Air-Fried Brisket: A Tasty, Quick Treat?

Cooking brisket in an air fryer is a convenient and efficient way to prepare this flavorful cut of meat. It is possible to achieve mouthwatering results in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods.

The air fryer's rapid air circulation cooks brisket quickly and evenly, resulting in a juicy and tender dish. It is also an excellent option for creating a crispy bark, a hallmark of exceptional brisket.

Preparing brisket in an air fryer involves selecting the right cut, seasoning it generously, and monitoring the cooking process to ensure even cooking and optimal doneness.

With its convenience, speed, and ability to produce tender and flavorful results, the air fryer has become a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts looking for a modern twist on classic barbecue flavors.

Choosing the right cut of brisket

Size and Thickness:

Opt for a smaller cut, such as a brisket flat, to ensure it fits comfortably within the limited space of your air fryer. These cuts promote even cooking and doneness due to their uniform thickness.

Cooking Time:

Smaller cuts also mean shorter cooking times, so you can enjoy your delicious brisket sooner rather than later.

Bark Formation:

The air fryer's high-speed air circulation promotes the development of a crispy bark, a hallmark of excellent brisket. The uniform shape of the brisket flat ensures consistent bark formation.

Marbling:

Look for good marbling throughout the flat. This refers to the distribution of fat within the meat, which helps keep the brisket moist and tender during cooking.

Texture:

Choose a brisket with a flexible texture, rather than a stiff one. This indicates the quality of the meat and can impact the overall cooking process and final texture.

Trimming:

Before cooking, trim any excess hard fat from the brisket. This will enhance the penetration of seasonings and promote the formation of a delicious bark. Aim to leave about 1/4 inch of fat for flavour and juiciness.

Portioning:

As a general guideline, allow for 1/3 lb of brisket per person when planning your meal.

Remember, the right cut of brisket will depend on the size and capacity of your air fryer, as well as your personal preferences. Always ensure that the brisket fits comfortably within your appliance for optimal cooking results.

Seasoning and marinating the meat

Basic Ingredients:

Begin with the classics: kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple blend forms the foundation of brisket seasoning, enhancing its natural flavours.

Flavor Enhancers:

Customise your seasoning blend with ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. These add depth and complexity to the flavour profile. Incorporate dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano for aromatic nuances that complement the smokiness of the brisket.

A Touch of Sweetness:

A bit of sweetness can balance the savoury elements. Brown sugar or a touch of honey can work wonders in your seasoning mix.

Spicy Kick:

For a touch of heat, consider cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika. These spices add a delightful kick to your brisket.

Marinating:

For even more flavour infusion, marinate your brisket with your chosen seasoning blend for a few hours or overnight before air frying. This allows the flavours to penetrate deeper into the meat.

Experimentation:

Remember, seasoning is a matter of personal taste. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find the one that suits your palate best. The air fryer's efficiency ensures that the flavours penetrate the meat beautifully.

Preheating the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is a crucial step in the process of cooking brisket. It ensures that your meat cooks evenly and consistently throughout, resulting in a tender and juicy brisket. Here are some detailed instructions to guide you through the preheating process:

Firstly, while your seasoned brisket is resting at room temperature, set your air fryer to the desired temperature. The ideal temperature for slow cooking brisket is around 275°F (135°C) to 320°F (160°C). This temperature range allows the brisket to cook slowly, breaking down the tough connective tissues, and ensures that the meat is cooked evenly.

Some recipes recommend cooking at a higher temperature of 350°F (175°C) or 375°F, but this may vary depending on the specific model of your air fryer and your desired level of doneness. Always refer to your air fryer's user manual for specific instructions.

While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare your brisket by trimming any excess fat, leaving a thin layer to keep the meat moist and flavourful. Then, season both sides of the brisket generously with salt and pepper, as well as any other desired spices and herbs. You can also try marinating the brisket with the seasoning blend for a few hours or overnight to enhance the flavour even more.

Once the air fryer has preheated to the desired temperature, carefully place your seasoned brisket into the air fryer basket, ensuring that it is not overcrowded and allowing for proper air circulation. Make sure the brisket is placed fat-side up and that it is not touching the sides of the basket.

Now, you are ready to start cooking your brisket! Depending on the weight and thickness of your brisket, the cooking time will vary. For example, a 2-pound brisket will take around 1 hour and 40 minutes at 320°F. Remember to monitor the brisket's progress and flip it as needed to ensure even cooking.

In conclusion, preheating your air fryer is a critical step in achieving the perfect brisket. By following these instructions, you'll be well on your way to cooking tender and juicy brisket that will impress your family and friends.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for an air fryer brisket will depend on the size of the brisket, the power of the air fryer, and how well done you want the meat.

For a 2.5-3 pound brisket, you should expect to cook it for around 2.5-3 hours at 350°F-360°F. This will give you a medium-rare to medium finish. If you would like your brisket to be well done, you will need to increase the cooking time.

It is important to note that the brisket will continue to cook for a further 10 degrees after it has been removed from the heat source, so it is recommended to remove the brisket from the air fryer when it reaches an internal temperature of 180°F-185°F if you want it to be at the ideal temperature of 195°F.

If you are cooking a smaller piece of meat, such as steak bites, you can expect a much shorter cooking time of under 10 minutes.

Resting and serving the brisket

Resting and serving your brisket is the final step in this juicy and tender air fryer recipe. Once your brisket has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This is an important step as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender brisket.

While the brisket is resting, the internal temperature will continue to rise. Remember to factor this in when checking the temperature of your brisket. The ideal temperature for a tender brisket is around 195°F, but you'll want to remove it from the heat when it reaches 180-185°F.

After the brisket has rested, it's time to slice and serve. Identify the direction of the muscle fibres, known as the grain, and slice perpendicular to this. This ensures that each bite is tender and easy to chew. Aim for thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick, to get the most tender meat and to savour the rich flavours.

You can serve the brisket as-is or with a drizzle of sauce. It pairs well with classic sides like coleslaw, pickles, grilled vegetables, or potatoes. You can also get creative and experiment with different flavours and ingredients to create a dish that suits your palate.

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within a few days. You can also freeze the leftovers for 2 to 3 months. Reheat the brisket in the air fryer, oven, or microwave, ensuring the internal temperature reaches at least 140°F.

Frequently asked questions