Air-Frying Cabbage Steaks: How Long Does It Take?

Air fryer cabbage steaks are a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that can be cooked in under 20 minutes. They are a great way to add some low-calorie crunch to your meal and can be made in a variety of ways using different seasonings and ingredients. The cooking time for cabbage steaks in an air fryer can range from 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the desired level of doneness and the specific air fryer being used. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to make delicious air fryer cabbage steaks, including preparation tips and suggestions for serving.

How to cut cabbage steaks

To cut cabbage steaks, start by removing any loose outer leaves from the cabbage. Then, cut the stems off the cabbage heads and cut each one in half, and then in half again. You should end up with four flat discs or thick slices of cabbage that are about 3/4 to 1 inch thick from each head. You can place the cabbage head on its side and slice it all the way through to get evenly thick slabs.

Before cooking, you can season the cabbage steaks with various seasonings and oils. For example, you can brush them with olive oil and sprinkle salt, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some spice. Alternatively, you can use a pre-made salad dressing, such as Greek, Italian, or Caesar dressing, to add oil and seasoning to the steaks.

Once you have cut and seasoned the cabbage steaks, you can cook them in an air fryer for about 10-15 minutes at 360 degrees Fahrenheit, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If you like your cabbage steaks with crispy edges, cook them for closer to 15 minutes.

Air fryer temperature and timing

Air-frying cabbage steaks is a quick and easy way to cook this healthy dish. The air fryer temperature and timing will depend on the type of cabbage steak you are aiming for, as well as the size and model of your air fryer.

Firstly, it is important to ensure your cabbage steaks are cut to a uniform width of around 3/4" to 1" thick. This will help them cook evenly.

If you are going for tender cabbage steaks with a crispy texture, you should air fry them for 8-15 minutes at 360°F or 180°C. You can spritz or brush the air fryer basket with oil first, and there is no need to flip the steaks during cooking. Check on them at the 8-minute mark to ensure they are not burning.

If you want your cabbage steaks to be more well-done and crispy, you can air fry them for 10-15 minutes at 375°F. You should flip the steaks halfway through.

For a more traditional roasted effect, you can air fry at 400°F for 6-8 minutes, then flip the steaks and cook for another 6-8 minutes. This method will give you cabbage steaks that are tender on the inside and crispy and golden brown on the outside.

It is worth noting that air fryer temperatures can vary depending on the brand, so you may need to adjust the temperature and timing accordingly. Additionally, if you want to soften your cabbage steaks, you can add a small amount of water to the base of the air fryer, but be sure to check your air fryer manual first.

Oil and seasoning

Choosing the Right Oil

When it comes to oil selection, olive oil is a popular choice for cabbage steaks. Its flavour complements the vegetable well, and it helps to create a nice browning effect. You can brush the oil onto the cabbage steaks or use a spray/cooking spray for a lighter coating. If you're not concerned about dairy, butter is another option that can be used in place of or in combination with olive oil. It adds a rich, savoury flavour to the dish.

Seasoning Options

The beauty of seasoning cabbage steaks is that you can be as creative or simple as you like. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Salt and Pepper: This dynamic duo is a classic for a reason. Salt enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage, while pepper adds a subtle kick.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, garlic powder, or both can be used to add a savoury punch to your cabbage steaks.
• Italian or Greek Salad Dressing: A drizzle of Italian or Greek salad dressing can take your cabbage steaks to the next level. These dressings often contain herbs, spices, and a tangy element that pairs well with the vegetable.
• Spices: Smoked paprika, turmeric, and red pepper flakes add colour and depth of flavour to your dish.
• Dijon Mustard and Caraway Seeds: For a unique flavour profile, try combining dijon mustard and caraway seeds with your olive oil mixture.
• Lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavours and add a nice acidic touch to your cabbage steaks.
• Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning blend can infuse your cabbage steaks with aromatic flavours.

Coating the Cabbage Steaks

To ensure even cooking and browning, it's important to coat the cabbage steaks thoroughly with oil and seasoning. Here are a few tips:

• Brush or Spray: Use a pastry brush or basting brush to coat the cabbage steaks with oil and seasoning. Make sure to get between the layers for maximum flavour. Alternatively, use a cooking spray for a lighter, more even coating.
• Flip and Repeat: Don't forget to season both sides of the cabbage steaks. After coating one side, gently flip the cabbage over and apply the oil and seasoning to the other side.
• Allow Space for Air Circulation: When placing the cabbage steaks in the air fryer, ensure they are in a single layer with some space between them. This allows hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and browning.

Softening cabbage with water

Air fryer cabbage steaks are a healthy and tasty side dish. They are usually cooked in 10-15 minutes, but the timing depends on the desired texture and the type of air fryer being used.

Some recipes recommend adding 1/4 cup of water to the base of the air fryer to help soften the cabbage. However, it is important to check if your air fryer is safe to use with water before doing so.

If you want to soften the cabbage with water before placing it in the air fryer, you can try blanching the leaves. First, remove the loose outer dark green leaves and set them aside. Then, remove the cabbage core by cutting a few inches deep into the cabbage. Trim away any tough stems or veins from the area around the core. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and place the cabbage in the water, core side down. Reduce the heat to a medium simmer and cook for about 8 minutes. Start pulling away the leaves using tongs or a wooden spoon. If the leaves are not pliable enough, return them to the simmering water for an additional 1-2 minutes. Transfer the leaves to a bowl of ice water for about 30 seconds to stop the cooking process and preserve their texture.

Another method to soften cabbage leaves without using boiling water is to freeze the head of cabbage overnight and allow it to thaw the next day. This changes the texture of the cabbage, making it softer and easier to work with.

Reheating and storing cabbage steaks

You can store leftover cabbage steaks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat them, you can use an air fryer, an oven, or a microwave.

To reheat cabbage steaks in an air fryer, spritz the air fryer with oil and reheat at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but the timing will vary depending on your microwave's settings and the quantity of cabbage steaks.

Frequently asked questions