The concept of how to cook a London broil in an air fryer may sound like a culinary challenge at first. However, with the right technique and a bit of patience, you can transform this traditional steak cut into a delightful dish. In this article, we will take you through a comprehensive journey, providing you with all essential information and steps to master this recipe in your very own kitchen.

The Basics of London Broil

Before diving into the specifics of cooking London broil in an air fryer, let's understand what London broil actually is. London broil refers to a method of preparing meat, typically flank or top round steak, marinated and then broiled. The meat is usually cooked medium-rare and then thinly sliced across the grain. In an air fryer, this classic method gets a modern twist, retaining the rich flavors while drastically cutting down on cooking time.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

The air fryer has revolutionized kitchen appliances for good reasons. This compact machine allows you to cook foods rapidly using circulated hot air, making it both energy-efficient and healthier than traditional frying methods. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly cooked London broil with a beautiful caramelized exterior and tender interior.

Essential Ingredients

Marinating the Meat

Marinating is a crucial step in the process of how to cook a London broil in an air fryer. It not only infuses the meat with flavor but also tenderizes it. To create a delicious marinade, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, onion powder, black pepper, and salt in a bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly blended.

Place the flank steak or top round steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over the meat. Seal the bag, removing as much air as possible, and massage the marinade into the meat. Allow the meat to marinate in the refrigerator for at least four hours, but preferably overnight for the best results. The longer the marinating time, the more flavorful and tender your London broil will be.

Preparing Your Air Fryer

Before you start cooking your marinated London broil, preheat the air fryer to 400F (200C). Preheating the air fryer is an essential step to ensure even cooking. While your air fryer is preheating, remove the marinated meat from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

During this time, you can prepare your air fryer basket. Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. If your air fryer is large enough, you can also cut your steak into smaller pieces to ensure it fits comfortably in the basket. For high-quality air fryers, you can check out Taste's air fryer recommendations. For more air fryer recipes, check out air fryer recipes by Jamie Oliver.

Cooking the London Broil

Once your air fryer is preheated, carefully place the marinated flank steak or top round steak into the basket. Ensure the steak pieces do not overlap, as this can cause uneven cooking. Close the air fryer and set the timer for 12 minutes.

Around midway through the cooking time, flip the steak pieces to ensure even cooking on both sides. To achieve the perfect cook, aim for an internal temperature of 130F (54C) for medium-rare. If you prefer the meat more well-done, cook it for a few additional minutes, closely monitoring the internal temperature.

Resting and Slicing

Once your London broil reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. Use a sharp knife from your knife set to carve the meat.

To slice the London broil, cut against the grain into thin strips. Slicing against the grain minimizes the length of the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender. Arrange the slices on a serving platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an added touch of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Your beautifully cooked London broil can be served in various ways. It pairs exceptionally well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a complete gourmet experience, consider serving it with a homemade chimichurri sauce. This vibrant green sauce, made from parsley, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar, complements the rich flavor of the beef perfectly.

For a casual gathering, you can also use the sliced London broil to create mouthwatering sandwiches. Simply layer the slices on a toasted baguette or ciabatta roll, add some caramelized onions, arugula, and a smear of horseradish sauce for a quick yet delectable meal.

Care and Maintenance of Cookware

Proper care of your cooking tools is essential to prolong their lifespan. After preparing your London broil, make sure to thoroughly clean your air fryer according to the manufacturers instructions. For best results, you can use a stainless steel cleaner, which is ideal for keeping your appliance in top-notch condition.

Additionally, maintain the quality of your knives and cutting board. Regularly sharpen your knives to ensure precise and effortless cutting. Condition your cutting board with a suitable conditioner to prevent cracks and maintain its appearance.

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