Meater In The Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a popular alternative to deep fryers. They are miniature convection ovens that cook food by circulating hot air with an internal fan. They can be used to cook a variety of meats, including beef, chicken, pork, and fish. When cooking meat in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that it is fully defrosted, seasoned, and monitored to avoid undercooking or overcooking. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure that the meat is cooked to the desired temperature. Additionally, adding a small amount of oil to the meat can help create a crispy, golden-brown exterior.

Cooking temperatures and timings for different meats

Yes, you can cook meat in an air fryer! Here is a guide to cooking temperatures and timings for different meats:

Beef

For a 1.25kg beef roasting joint, roast at 220ºc/425ºf for 15 minutes with oil, salt, and pepper. Then, turn the temperature down to 100ºc/210ºf and cook for a further 45 minutes for a rare joint. For a 1-inch-thick steak, cook for around 12 minutes for medium doneness. For a beef joint with a crispy crust, you can sear it in a frying pan before placing it in the air fryer.

Lamb

For lamb loin chops, season with salt and pepper and sear in a hot frying pan until the fat is golden. Then, air fry for 8-10 minutes at 180ºc/350ºf.

Pork

For pork chops, preheat the air fryer to 375ºF or 400ºF. Lightly oil and season the meat, then place it in the air fryer basket, leaving 1 inch between portions. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway. For pork belly, season with salt and leave uncovered in the fridge overnight. The next day, score the skin and heat the air fryer to 220ºc/425ºf. Toast some spices in a frying pan and grind them into a powder, then rub this all over the pork. Cook skin-side up for 30 minutes, then turn the heat down to 160ºc/325ºf and cook for around 1 hour until tender.

Chicken

For a whole chicken, push a flavoured butter of garlic, lemon, thyme, and rosemary under the skin and cook for 45-50 minutes at 190ºc/375ºf. For chicken thighs, cook for around 20 minutes at 200ºc/400ºf. For chicken breast, cook at a high temperature of 390F-400F.

Turkey

For a turkey crown, dry brine with salt, brown sugar, and dried herbs for at least a day before cooking. Then, push butter under the skin and cook for 30 minutes at 170ºc/340ºf. Remove the greaseproof paper and foil and cook for another 30-40 minutes. Leave to rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

How to stop meat from sticking to the air fryer

Yes, you can cook meat in an air fryer. It is a safe and convenient way to prepare meat. However, to avoid the dreaded situation of meat sticking to the air fryer, here are some tips to follow:

Use a small amount of oil

A light coating of oil on the meat can help prevent sticking. It will also help the seasoning adhere to the meat and promote browning, resulting in a crispier texture. Use a high smoke-point oil such as refined avocado oil, almond oil, corn oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, peanut oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, or sunflower oil.

Spray the basket with vegetable oil spray

If you are cooking foods that are prone to sticking, such as fried chicken or fish sticks, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with vegetable oil spray for added protection.

Make a foil sling

For the ultimate barrier against sticking, place a sheet of aluminum foil in the basket, pressing it up and into the sides. This not only prevents sticking but also makes it easier to remove foods like fish fillets or meatloaves.

Defrost and pat dry the meat

Before adding oil and seasoning, make sure the meat is fully defrosted and patted dry with a paper towel. This will help the oil and seasoning adhere better and promote even cooking.

Leave space between meat portions

When placing the meat in the air fryer, leave about one inch of space between each portion. This ensures proper airflow and allows the meat to cook thoroughly and evenly. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Flip the meat halfway through

For most types of meat, it is important to flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. However, for delicate foods like fish fillets, it is best to avoid flipping as they can fall apart easily.

The best cuts of meat for the air fryer

Yes, you can cook meat in an air fryer. In fact, there are several options for the best cuts of meat for the air fryer.

Beef works well in the air fryer, and tender cuts are recommended. These include Top Sirloin, KC Strip, Ribeye, Tenderloin, and Tri-Tip. Ground beef is also a good option for the air fryer. When cooking ground beef, stick to meat that is no leaner than 90% because the fat will drain away during cooking, and the beef will dry out.

When it comes to steak, the best cuts for the air fryer include:

• Cube Steak
• Flank Steak
• Filet Mignon
• New York Strip
• Hanger Steak
• Flat Iron Steak
• Ribeye
• Porterhouse
• Sirloin

Other meats that are suitable for the air fryer include:

• Chicken breasts
• Chicken wings
• Pork chops
• Turkey breasts
• Bacon
• Burgers
• Lamb chops
• Fish

How to cook ground beef in the air fryer

Yes, you can cook meat in an air fryer. It is a safe and convenient way to cook a variety of meats, including ground beef. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook ground beef in an air fryer:

Firstly, ensure your ground beef is fully defrosted. It is recommended to use ground beef that is no leaner than 90% as the fat will drain away during the cooking process, and leaner beef may result in drier meat.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F or 400°F. If your air fryer does not have a preheat setting, set the temperature to 400°F and let it run for 5 minutes. Place up to 1 and 1/2 pounds of ground beef into the air fryer basket. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat and stir through some seasoning. It is recommended to season with salt and pepper, but you can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh or dried herbs.

Cook the ground beef for 5 minutes at 400°F. After 5 minutes, remove the basket and stir the beef, breaking it up further if desired. Then, return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, until the beef is cooked through and no longer pink.

Once the beef is cooked, remove the basket and you will see that the fat and liquid have drained away. Crumble the beef to your desired consistency and serve immediately, or use in your favourite ground beef recipe.

Cooking ground beef in an air fryer is a hands-free, convenient, and quick method that also makes for an easier clean-up. However, it is important to note that due to the fat draining away, the beef may be drier than if cooked on a stovetop.

How to monitor the temperature of meat in the air fryer

Yes, you can cook meat in an air fryer. It is safe to do so as long as the meat is fully defrosted, seasoned, and monitored.

To monitor the temperature of meat in an air fryer, you can use a wireless thermometer. This will help you reach the exact desired temperature and ensure even and thorough cooking. It is a safe way to know when your meat is ready, allowing you to keep a check on the internal temperature of the meat throughout the cooking process.

• Read the manufacturer's instructions for your specific thermometer, as they can vary slightly between brands.
• Preheat your air fryer and season your meat.
• Insert the probe into the center of the meat, ensuring it goes into the thickest part for accurate readings.
• Input all the required information into the thermometer's mobile application or digital receiver, such as the meat type, desired temperature, and cooking time.
• Place the meat in the air fryer and start the device.
• Monitor the cooking progress on the display device. There is no need to open the air fryer and release the heat.
• Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the meat from the air fryer and allow it to rest before serving.

Using a wireless thermometer is an effective way to ensure your meat is cooked to your desired level of doneness while maintaining its juiciness and tenderness.

It is important to note that different types of meat have different recommended internal temperatures. For example, steak is typically cooked to a lower temperature than chicken. Always refer to a reliable source for specific temperature recommendations for the type of meat you are cooking.

Frequently asked questions