How to Cook London Broil in an Air Fryer?
Cooking London broil in an air fryer involves marinating the meat, preheating the air fryer, and cooking at a specific temperature and time, flipping halfway through, to achieve a perfectly tender and evenly cooked result. This method is quick, convenient, and produces a delicious, healthy meal.
What is London Broil?
London broil is a lean cut of beef, typically from the flank steak or top round. It’s known for its affordability and flavor, but can be tough if not cooked properly. Marinating is crucial to tenderizing the meat and infusing it with flavor. Traditionally, London broil is grilled or broiled, but the air fryer offers a faster and more convenient cooking method.
Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for London Broil
Air fryers offer several advantages over traditional cooking methods for London broil:
- Speed: Air frying cooks food faster than grilling or broiling.
- Convenience: Easy to use and requires minimal cleanup.
- Healthier Cooking: Uses little to no oil, reducing fat content.
- Even Cooking: Circulates hot air for consistent results.
- Less Smoke: Avoids the smoky mess associated with indoor grilling.
Essential Steps for Air Frying London Broil
The key to a perfect air-fried London broil lies in proper preparation and cooking technique.
- Marinate the Meat: At least 2 hours, but preferably overnight. A good marinade should include an acid (vinegar, lemon juice), oil, and seasonings.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: This ensures even cooking and helps create a nice sear. Set it to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Broil: Pat the marinated London broil dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps with browning.
- Air Fry: Place the London broil in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s not overcrowded. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C). For medium, aim for 135-145°F (57-63°C).
- Rest the Meat: Allow the London broil to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
- Slice Thinly Against the Grain: This is crucial for tenderizing the meat and making it easier to chew.
A Recommended Marinade Recipe
Here’s a basic but flavorful marinade that works well for London broil:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Pat the Meat Dry: Excess moisture hinders browning.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Accuracy is key to achieving your desired doneness.
- Rest the Meat: This is not optional! It significantly improves tenderness.
- Slice Against the Grain: This is just as important as resting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Undermarinating: Not marinating long enough can result in a tough, flavorless London broil.
- Overcooking: Overcooked London broil will be dry and tough.
- Skipping the Resting Period: Essential for juicy and tender meat.
- Slicing with the Grain: Results in a tough, stringy texture.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer: Affects cooking time and browning.
Cooking Time Table
This table provides a general guideline. Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the London broil and your air fryer model. Always use a meat thermometer to verify doneness.
| Doneness | Internal Temperature | Approximate Cooking Time (minutes) |
|---|---|---|
| Rare | 125-130°F (52-54°C) | 10-12 |
| Medium-Rare | 130-135°F (54-57°C) | 12-15 |
| Medium | 135-145°F (57-63°C) | 15-18 |
| Medium-Well | 145-155°F (63-68°C) | 18-20 |
| Well-Done | 155°F+ (68°C+) | 20+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen London broil?
Yes, but it’s strongly recommended to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking. Cooking frozen meat can lead to uneven cooking and a tougher texture. Thawing in the refrigerator is the safest method.
What is the best temperature to cook London broil in an air fryer?
A temperature of 400°F (200°C) is generally recommended for cooking London broil in an air fryer. This high heat helps to create a nice sear on the outside while cooking the inside to your desired doneness. However, always adjust based on your specific air fryer model.
How long should I marinate London broil?
Ideally, you should marinate London broil for at least 2 hours, but overnight marinating yields the best results. A longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and helps to tenderize it. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acid can start to break down the meat too much.
Do I need to flip the London broil in the air fryer?
Yes, flipping the London broil halfway through the cooking process ensures even cooking on both sides. This helps to prevent one side from becoming overcooked or burnt while the other side remains undercooked.
How do I know when the London broil is done?
The most reliable way to determine doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bone or fat. Compare the internal temperature to the chart provided earlier in this article. Remember to rest the meat after cooking, as the temperature will continue to rise a few degrees.
Can I add vegetables to the air fryer with the London broil?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the air fryer alongside the London broil. However, they may require different cooking times. It’s best to add them during the last 5-7 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming overcooked or burnt.
What sides go well with air-fried London broil?
London broil pairs well with a variety of side dishes, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, and salads. Consider options that complement the flavors of your marinade. Simple side dishes like grilled asparagus or a mixed green salad are always a good choice.
Can I use a different cut of beef besides London broil?
While the recipe is optimized for London broil (flank steak or top round), you could potentially use other lean cuts of beef like sirloin. However, cooking times may need to be adjusted. Always monitor the internal temperature carefully to ensure it’s cooked to your liking.
What if my air fryer doesn’t have a temperature setting?
Some air fryers have dial settings instead of specific temperatures. In this case, use the high setting, which is usually equivalent to around 400°F (200°C). Experiment and take notes on your cooking times to refine your technique for your specific appliance.
Why is my London broil tough?
The most common reasons for tough London broil are undermarinating, overcooking, and not slicing against the grain. Ensure you marinate the meat for a sufficient amount of time, avoid overcooking by using a meat thermometer, and always slice the meat thinly against the grain.
Can I reheat London broil in the air fryer?
Yes, you can reheat London broil in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid overcooking, as this can dry out the meat.
What kind of oil should I use in the marinade?
Olive oil is a great choice for marinades due to its flavor and health benefits. However, you can also use other oils such as vegetable oil or canola oil. Avoid using oils with very low smoke points.