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Cooking a Beef Roast in the Air Fryer: A Modern Twist on a Classic Dish

The Sunday roast has long been a cherished British tradition, bringing families together around the dining table. While the classic method usually involves hours of slow cooking in the oven, the advent of the air fryer has introduced a faster and equally delicious alternative. In this article, we’ll explore the steps to prepare a succulent beef roast in the air fryer, perfect for any occasion.

Why Choose the Air Fryer?

Air fryers have revolutionised home cooking by offering a quick, efficient way to achieve crispy, golden results without the excess oil typically used in frying. When it comes to roasting beef, the air fryer also provides even cooking and can yield a beautifully caramelised crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender. With its compact size, it also allows for easy clean-up and energy savings compared to traditional ovens.

Selecting Your Beef

When it comes to choosing the right cut of beef for roasting, several options are popular among British households:

• Sirloin: Known for its tenderness and rich flavour, sirloin is a fantastic choice for roasting.
• Ribeye: This well-marbled cut is incredibly juicy and full of flavour.
• Topside: A leaner option that is both economical and delicious, perfect for serving large groups.
• Brisket: A flavour-packed cut that becomes buttery soft when cooked properly.

For air frying, it’s advisable to select a cut that isn’t too thick; one that weighs around 1-1.5 kg is perfect for achieving even cooking.

Ingredients

• 1.5 kg beef roasting joint (your choice of cut)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard for added flavour

Preparation

1. Season the Beef: Begin by patting the beef joint dry with paper towels. This will help achieve a nice crust during cooking. In a small bowl, mix the vegetable oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper (plus Dijon mustard, if using). Rub this mixture all over the beef, ensuring that it is thoroughly coated. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavour.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Many air fryers require preheating for optimal results. Preheat yours to 180°C (350°F) for about 5 minutes.

3. Cooking the Beef: Place the seasoned beef roast in the air fryer basket. Ensure there’s enough space around the beef for hot air to circulate. Cook for approximately 25 minutes for rare, 30-35 minutes for medium, and 40-45 minutes for well-done, depending on the thickness of the joint. It’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: 50°C (120°F) for rare, 60°C (140°F) for medium, and 70°C (160°F) for well-done.

4. Resting: Once cooked to your desired preference, carefully remove the beef from the air fryer and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve it with your choice of traditional accompaniments such as roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, seasonal vegetables, and rich gravy. You may also consider a fresh horseradish sauce or a homemade red wine reduction to elevate the dish further.

Conclusion

Cooking a beef roast in the air fryer is a splendid way to enjoy a classic meal without the long wait typically associated with oven roasting. Not only does it save time, but it also delivers a deliciously satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests alike. So, dust off your air fryer and enjoy a modern twist on this beloved British tradition—the only question left is: how do you like your beef cooked?

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