Air-Frying Corned Beef: Quick, Easy, And Delicious?

Corned beef is a beloved dish in many cuisines, and cooking it in an air fryer is a great way to achieve a juicy and tender texture in a short amount of time. While corned beef is traditionally cooked by boiling, baking, or slow cooking, using an air fryer simplifies the process and results in a crisp exterior and moist interior. This method is also healthier, as it requires less oil, and more time-efficient, making it a convenient option for home cooks. Preparing corned beef in an air fryer involves a few key steps, such as preheating the air fryer, rinsing and seasoning the meat, and cooking it for the appropriate duration.

Corned beef preparation

Corned beef is a type of beef brisket that is cured in a brine solution, usually containing salt, sugar, and various spices. The term "corned" comes from the large grains of salt used to preserve the meat. Corned beef is a versatile dish that can be prepared in various ways, including boiling, baking, and slow cooking.

Step 1: Rinse and Dry the Corned Beef:

Start by rinsing the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine and sodium. Place the corned beef in a pot of water and rinse it two or three times. This step helps balance the flavour by reducing the saltiness of the meat. After rinsing, pat the corned beef dry with paper towels to ensure an even sear.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasonings:

In a small bowl, mix together the seasonings for the corned beef. The seasonings can vary depending on your preference. Some common ingredients include mustard, honey or brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and pickling spices. You can also use the seasoning packet that sometimes comes with the corned beef or create your own blend of spices.

Step 3: Apply Seasonings to the Corned Beef:

Place the corned beef on a sheet of aluminium foil. Brush or sprinkle the seasonings onto the corned beef, covering all sides evenly. You can also rub olive oil on the meat before applying the seasonings to enhance the flavour and promote a crisp crust.

Step 4: Wrap and Place in Air Fryer:

Tightly wrap the seasoned corned beef in the foil. Preheat your air fryer to 350-360 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius). Place the wrapped corned beef in the air fryer basket.

Step 5: Initial Cooking:

Cook the corned beef for about 1 hour at the preheated temperature. After the first hour, carefully open the foil packet and baste the corned beef with any remaining paste or glaze.

Step 6: Continue Cooking:

Wrap the corned beef again and continue cooking for an additional 40 minutes. For a crispier top, you can choose to leave the top of the corned beef uncovered during this step.

Step 7: Final Touches:

To achieve a nice crust or caramelization on top, increase the air fryer temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes. The total cooking time can vary depending on your desired level of doneness, with longer cooking times resulting in more tender meat.

Step 8: Rest and Slice:

Once the corned beef is cooked to your desired level, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat is tender and juicy. When slicing, use a sharp knife and cut against the grain in a slow and steady see-sawing motion.

Storage and Leftovers:

Any leftover corned beef should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within three to four days. Leftovers can be used in sandwiches, wraps, or a hearty corned beef hash for breakfast.

Air fryer settings

Air fryers are a great way to cook corned beef as they are time-efficient, healthier, and convenient. They can cook corned beef faster than conventional methods and use significantly less oil while achieving a crispy texture. Air fryers are also easier to clean than pots and slow cookers.

• Rinse the corned beef under cold running water to remove excess salty brine and seasonings, especially if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Pat the corned beef dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for creating an crispy crust when cooking.
• Season the corned beef with your preferred seasonings. You can use the seasoning packet that comes with the corned beef or add your own blend of spices like black peppercorns, garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
• Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3-10 minutes. Not all air fryers require preheating, but it is recommended for this recipe.
• Place the seasoned corned beef in the air fryer basket, fat side up. This allows the fat to render down over the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.
• Set the timer according to the size of the brisket and your desired cooking level. As a general rule of thumb, cook for about 15 minutes per pound. For a medium level of doneness, the internal temperature should reach a minimum of 145°F (63°C). For optimal tenderness, you may cook it longer, aiming for around 190°F (88°C) to break down the connective tissue.
• If your air fryer has a rotisserie function, use it to ensure even cooking.
• Flip the corned beef halfway through cooking for even browning.
• To retain moisture, pour low-sodium beef broth into the bottom of the air fryer basket to create steam and keep the meat juicy and tender.
• After removing the corned beef from the air fryer, let it rest for 10-20 minutes covered in aluminum foil. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moister and more flavorful dish.
• Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat.

Cooking time

The cooking time for corned beef in an air fryer depends on the size of the brisket and the cooking temperature. A typical corned beef brisket weighs between 3 and 4.4 pounds.

Before cooking, the corned beef should be rinsed under cold water to remove excess brine and sodium, then patted dry with paper towels. It should then be coated in a mixture of mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar, and wrapped in foil.

The corned beef should then be placed in the air fryer basket and cooked for 1 hour at 350°F (180°C) or 360°F (depending on the source). After this, the foil should be opened, and the brisket basted with any remaining paste. It should then be wrapped again and cooked for a further 40 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches a minimum of 145°F (63°C). This can be checked with a meat thermometer.

For a crisp top, the foil should be removed, and the brisket cooked for a final 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C). In total, the cooking time is 1 hour and 45 minutes.

It is important to let the corned beef rest for 10-20 minutes before slicing.

Internal temperature

The internal temperature of corned beef is important to monitor when cooking in an air fryer to ensure it is cooked properly and to your desired level of doneness. The target internal temperature will vary depending on how well done you want your corned beef to be. For a minimum level of doneness, you should aim for an internal temperature of 145 °F (63 °C). This can be measured by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat.

To achieve this internal temperature, most recipes recommend cooking the corned beef in the air fryer for 1 hour at 350-360 °F (180 °C), then uncovering the foil and basting the brisket with the remaining paste before cooking for a further 40 minutes. At this point, the internal temperature should be checked with a meat thermometer. If the internal temperature has not yet reached 145 °F (63 °C), continue cooking until it reaches this temperature.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the corned beef brisket and the specific model of your air fryer. Therefore, it is recommended to use the cooking time as a guide and adjust as needed. Additionally, preheating your air fryer for at least 3 minutes is suggested to ensure even cooking.

To retain moisture in the corned beef during the cooking process, you can pour low-sodium beef broth into the bottom of the air fryer basket. This will create steam and help keep the meat juicy and tender. Checking the internal temperature periodically with a meat thermometer will help you achieve your desired level of doneness, whether you prefer your corned beef medium, medium-rare, or well done.

Serving suggestions

Corned beef is a staple in traditional Irish cuisine and is often served during St. Patrick's Day celebrations. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, and you can serve it in multiple ways. Here are some serving suggestions for corned beef cooked in an air fryer:

Classic Pairings

A classic Irish-American meal is to serve corned beef with cabbage and potatoes. You can steam, sauté, or air-fry the cabbage to your desired texture. Potatoes are also a great side dish and can be roasted, mashed, or made into potato pancakes for a crunchy texture.

Hearty Breakfast

If you have leftover corned beef, you can create a hearty breakfast hash by pairing it with eggs and potatoes. This is a great way to use up any extra corned beef and start your day with a delicious and satisfying meal.

Sandwiches and Wraps

Corned beef is versatile and can be used to make sandwiches or wraps. Stack slices of corned beef on rye bread with sauerkraut and Russian dressing for a traditional Reuben sandwich. You can also add mustard and Swiss cheese to your sandwich and grill or toast it for an indulgent lunchtime treat. For a lighter option, wrap the corned beef with your choice of vegetables and sauces.

Traditional Sides

Colcannon is a creamy Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and kale or cabbage. It is a perfect side dish to corned beef, providing a contrast in texture and enhancing the overall dining experience.

Salads and Pickles

A simple green salad or pickles can add a refreshing element to your meal. This option is perfect for those who want a lighter side dish to accompany the rich and savory corned beef.

Customizable Options

You can also get creative and experiment with your own recipes. For example, you can make potato pancakes, add a glaze to your corned beef, or use unique spices and seasonings to create a well-rounded and memorable meal.

Frequently asked questions