Steak in Air Fryer UK:Cooking a perfectly juicy steak can seem daunting, but with the help of an air fryer, it becomes a straightforward and rewarding process. The air fryer ensures a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Here, we will guide you through 10 steps to achieve steak perfection using an air fryer, tailored for UK home cooks.
Steak in Air Fryer UK:Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
The first step to a perfect steak is selecting the right cut. In the UK, popular options include ribeye, sirloin, fillet, and rump. Ribeye is known for its marbling and flavour, while fillet is lean and tender. Sirloin offers a good balance of flavour and tenderness, and rump is a budget friendly choice that still delivers great taste. Choose a cut based on your preference for fat content and tenderness.
Steak in Air Fryer UK:Preparing the Steak
Before cooking, bring the steak to room temperature by taking it out of the fridge at least 30 minutes in advance. This ensures even cooking. Pat the steak dry with kitchen paper to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a nice sear.
Seasoning the Steak
Seasoning is crucial for enhancing the steak’s natural flavours. Generously season both sides with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. For additional flavour, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, or a steak seasoning blend. Some cooks also rub a bit of olive oil on the steak to help the seasonings adhere better.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures the steak starts cooking immediately, which helps in achieving a crispy crust. Each air fryer model may vary slightly, so refer to your manual if needed.
Steak in Air Fryer UK:Arranging the Steak in the Air Fryer
Place the seasoned steak in the air fryer basket. Ensure it’s in a single layer and not touching the sides of the basket for even cooking. If you’re cooking multiple steaks, cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Cooking the Steak
Cook the steak at 200°C (390°F). For a mediumrare steak, cook for 1012 minutes, flipping halfway through. Adjust the time based on your preferred doneness: reduce time for rare or increase for mediumwell to welldone. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: 50°C (120°F) for rare, 57°C (135°F) for mediumrare, 63°C (145°F) for medium, 68°C (155°F) for mediumwell, and 73°C (165°F) for welldone.
Steak in Air Fryer UK:Adding Flavour During Cooking
To infuse more flavour, add a knob of butter and a sprig of fresh herbs such as rosemary or thyme to the steak during the last few minutes of cooking. This step is optional but adds a delicious, aromatic touch to your steak.
Resting the Steak
Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest on a plate for at least 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Serving the Steak
Slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve with your favourite sides, such as air fryer chips, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a classic steakhouse experience, add a dollop of garlic butter or a drizzle of balsamic reduction.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the steak back in the air fryer at 150°C (300°F) for 57 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the steak tough and chewy.
Conclusion
Steak in Air Fryer UK:Cooking steak in an air fryer is a gamechanger for home cooks in the UK, offering a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a perfectly juicy steak. By following these 10 steps, you can master the art of air fryer steak, achieving a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior every time. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this method is sure to impress.
FAQs
1. Can I cook frozen steak in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen steak in the air fryer, but it will require a longer cooking time. Add an extra 57 minutes per side and check the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through.
2. What’s the best way to clean the air fryer after cooking steak?
Allow the air fryer to cool completely, then remove the basket and tray. Soak them in warm, soapy water and scrub gently with a nonabrasive sponge. For stubborn grease, use a bit of baking soda.
3. Can I use marinade for the steak before air frying?
Yes, marinating the steak can add additional flavour. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the fridge, then pat dry before air frying to ensure a crispy crust.
4. How do I know when the steak is done without a thermometer?
If you don’t have a meat thermometer, use the finger test for doneness. Press the centre of the steak: it should feel soft for rare, slightly firmer for mediumrare, and firm for welldone.
5. What sides pair well with air fryer steak?
Classic sides include air fryer chips, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a fresh salad. You can also serve it with sauces like chimichurri, peppercorn, or garlic butter for added flavour.
Also read: Air Fryer Sweetcorn: 10 Delicious Recipes to Try Today
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