Do you crave perfectly cooked flank steak, but don’t have access to a grill? Fear not, because your air fryer is here to save the day! Cooking steak in an air fryer may sound unconventional, but it’s a quick and easy method that yields succulent and tender results. In this blog, we’ll provide you with the ultimate guide to cooking the perfect flank steak in your air fryer. From preparing the meat to seasoning and cooking it to perfection, we’ve got you covered.
So sit tight and get ready to impress your taste buds with the best air fryer flank steak you’ve ever had!
Preparation
Are you looking for the perfect medium rare flank steak recipe? Using an air fryer to cook your steak is an excellent choice. Preparing your steak correctly before cooking is essential to achieve the best result. First, let the steak sit at room temperature for an hour before cooking.
This ensures that the meat cooks evenly throughout. Seasoning the steak with your desired spices is an excellent way to enhance the flavor. Be careful not to add too much salt, as the air fryer will intensify the salt content.
Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, then spray a light coat of oil onto the cooking basket. Place the seasoned flank steak on the basket and cook according to the recipe’s instructions. With the right seasoning and preparation, your air fryer flank steak will turn out juicy and flavorful, cooked to perfection and served medium rare.
Seasoning your steak
Seasoning your steak is an essential step in creating a flavorful and juicy meal. The key to a perfectly seasoned steak is to start with quality meat. Look for a fresh and well-marbled cut of meat to enhance the flavor.
Before seasoning, let your steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow it to cook evenly. Next, generously season both sides of the steak with salt and pepper. Rub the seasoning in gently to ensure it penetrates the meat.
You can also try adding garlic and herbs to enhance the flavor. Choose seasonings that will complement the cut of meat you are using. For example, rosemary and thyme pair well with a ribeye, while garlic and parsley work well with a filet mignon.
Once seasoned, let your steak sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle in. By following these simple steps, you can create a perfectly seasoned steak that will impress your family and friends.
Preheating the air fryer
Preheating the air fryer is an essential step in achieving perfectly cooked meals every time. To prepare your air fryer for use, start by taking it out of storage and placing it on a stable surface. Next, ensure that the basket is clean and free from any leftover grease or food debris.
Once this is done, plug in the appliance and set the temperature to the desired level. Allow the air fryer to preheat for approximately three minutes before adding in your food. This will ensure that the hot air is circulated evenly throughout the cooking chamber, resulting in crisp, golden-brown meals without any of the greasiness associated with traditional deep-frying methods.
Taking a few minutes to preheat your air fryer will not only save you time in the long run, but it will also guarantee consistently delicious and healthy meals every time.
Cooking the Flank Steak
If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to cook a flank steak, the air fryer might just be your new best friend! With this handy kitchen tool, you can achieve a perfectly cooked medium rare flank steak in no time at all. Simply season your steak with your favorite spices, then place it in the air fryer set at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-12 minutes. It’s important to let your steak rest for a few minutes before slicing to ensure maximum juiciness.
The result is a tender and flavorful cut of meat that is perfect for any occasion. Plus, using an air fryer means you don’t have to worry about heating up your whole kitchen with a hot oven, making it a great option for summertime cooking. So go ahead and give this air fryer flank steak recipe a try – your taste buds (and your stomach) will thank you!
Placing the steak in the air fryer
Now that you’ve properly seasoned your flank steak, it’s time to cook it in the air fryer. First, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, place the steak in the air fryer basket and make sure it’s sitting evenly.
Don’t overcrowd the basket, as you want the air to circulate around the steak to ensure even cooking. Cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steak, but a good rule of thumb is 10 minutes for every inch. Don’t forget to flip the steak halfway through cooking for even browning.
Once it’s cooked to your desired doneness, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You’ll be amazed at how juicy and flavorful your flank steak turns out with this air fryer method.
Determining the cooking time
When it comes to cooking flank steak, determining the cooking time is crucial. Flank steak is a lean cut of meat, which means it can quickly become tough and chewy if it’s overcooked. Therefore, it’s important to keep an eye on the steak while it’s cooking and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
For medium-rare steak, cook the flank steak for around 6 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F. However, if you prefer your steak to be cooked differently, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly. Just remember to let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing it.
By mastering the art of determining the cooking time for flank steak, you’ll be able to prepare a delicious and tender meal for your friends or family.
Flipping the steak halfway through
When it comes to cooking the perfect flank steak, it’s important to flip it halfway through cooking. This simple technique ensures that your steak is cooked evenly on both sides and that it develops a flavorful crust. As you heat up your skillet or grill, make sure it’s nice and hot before you add your steak.
Then, let it sear for a few minutes on one side before flipping it over. The key is to resist the urge to flip it too often, as this can prevent a good sear from developing. Instead, flip it just once when the time is right and let it cook until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
With a little practice, you can flip your flank steak with ease and enjoy a delicious, perfectly cooked steak every time.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Flank Steak Medium Rare: Preparing a delicious, juicy, and tender flank steak in an air fryer is simple and quick. To achieve a perfectly cooked medium-rare steak, ensure that the meat’s thickness is consistent. Before air frying, season the steak generously with salt and pepper and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Preheat the air fryer for five minutes to ensure even cooking. Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray before placing the steak into the basket. Air fry for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the steak halfway through the cooking process, until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
Once the steak has reached the desired level of doneness, allow it to rest for five minutes. Then, slice the cooked steak thinly against the grain. You can serve your air fryer flank steak medium rare with your favorite veggies, asparagus, carrots, or sauteed mushrooms, and enjoy a delicious meal with your loved ones.
The air fryer locks in the juices, delivers a crusty exterior, and a juicy interior, making every bite of this delicious meal unforgettable.
Allowing the steak to rest
When it comes to cooking the perfect steak, allowing it to rest is an essential step that should not be skipped. This means taking the steak off the grill or pan and letting it sit for a few minutes before slicing into it. This allows the juices within the steak to redistribute and settle, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
But how long should you let your steak rest? It ultimately depends on the thickness of the cut – generally, a thicker steak should rest for around 5-10 minutes while a thinner cut may only need 2-3 minutes. During this time, you can prepare any sides, pour a glass of wine, or simply enjoy the tantalizing aroma. Once the steak has had time to rest, it’s ready to be sliced and served, perhaps with a side of roasted veggies or a classic baked potato.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some sea salt or freshly cracked black pepper for that extra flavor punch. Trust us – allowing your steak to rest properly is worth the wait!
Serving a delicious medium-rare steak
Serving Suggestions So, you’ve cooked a delicious medium-rare steak, but now what? No worries, we’ve got some great serving suggestions to take your meal to the next level. The first thing to consider is the side dishes. A classic steakhouse pairing is a baked potato with all the fixings.
You could also opt for some grilled veggies like asparagus or zucchini, or a simple arugula salad for a lighter option. Another important component is the sauce. While a well-seasoned steak can stand on its own, adding a flavorful sauce can really elevate the dish.
A good herb butter or chimichurri sauce are popular choices and can easily be made at home. And finally, consider the presentation. A simple garnish like a sprig of rosemary or a few cherry tomatoes can make all the difference.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and make your plate look as delicious as it tastes. With these serving suggestions, your medium-rare steak will be the star of the show.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious flank steak, look no further than your air fryer. Not only is it a healthier alternative to frying, but it also helps to lock in the flavors and juices of the meat. For a perfect medium rare steak, simply season your flank steak with your favorite spices and air fry for around 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Once done, let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. The result is a juicy, tender steak with a beautiful seared crust. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this air fryer flank steak recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using an air fryer for cooking flank steak to a perfect medium rare is the ultimate hack for the modern kitchen. Not only does it provide a healthier cooking option, but the precise temperature control ensures a perfectly cooked steak every time. So, step aside grill masters, the air fryer is here to steak the spotlight in all its medium rare glory!”
FAQs
How long should I air fry flank steak for medium rare?
For a 1-inch thick flank steak, air fry for 8-10 minutes at 400°F for medium rare.
Should I marinate my flank steak before air frying?
It’s not necessary, but a marinade can add flavor and tenderness to your flank steak. Marinate for at least 30 minutes before air frying.
Can I season my flank steak before air frying?
Yes, you can season your flank steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and any other desired seasonings before air frying.
How do I know if my flank steak is cooked to medium rare?
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak. For medium rare, it should read 135°F. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.