Air-Fried Brisket: A Tasty, Quick Cooking Method?

Brisket is a delicious dish that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including in an air fryer. While some people prefer to cook brisket slowly using methods like smoking or slow cooking, air frying has become an increasingly popular option due to its convenience and ability to produce a crispy crust. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of cooking brisket in an air fryer, including preparation, cooking times, and serving suggestions. We will also discuss the benefits of air frying brisket and provide tips for achieving the best results. So, can you cook brisket in an air fryer? Absolutely!

Choosing the right cut of brisket

First and foremost, opt for a smaller cut that will fit comfortably in your air fryer. The limited space in an air fryer requires a different approach from traditional smokers, which can accommodate large, whole briskets. A brisket flat is a popular choice for air frying due to its relatively even thickness, which promotes uniform cooking and doneness. If you prefer a full packer brisket, ensure your air fryer is large enough to accommodate it without overcrowding.

Thickness and size consistency are crucial for even cooking. Look for a brisket with a consistent thickness throughout, as this will ensure that all parts of the meat cook evenly. A uniform shape is especially important for achieving consistent bark development.

When it comes to fat content, aim for a good marbling of fat throughout the meat. While some fat is desirable for flavour and juiciness, too much can hinder the penetration of seasonings and the formation of a delicious bark. As a guideline, aim for about a quarter of an inch of fat.

Finally, consider the weight of the brisket. A 3-4 pound brisket is a good size for most air fryers, but adjust this range based on the size of your specific appliance. Remember to choose a brisket that will sit flat in your air fryer without bunching up, ensuring even cooking.

By selecting the right cut of brisket and following proper preparation techniques, you'll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering air fryer brisket that's tender, juicy, and full of flavour.

Trimming and seasoning the brisket

Trimming the brisket is an essential step in the cooking process. It ensures even cooking and affects how the meat is sliced and served. The goal is to trim off any excess fat, leaving about a quarter of an inch remaining. This helps the seasoning penetrate the meat and promotes the formation of a delicious bark.

To begin trimming, you will need a sharp knife, preferably about 7-8 inches long, and a large wooden cutting board to accommodate the brisket. Place the brisket fat cap down and start by lightly trimming the fat and silverskin from the underside. You can choose to skip this step if you prefer, but it helps to even out the brisket and prepare it for a more uniform smoke.

Next, focus on the top side of the brisket. The long, thin, rectangular side is the flat, and the knobby, muscular end is the point. Trim any overhangs or uneven pieces on the flat, ensuring it is relatively consistent in thickness. This will prevent dry spots and burned edges during cooking.

Once you have finished trimming, it is time to season the brisket generously. A basic seasoning blend consists of equal parts salt and pepper, but you can also add other spices like onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground coriander, or cayenne pepper for extra flavour. Mix your chosen seasonings in a small bowl, and then use your hands to massage the blend into the meat, ensuring it adheres well.

For an extra flavour boost, consider marinating the seasoned brisket for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the seasonings to penetrate deeper into the meat. Before cooking, let the brisket rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure more even cooking.

Preheating the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an essential step in the process of cooking brisket. It ensures that your meat cooks evenly, helping you achieve that desirable crispy crust. The ideal temperature for preheating your air fryer is between 300°F and 375°F (150°C) to (190°C).

The precise temperature you choose within this range will depend on the desired level of doneness and the thickness of your brisket. A temperature of 300°F (150°C) is suitable for a slower cook, allowing the connective tissues in the meat to break down without drying it out. This results in tender, juicy slices of brisket.

If you prefer a juicier brisket, you can add beef broth or stock to the air fryer basket before cooking. The steam created will help maintain moisture during the cooking process. For optimal tenderness, aim for an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) to 195°F (88°C to 90°C).

It is important to note that the size and thickness of your brisket will impact the cooking time. As a general rule of thumb, plan for approximately 10-12 minutes per pound of brisket. For thicker cuts, you may need to cook for 45-60 minutes, and remember to flip your brisket halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Before placing your brisket in the air fryer, ensure it is properly prepared. Start by trimming any excess fat, leaving about 1/4 inch for flavour and moisture. Then, generously apply your chosen seasonings, massaging them into the meat to ensure they adhere well. For enhanced flavour, let the seasoned brisket rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the preheated air fryer.

Cooking the brisket

The first step in cooking brisket in an air fryer is to choose the right cut of meat. Air fryers have limited space, so opt for a smaller cut such as a brisket flat, which is more manageable in size and thickness. This ensures even cooking within the confines of the air fryer basket.

Next, prepare the brisket by trimming any excess fat, leaving about a quarter of an inch. This ensures that the seasoning can penetrate the meat effectively. Massage your chosen blend of seasonings generously into the meat, ensuring all sides are covered. For an extra flavour boost, consider marinating the brisket overnight in the refrigerator. Before air frying, let the brisket rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually around 275°F (135°C) for low and slow cooking. You can also preheat to 350°F or 375°F, depending on your preference. Place the seasoned brisket into the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. Cook the brisket for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness.

After the initial cooking time, remove the brisket from the air fryer and wrap it in foil, fat cap side up. Pour in some broth and seal the foil to prevent leakage. Place the wrapped brisket back into the air fryer and continue cooking at a lower temperature of around 300°F for another 2 hours or until the thickest part of the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 185°F to 205°F.

Finally, remove the brisket from the air fryer and let it rest for about 10 to 20 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy. You can serve the brisket with the broth created during the cooking process.

With these steps, you can achieve a succulent and flavourful brisket using your air fryer. Remember that practice makes perfect, so don't be discouraged if your first attempt doesn't turn out exactly as expected. Adjust your techniques, cooking times, and seasoning to suit your taste preferences.

Resting and serving the brisket

Resting the brisket is an important step in the cooking process. It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy, tender final product. Depending on the source, you should let the brisket rest for 10 to 30 minutes. This is also a good time to preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, usually around 275°F (135°C) for low and slow cooking.

Once the brisket has rested, carefully place it into the air fryer basket, ensuring it's not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. Throughout the cooking process, monitor the brisket's progress and flip it as needed to ensure even cooking and bark formation.

When the air fryer beeps, indicating that the brisket is cooked, it's time to remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a chopping board for resting and slicing. It's important to let the brisket rest for another 5 to 10 minutes before slicing it. This final resting period allows the meat to cool slightly and makes it easier to handle.

After the brisket has rested and you've sliced it, it's now ready to be served. Brisket cooked in an air fryer can be served in a variety of ways. You can pair it with your favorite barbecue sauce or dipping sauce, or keep it dry and let people add their own sauces. It can be served as a main course with sides like baked potatoes or French fries, or used in sandwiches for a warm, juicy beef sandwich. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and reheated in the air fryer, microwave, or oven.

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