Air Fryer Tuna Steak: How Long To Fry?

Tuna steaks are a great, healthy option for a quick and easy meal. They can be seasoned in a variety of ways and are versatile enough to be served as an appetizer or a main course. But how long do you cook them in an air fryer?

The cooking time will depend on your air fryer model, the thickness of the tuna steak, and your personal preference for doneness. As a general guideline, for a medium-rare tuna steak, cook for around 4-5 minutes, and for a well-done steak, increase the cooking time to 8-10 minutes. It's important to keep an eye on the tuna as it cooks, as overcooked tuna can become rubbery and unappealing.

To achieve a perfect sear and your desired level of doneness, preheating your air fryer and patting the tuna steaks dry before cooking are crucial steps. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy a delicious and healthy tuna steak cooked to perfection!

How long to cook frozen tuna steaks in an air fryer

Frozen tuna steaks can be cooked in an air fryer in as little as 7 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the perfect air-fried frozen tuna steak.

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Firstly, preheat your air fryer to 370-380°F (180-190°C). This step is important as it ensures even cooking on both sides of the tuna steak. Most air fryers have a preheat function, but if yours doesn't, simply run it at the desired temperature for about 5 minutes before adding the steaks.

Step 2: Prepare the Tuna Steaks

While the air fryer is preheating, take your frozen tuna steaks out of the freezer and remove any packaging. It is recommended to thaw frozen tuna steaks before cooking, but if you're short on time, you can cook them straight from frozen in the air fryer.

Step 3: Season the Tuna Steaks (Optional)

You can season the tuna steaks with a simple combination of olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also get creative with herbs like cilantro, dill, mint, and green onions for extra flavor.

Step 4: Cook the Tuna Steaks

Place the seasoned tuna steaks into the air fryer basket. For a rare steak, cook for 3 minutes per side. For a medium-rare steak, cook for 4 minutes per side. If you prefer your tuna well-done, increase the cooking time to 6-8 minutes per side.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

The FDA recommends cooking seafood to an internal temperature of 145°F to prevent foodborne illness. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of your tuna steaks.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once your tuna steaks have reached the desired level of doneness, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Always ensure your air fryer is clean before use. Leftover food particles can burn and affect the taste of your tuna steaks.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Place the tuna steaks in a single layer with space around each steak to ensure even cooking.
• Flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time to get an even cook and a perfect sear on both sides.

By following these steps, you'll be able to enjoy perfectly cooked frozen tuna steaks from the comfort of your own home, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor!

How to get a rare tuna steak in an air fryer

Ingredients

You will need:

• 1 tuna steak (10 oz)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, basil, oregano, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Brush the sauce on both sides of the tuna steak.
• Place the steak in the air fryer and cook for 7-8 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steak, so adjust as needed.
• Once the tuna steak is cooked to your desired level of doneness, carefully remove it from the air fryer.
• Let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steak more succulent and flavorful.

Tips for Success:

• Preheat your air fryer for best results.
• Pat the tuna steak dry before applying the marinade to ensure even browning.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Place the steaks in a single layer with space around each piece for even cooking.
• Flip the steaks halfway through the cooking time for an even cook and perfect sear on both sides.
• Clean your air fryer regularly to maintain its performance and prevent leftover food particles from burning.

Serving Suggestions:

• For a light meal, serve the tuna steak on a bed of mixed greens or with a fresh salad.
• For a heartier option, pair the tuna with roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Try an Asian-inspired twist by serving the tuna on a bed of rice or with steamed jasmine rice.

How to get a well-done tuna steak in an air fryer

Ingredients

You will need:

• 1 tuna steak (10 oz)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, basil, oregano, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
• Brush the sauce onto both sides of the tuna steak.
• Place the steak in the air fryer and cook for 12-14 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for a well-done tuna steak.
• Once cooked, carefully remove the steak from the air fryer and serve hot.

Tips

• If you prefer your tuna steak well-done, it's better to slightly overcook it than undercook it. You can always put it back in the air fryer for a few more minutes if it's not done enough.
• If you're cooking multiple steaks, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Place the steaks in a single layer with some space around each piece to ensure even cooking.
• For a perfect sear, pat the tuna steak dry with a paper towel before applying the marinade or seasoning. This helps the marinade adhere better and promotes even browning.
• Always clean your air fryer after each use to prevent any leftover food particles from burning and sticking to your next meal.

How to serve air fryer tuna steaks

Air fryer tuna steaks are a quick, simple, and delicious meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. With just a few basic ingredients and an air fryer, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that is tender, juicy, and full of flavour. Here is a guide on how to serve air fryer tuna steaks, including cooking instructions, serving suggestions, and recipe variations.

Cooking Air Fryer Tuna Steaks

First, gather your ingredients. You will need tuna steaks, preferably thick and meaty slices, olive oil or another oil of your choice, and salt and pepper for seasoning. You can also add lemon juice or other ingredients for additional flavour.

Preheat your air fryer to between 360-400°F (180-200°C). While the air fryer is heating up, pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel and drizzle them with oil. Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the steaks.

Place the steaks in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer with some space around each steak for even cooking. Cook the tuna steaks for 2-3 minutes on each side for a medium-rare steak. Increase the cooking time to 4 minutes on each side for a well-done steak. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the steaks and your personal preference for doneness.

Once the tuna steaks are cooked to your liking, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the steaks more succulent and flavourful.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer tuna steaks are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish:

• Salsa Fresca: Chop up some ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and jalapenos, and squeeze in some lime juice. This fresh and vibrant topping adds a burst of flavour to your tuna steak.
• Asian Twist: Drizzle your tuna steak with a mix of soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. It's a flavour explosion that pairs perfectly with the meaty tuna.
• Simple Lemon and Parsley: Sometimes, less is more. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley can elevate your tuna steak to gourmet levels with minimal effort.
• Salad: Tuna steaks go well with a fresh salad. Try a citrus vinaigrette or a balsamic glaze to complement the tuna's flavour.
• Rice and Vegetables: For a heartier meal, serve the tuna steaks with rice and roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Sushi Style: Slice the tuna steaks thinly and serve them sushi-style with sesame seeds and chives or green onion for a fresh and delicious appetizer.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of tuna steaks is their versatility. You can easily experiment with different flavours and ingredients to create unique dishes. Here are some variations to try:

• Herb and Spice Variations: If you're not a fan of the suggested spices, feel free to swap them out with your favourites. For a Mediterranean twist, use dried rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of oregano.
• Marinade Substitutes: Instead of soy sauce, try other umami-rich sauces like Worcestershire or tamari. A balsamic glaze can also add a nice tang and sweetness to the tuna steak.
• Fish Substitutions: While this recipe uses tuna steaks, you can substitute other thick, sturdy fish fillets like swordfish or salmon fillets. Adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

How to store leftover tuna steaks

Tuna steaks are a delicious treat, but it's important to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store leftover tuna steaks:

Storing Leftover Tuna Steaks in the Fridge

If you have leftover tuna steaks, it's crucial to refrigerate them within two hours to prevent spoilage. The ideal refrigerator temperature is below 40°F (4°C), and the leftover tuna should be consumed within three to four days for optimal taste and food safety. Make sure to use an airtight container or cling wrap to prevent cross-contamination with other foods in your fridge.

Freezing Leftover Tuna Steaks

If you want to extend the shelf life of your leftover tuna steaks, you can freeze them. However, keep in mind that freezing may affect the texture and flavour of the fish. It's best to consume frozen tuna steaks within three months for the best quality, even though they can be safely stored for longer.

Storing Leftover Tuna Steaks at Room Temperature

Tuna steaks are highly perishable and should not be left at room temperature for extended periods. If your room temperature is above 90°F (32°C), you must refrigerate the leftover tuna within an hour. Otherwise, it will need to be discarded.

Reheating Leftover Tuna Steaks

When reheating leftover tuna steaks, it's best to avoid using an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer as these can overcook the tuna. Instead, bring the tuna to room temperature and then use a non-stick pan over medium heat. Avoid high heat to prevent further cooking or drying out the tuna. You can also poach the tuna steak in olive oil or vegetable oil to cook it through without overcooking.

Frequently asked questions