Which cuts to choose and how to keep them from drying out
The air fryer has become a practical alternative for cooking at home. It is an appliance that allows you to prepare many foods with little oil and without having to turn on the oven, which is especially useful when you want to put a meal together without too much fuss.
But what happens when you want to cook meat in an air fryer? At Ramaders Agrupats, we show you which types of meat work best and what details you should keep in mind to achieve good results.
Although an air fryer cooks by circulating hot air, the result depends on the type of meat you use, its thickness, the quantity and the appliance’s power.
Meat products that work best in an air fryer
Steaks are a practical option. However, if they are too thin or overcooked, they can easily lose their juiciness. Before adding any seasoning, gently pat them dry with kitchen paper.
If you want to prepare them with a marinade, remove any excess liquid before placing the meat in the air fryer to help it brown.
Chicken is ideal for preparing wings, boneless thighs, drumsticks and other cuts. The skin can turn golden and crispy if the basket allows air to circulate properly around the pieces.
If you are cooking chicken with the skin on, dry it thoroughly before seasoning. For skinless cuts, a small amount of oil can help improve browning.
Tips to keep meat from drying out
Choosing the right cut is only part of the process. Small details can also make the difference between juicy meat and meat that is overcooked.
1. Consider the thickness of the cut. Thickness directly affects the time needed to cook the meat. A thin piece can dry out quickly, while a thicker one needs more time for the heat to reach the centre.
2. Do not overcrowd the basket. This is one of the most common mistakes. If you place too much meat together, the hot air cannot circulate properly and the cooking may be uneven.
3. Use oil sparingly. Applying a small amount of oil to the meat can help achieve a more golden surface.
You can spread it with a brush or use an oil spray. Remember that using more oil does not necessarily mean the meat will be juicier.
4. Let the meat rest when appropriate. For whole cuts, such as thick steaks or pork chops, allowing the meat to rest briefly after cooking can help the juices redistribute before slicing.
5. Avoid overcrowding the pieces. In general, it is especially important to avoid piling the pieces on top of one another. Otherwise, they will not cook as they should.
6. Avoid opening the air fryer constantly. It is better to check the doneness once the expected cooking time has elapsed rather than opening the air fryer repeatedly.
An air fryer can be a great ally when preparing meat at home, but it does not replace the importance of choosing the right cut or controlling the cooking process.
And remember: if you are unsure which meat product to choose, ask Ramaders Agrupats for advice. Choosing your meat with the cooking method in mind is the first step towards enjoying it.
At Ramaders Agrupats, you’ll find a wide variety of products. Place your order online and have quality products delivered to your home so you can enjoy the flavours of Mallorca.
