Air-Frying Flank Steak: A Quick, Easy, Delicious Method

Flank steak is a versatile cut of beef that is often used for dishes like fajitas, tacos, sandwiches, and salads. It is a lean, affordable, and flavourful cut of meat. Traditionally, flank steak is grilled, but it can also be cooked in an air fryer. Air-frying flank steak is a convenient method that yields moist and tender beef without the hassle of cleaning up splatters. The air fryer's convection-like hot air cooks the beef quickly, preventing it from drying out or becoming tough.

Marinating the steak

If you're marinating the steak for less than 30 minutes, you can leave it at room temperature. For longer marination times, place the steak in the refrigerator, but remember to take it out 30 minutes before cooking so it can return to room temperature.

There are a few ways to enhance the marination process. Firstly, ensure the steak is evenly coated by turning the bag or flipping the steak halfway through. You can also "score" the meat by cutting very thin lines in a crosshatch pattern on both sides. This will help impart extra flavour.

When it's time to cook the steak, remove it from the marinade and place it in the air fryer basket. Don't forget to preheat your air fryer!

Choosing a good cut of flank steak

Thickness and Weight:

Look for a flank steak that is at least one inch thick. This ensures optimal cooking, allowing the heat to penetrate the steak evenly. A thicker cut, around a 2-pound wedge-shaped steak, is ideal as it provides a good balance of flavour and cooking time. If one end is significantly thicker than the other, consider cutting it into two separate pieces or pounding it with a meat mallet to even out the thickness.

Freshness and Fat Content:

Opt for a flank steak that is cut the same day or choose one without large chunks of fat. Freshness is important to ensure the best texture and flavour, and avoiding large fat chunks will prevent the steak from becoming overly greasy during cooking.

Marinade and Seasoning:

While not mandatory, marinating your flank steak can significantly enhance its flavour and tenderness. A simple marinade of vinegar, oil, and spices, or a dry rub of salt and black pepper, can be effective. For best results, marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours, flipping the steak halfway through to ensure even coating. If you prefer a quick method, a pan sear before air frying can also add flavour and a nice sear.

Cooking Temperature and Timing:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). The ideal cooking time for flank steak is 8-12 minutes for medium-rare, and 15 minutes for medium. Flipping the steak halfway through ensures even cooking. Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Remember, the key to choosing a good flank steak is selecting a fresh, quality cut with an appropriate thickness and minimal large fat chunks. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can transform this affordable and versatile cut into a juicy and tender treat.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The ideal air fryer temperature for cooking flank steak is a topic of debate. Some sources recommend preheating the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, while others suggest a higher temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit. A lower temperature of 200 degrees Fahrenheit has also been suggested, with a dash of water in the bottom and prewarming for ten minutes.

The cooking time for flank steak in an air fryer can vary depending on the desired level of doneness, the thickness of the steak, and the model of the air fryer. For a medium-rare steak, cook the steak for 4 to 7 minutes on each side, flipping only once. The total cooking time for medium-rare steak can range from 8 to 15 minutes. For a medium steak, cook for 5 to 7 minutes on the first side, and then 4 to 5 minutes on the second side, for a total of 10 to 15 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the model of the air fryer, as different air fryers cook at a range of temperatures. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the steak, which should reach 130 to 145 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare and 125 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium.

To ensure the steak is not overcooked, it is suggested to cook it to about 5 degrees below the desired temperature and then allow it to rest, covered, for at least 5 minutes. The temperature will rise by a few degrees during this time.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that some sources recommend using a dry rub or marinade to season the steak before cooking. Marinating the steak can help tenderize it and enhance its flavor. However, others suggest that a quick pan sear before air frying is sufficient to tenderize the meat.

Resting and slicing the steak

Once your steak is done, remove it from the air fryer and wrap it in aluminium foil. It is important to let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps the steak retain its juices, keeping it moist and tender.

While the steak is resting, you can prepare a simple side dish to go with it. Some suggestions include a corn relish with fresh corn, shallots, tomatoes, and cilantro or parsley; a classic wedge salad; or roasted butternut squash and Brussels sprouts.

After the steak has rested, place it on a chopping board and slice it thinly against the grain. This means cutting in the opposite direction of the muscle fibres, which can be identified by the lines running through the meat. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibres, making the meat more tender and easier to chew.

Finally, serve the steak with your chosen side dish and enjoy!

Sides and leftovers

Flank steak is a versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes, including tacos, burritos, nachos, fajitas, salads, and rice bowls. It can also be served on its own with a variety of sides. Here are some side dish ideas to serve with your air-fried flank steak:

• Corn relish: This relish is a great option for summer. It is made with fresh corn, shallots, tomatoes, cilantro or parsley, and a touch of acid. It adds a nice touch of freshness and flavour to the steak.
• Steak and potatoes: Instant pot mashed potatoes are a quick and tasty side dish that goes well with flank steak.
• Steamed vegetables: For a steakhouse-worthy side, try steamed asparagus or green bean bundles.
• Salad: A healthy salad can be a great side dish, especially if you're looking for something lighter.
• Mashed cauliflower: For a creamy and comforting side dish, try making mashed cauliflower.
• Stuffed shells: These can be filled with a variety of ingredients and are a fun and hearty option.
• Mac and cheese: This classic comfort food is always a crowd-pleaser and can be a great side dish to flank steak.
• Brussels sprouts: Try making Bang Bang Brussels Sprouts as a tasty and unique side dish.

If you have any leftover flank steak, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or in the freezer for several months. Leftovers can be used in salads, wraps, and rice bowls, or you can get creative and experiment with different recipes.

Frequently asked questions