached the desired level of doneness, use an instant-read meat thermometer. For medium rare, the internal temperature should read around 130°F (54°C). If it hasn’t reached the desired temperature, you can continue cooking for a minute or two.
5. Let it Rest, then Slice and Serve
Once the steak is cooked to perfection, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender steak. After resting, slice the steak against the grain and serve it immediately.
Final Thoughts
Cooking a mouthwatering medium rare steak in an air fryer may sound unconventional, but it can deliver excellent results. With the right cut of steak, seasoning, and proper cooking techniques, you can achieve a tender and juicy steak that will impress your family and friends. So, the next time you’re craving steak, give your air fryer a chance to bring out its full potential. Happy cooking!