Air-Fried Beef Brisket: A Quick, Crispy Delight

Cooking beef brisket in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to prepare a delicious meal. The air fryer's even circulation of hot air ensures the meat is thoroughly cooked while remaining tender and juicy. This method is ideal for cooking a tougher cut of meat, as the air fryer breaks down connective tissues, resulting in a succulent and flavourful dish. The key to a perfect air-fried brisket is in the preparation and seasoning, with a variety of rubs and spices to choose from. The size of the brisket is also important, as it must fit easily into the air fryer for optimal cooking.

Choosing the right cut of beef brisket

Size and Thickness: The limited space in an air fryer basket requires a different approach from traditional smokers. Opt for a smaller cut of beef brisket, such as a brisket flat, which is more manageable in size and thickness. This ensures even cooking and promotes uniform doneness. A 3-4 pound brisket is a good size to fit comfortably in most air fryers without needing to be cut or squeezed in.

Cooking Time and Thickness: The thickness of the brisket will impact the cooking time. Smaller and thinner cuts will have shorter cooking times, so you can enjoy your meal sooner. A good rule of thumb is approximately 10-12 minutes per pound of brisket.

Fat Content: Look for a brisket with a nice fat cap, as some fat is desirable for flavor and juiciness. However, excess fat can hinder the penetration of seasonings and the formation of a delicious bark. Trim the brisket to aim for about 1/4 inch of fat.

Marbling: Marbling refers to the distribution of fat within the meat. The point cut of brisket has more marbling, making it juicier and more flavorful. It's perfect for shredding or using in recipes like tacos or sandwiches.

Personal Preference: Finally, don't forget that seasoning and cooking techniques can also impact the final result. Experiment with different combinations of seasonings to find what suits your taste preferences. You can also try different cooking methods, such as slow cooking or searing, to achieve the desired texture and flavor.

Preparing the brisket for the air fryer

Trimming and Scoring:

Start by examining the fat content on your brisket. Trim any excess fat, aiming to leave around 1/4 inch. This step is important because while some fat enhances flavour and juiciness, too much can hinder the penetration of seasonings and the formation of a delicious bark. After trimming, score the fat side of the brisket. This involves making shallow cuts across the fat, creating a crisscross pattern.

Seasoning:

The key to a flavourful brisket is in the seasoning. You can use a dry rub, a marinade, or a combination of both. For a dry rub, create a blend of herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage. You can also add brown sugar to the mix for a touch of sweetness. Coat the brisket with olive oil and mustard, then generously apply the dry rub, making sure to cover all surfaces. You can also wrap the brisket with string before applying the rub to help hold its shape during cooking. If you prefer a marinade, try using a combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and your choice of herbs and spices. Ensure the brisket is thoroughly coated and let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight for the best results.

Size and Fit:

When preparing your brisket, it's important to consider the size of your air fryer. You want to ensure that the brisket fits comfortably in the air fryer basket without having to shove or stuff it in. If necessary, cut the brisket into halves or smaller pieces to ensure it fits properly. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a brisket that is around 2.5 to 3 pounds, which should serve about 4 to 6 people.

Preheating:

Before placing the brisket in the air fryer, preheat the appliance to the desired temperature. Most recipes recommend preheating between 350°F and 375°F. You can also spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

By following these steps, you will have a well-prepared beef brisket that is ready for the air fryer. Remember, the preparation process is key to achieving a tender, juicy, and flavourful dish.

Cooking the brisket in the air fryer

First, you will need to trim any excess fat from the brisket, leaving about a quarter of an inch. This is important because while some fat is good for flavor and moisture, too much can prevent the seasoning from penetrating the meat and hinder the formation of a delicious bark. Score the fat side of the brisket, and season it with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. You can also add a dry rub of garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage. A dry rub with brown sugar will add a sweet flavor to the meat. Alternatively, you can add a savory bite with some mustard—Dijon or whole-grain. Blot the brisket with a paper towel before seasoning, if needed.

Place the brisket in the air fryer basket, fat side up, and cook at 350°F for 30 minutes. You can line the basket with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Then, lift the meat out and place it in foil, again, fat side up. Wrap the brisket with two pieces of foil that cross over each other. Pour in some broth, and fold the sides to prevent leakage. Place the brisket back in the air fryer and cook at 300°F for about 2 hours, or until the thickest part of the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 195°F.

Remove the brisket from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 to 20 minutes. This is an important step as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat juicier and more tender. It also gives time for the flavors to develop. The internal temperature will rise by about 10 degrees as the meat rests, so remove the brisket from the heat when it reaches 180°F to 185°F.

Finally, slice the brisket thinly, cutting against the grain, and serve with the juices from the foil drizzled on top.

Resting and slicing the brisket

Resting the brisket is an important step in the cooking process. It allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product. Depending on the size and thickness of your brisket, you should let it rest for at least 10 minutes, and up to 30 minutes. During this time, the meat will continue to cook, and the internal temperature will rise by about 10 degrees. If you want your brisket to be in the ideal range of 195 degrees Fahrenheit, you should remove it from the air fryer when it reaches about 180-185 degrees Fahrenheit.

While the brisket is resting, you can wrap it in foil to keep it warm. You can also use this time to prepare any side dishes, such as roasted carrots, mashed potatoes, cabbage, or cornbread.

Once the resting period is over, it's time to slice the brisket. It is recommended to slice against the grain, which means cutting through the muscle fibers. This makes the meat more tender and easier to chew. You can cut the brisket into thin slices, thick slices, or a mixture of both, depending on your preference. An electric carving knife can be useful for slicing the meat, especially if you are aiming for thin slices.

Serving the brisket with sides

Once your brisket is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 10–30 minutes. This is an important step as it lets the juices redistribute, making the meat juicier and more tender. After resting, transfer the brisket to a cutting board and remove the string. Then, slice the brisket. You can cut it into thin slices, thick slices, or a mixture of both, but make sure to cut against the grain. This ensures that you're cutting through the muscle fibers, making the meat easier to chew.

Now, it's time to serve your juicy and tender brisket! You can pair it with your favorite barbecue sauce or dipping sauce. Some people prefer only a dry rub, so it's best to keep the sauces on the side so everyone can choose their favorite. You can also serve the brisket with a side of broth, pouring it over the meat.

When it comes to side dishes, there are many options to choose from. Here are some ideas to consider:

• Baked potato or French fries
• Cornbread
• Garlic knots
• Air fryer cheese bites
• Roasted carrots
• Mashed potatoes
• Cabbage
• Horseradish sauce

Frequently asked questions