Air fryers have become increasingly popular among culinary enthusiasts in the UK, and it’s no wonder why. These versatile kitchen appliances offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, using little to no oil while still delivering crispy and delicious results. While they are commonly used to prepare fries, chicken wings, and other fried foods, many people may be surprised to learn that you can also cook a mouthwatering steak in an air fryer. In this quick guide, we will walk you through the process of cooking the perfect steak in an air fryer, providing you with all the tips and tricks you need to satisfy your taste buds.
Gather the Necessary Ingredients and Tools
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure you have everything you need. For this air fryer steak recipe, you’ll need the following:
– High-quality steak:
Choose your favorite cut, such as ribeye, sirloin, or fillet. It’s important to select a well-marbled steak for maximum flavor and tenderness.
– Seasonings:
Gather your preferred spices and herbs to enhance the taste of the steak. Some popular options include salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dried thyme.
– Olive oil:
Although air fryers require little oil, you’ll want to brush a small amount of olive oil on both sides of the steak to promote browning and prevent sticking.
– Meat thermometer:
To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection, invest in a reliable meat thermometer. This will help you achieve your desired level of doneness, whether it be rare, medium-rare, medium, or well-done.
– Tongs:
You’ll need tongs to flip the steak and handle it safely while it’s hot.
– Air fryer:
Of course, you’ll need an air fryer to carry out this cooking method. Ensure it’s clean and in proper working condition.
Preparation and Seasoning
Once you have all the necessary ingredients and tools, it’s time to prepare and season your steak. Begin by preheating your air fryer to around 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the steak cooks evenly and achieves a beautiful sear.
While the air fryer is preheating, take your steak out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Allowing the steak to reach room temperature before cooking ensures more even cooking throughout the meat.
Now, it’s time to season the steak. Start by brushing a small amount of olive oil on both sides of the steak. This will help the seasonings adhere and give the steak a slightly crispy exterior. After oiling the steak, generously season both sides with your preferred spices and herbs. Don’t be shy with the seasonings; they are the key to a delicious and well-flavored steak.
Cooking the Steak in an Air Fryer
Once the air fryer is preheated and the steak is properly seasoned, it’s time to cook! Open the air fryer basket and place the steak in a single layer. Be mindful not to overcrowd the basket, as this can prevent proper airflow and result in uneven cooking.
Step 1:
Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) and the cooking time based on the thickness and desired level of doneness. As a general guideline, cook a 1-inch thick steak for about 9-12 minutes for medium-rare, 12-15 minutes for medium, and 15-18 minutes for well-done. These cooking times are approximate and may vary based on the air fryer model and individual preferences.
Step 2:
Carefully close the air fryer basket and let the steak cook, undisturbed, for the first half of the cooking time. This allows one side of the steak to sear and develop a flavorful crust.
Step 3:
Once the first half of the cooking time has elapsed, open the air fryer basket and flip the steak using tongs. Be cautious while handling the hot steak and remember to close the basket promptly to maintain the cooking temperature.
Step 4:
Close the air fryer basket and allow the steak to finish cooking for the remaining time. This will ensure that both sides of the steak are evenly cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Checking the Doneness and Resting the Steak
To ensure your steak is cooked to perfection, it’s essential to check its internal temperature using a meat thermometer. Keep in mind that the temperatures listed below represent the internal temperature the meat should reach after resting. For the desired doneness, aim for the following ranges:
– Rare:
120°F (49°C) – Red and cool center
– Medium-rare:
130°F (54°C) – Red and warm center
– Medium:
140°F (60°C) – Pink and firm center with a hint of red
– Well-done:
160°F (71°C) – No pink at the center, fully cooked
Once the steak has reached your preferred internal temperature, it’s crucial to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more tender steak. During the resting period, loosely cover the cooked steak with foil to help retain its warmth.
Serving and Enjoying Your Air Fryer Steak
After giving your steak a well-deserved rest, it’s time to slice it and savor the flavors you’ve created. Use a sharp knife to cut the steak across the grain into thin slices. This ensures tenderness and optimal eating experience.
You can serve your air fryer steak alongside your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad. Additionally, you may want to add a dollop of herbed butter or a drizzle of chimichurri sauce to further enhance the taste.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of cooking steak in an air fryer, feel free to experiment with different seasonings, cuts, and cooking times to cater to your personal preferences. Whether you’re a novice chef or an experienced foodie, this quick guide provides you with the necessary steps and expert tips to cook a delicious steak that will leave your taste buds wanting more.