Air-Fryer Steak: Cooking The Perfect Steak With Nuwave

Cooking steak in a Nuwave air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious, juicy steak. This method of cooking steak provides a crispy crust on the outside and a tender inside. It also ensures the steak is cooked at the perfect temperature and removes the guesswork of how long to cook it for.

Choosing the right steak

First, consider the type of steak you want to cook. Some popular options for air frying include ribeye, New York, tri-tip, filet mignon, skirt steak, and sirloin. These cuts tend to have a good amount of marbling, which leads to juicy and flavourful results.

Next, pay attention to the steak's grade. Look for a high-quality, well-marbled piece of meat. The grade will depend on your location, but in the US, for example, Prime grade steaks are known for their superior quality and flavour due to abundant marbling.

When selecting your steak, also consider its thickness. For air frying, choose steaks that are around 1 inch thick. This will ensure even cooking and allow you to achieve the perfect doneness you desire. Thinner steaks may cook too quickly and end up overdone, while thicker steaks may require longer cooking times.

Another factor to keep in mind is the amount of fat on the steak. Fat adds flavour and juiciness to the meat. Look for steaks with a moderate amount of fat distributed throughout, as this will help keep the steak moist and tasty during the cooking process.

Lastly, think about the number of steaks you need and the size of your air fryer. Make sure the steaks you choose will fit comfortably in the air fryer basket without overlapping. If you are cooking for a larger group, you may need to cook the steaks in batches or invest in a larger air fryer.

Remember, the key to a great air fryer steak is starting with a quality cut of meat that suits your preferences and the cooking method. By choosing the right steak, you'll be well on your way to a delicious and successful meal.

Preparing the steak

Next, rub a little olive oil on both sides of the steaks. You can also add other seasonings to your steaks, such as salt, pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning, rosemary, thyme, or parsley. You can also marinate the steaks in your favourite liquid marinade for extra flavour.

Now it's time to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also grease the air fryer basket by rubbing a little oil on it. Once the air fryer is preheated, place the steaks inside, being careful not to overlap them.

Cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steaks and your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare steak, cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a medium steak, set the timer for 12 minutes and flip after 6 minutes. Well-done steaks will take around 12 to 15 minutes. If you're using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature for medium-rare is 135 degrees F, 145 degrees F for medium, and 155 degrees F for medium-well.

Cooking the steak

Firstly, remove your steaks from the fridge and allow them to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. This will help the steak stay tender and juicy.

Next, rub a little olive oil on both sides of the steak. This is optional, but it adds flavour. Season the steaks with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasonings. You can also add spices like garlic salt, chilli powder, or your favourite steak rub.

Now, grease your air fryer basket by rubbing a little oil on it. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Once preheated, place the steaks in the basket and cook for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a medium-rare steak, cook for 10 minutes, and for medium-well, cook for 14 minutes. If you want a well-done steak, it will take 12 to 15 minutes.

Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to settle and ensure the steak stays juicy and tender. Finally, top the steak with a pat of garlic butter, your favourite steak sauce, or more seasoning.

Resting the steak

For the best results, transfer the steak to a cutting board or a plate and wrap it loosely in foil. This will help to keep the steak warm during the resting process. The ideal resting time for a steak cooked in an air fryer is around 5 to 10 minutes.

While your steak is resting, you can prepare any desired toppings or sauces. A pat of garlic butter or your favorite steak sauce can enhance the flavor of your steak. You can also use this time to prepare any side dishes that you plan to serve with your steak.

Keep in mind that the steak will continue to cook slightly during the resting period, so it's important not to rest it for too long. Additionally, the thickness of your steak and your desired level of doneness will impact the resting time. For a medium-rare steak, aim for a shorter resting time, while a well-done steak may require a bit more time to rest.

Serving the steak

Once your steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This is an important step to ensure your steak stays juicy and flavorful. Cover the steak loosely with foil to keep it warm.

You can top your steak with a pat of garlic butter, your favorite steak sauce, or your favorite seasoning. You can also serve it with the juices from the steak.

If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. To reheat, return to the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

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Frequently asked questions