How to Cook Tri Tip in Ninja Air Fryer: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Tri tip is a popular and tasty cut of beef that is often grilled or roasted. However, you might be surprised to learn that you can also cook tri tip in an air fryer, such as the Ninja Air Fryer. Air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying, as it uses hot air to cook the food instead of oil. In this article, we will discuss a delicious and easy recipe for cooking tri tip in the Ninja Air Fryer.
Preparing the Tri Tip
Before you start cooking the tri tip, you need to make sure it is properly seasoned. Tri tip is a flavorful cut of meat, but it benefits from some added spices and herbs. You can create a simple marinade by combining olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the tri tip, making sure it is well-coated. Let the tri tip marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Next, preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the tri tip cooks evenly and gets a nice sear on the outside. Preheating is an important step in air frying, as it helps to achieve the desired texture and flavor.
Cooking the Tri Tip
Once the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook the tri tip. Place the marinated tri tip in the air fryer basket, making sure there is enough space around it for air circulation. Cook the tri tip for about 25-30 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be around 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure accuracy, it is best to use a meat thermometer.
Resting and Slicing the Tri Tip
After removing the tri tip from the air fryer, it is important to let it rest for about 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat. While the tri tip is resting, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to retain the heat.
Slicing the Tri Tip
Once the tri tip has rested, it’s time to slice it. Tri tip has a unique shape, with one end being thicker and the other end being thinner. To get the most tender slices, it is recommended to cut against the grain. The grain refers to the direction of the muscle fibers in the meat. Cutting against the grain helps to shorten these fibers, resulting in a more tender bite.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have cooked and sliced the tri tip, it’s time to serve it. Tri tip is a versatile cut of beef that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. You can serve it with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Another popular option is to make tri tip sandwiches or tacos using the sliced meat. The possibilities are endless!
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure the best results when cooking tri tip in the Ninja Air Fryer:
1. Use a meat thermometer: This will help you achieve the perfect level of doneness and prevent overcooking.
2. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Make sure there is enough space around the tri tip for air circulation. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
3. Let the tri tip rest: Allowing the tri tip to rest after cooking is crucial for a juicy and tender result. Resist the urge to slice it immediately.
4. Experiment with seasonings: While the simple marinade mentioned earlier is delicious, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, cooking tri tip in the Ninja Air Fryer is a delicious and easy way to enjoy this flavorful cut of beef. By properly seasoning the tri tip, preheating the air fryer, and cooking to the desired level of doneness, you can create a tender and juicy tri tip with a beautiful sear on the outside. Remember to let the tri tip rest before slicing for optimal flavor and texture. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!