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How to Air Fry Pork Fillet Medallions: A Deliciously Healthy Dinner Option

Pork fillet medallions are a succulent and versatile choice for a mid-week dinner, and air frying them is a fantastic way to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy inside. If you’re looking for a quick and health-conscious meal, air frying is the perfect solution. Follow this guide to create delectable pork fillet medallions that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

To serve four people, you will need:

• 500g pork fillet, trimmed and cut into medallions, about 2.5cm thick
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking tongs
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)

Preparation

1. Marinate the Medallions: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the pork fillet medallions to the bowl, ensuring they are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and allow the medallions to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best results, marinate for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. This helps to tenderise the meat and enhance the flavours.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 400°F) for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures your pork fillet medallions cook evenly and develop a delightful crust.

3. Arrange the Medallions: After marinating, remove the medallions from the bowl and let any excess marinade drip off. Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is space between each piece for proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the medallions in batches.

4. Air Fry: Cook the medallions at 200°C for approximately 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to achieve an even, golden-brown exterior. If you’re using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 65°C (149°F) for perfect doneness.

5. Rest the Meat: Once cooked, remove the medallions from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavourful.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve your air-fried pork fillet medallions alongside your choice of sides. They pair beautifully with seasonal vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.

Tips for Perfect Pork Fillet Medallions

• Choose Quality Meat: Opt for good quality pork fillet from your butcher or supermarket. Look for a piece that is pink in colour with minimal fat for the best results.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the thickness of your medallions and the model of your air fryer, cooking times may vary. Always use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to mix up the marinade! Try adding soy sauce, honey, or fresh herbs for a different flavour profile.
• Clean Your Air Fryer: After cooking, allow the air fryer to cool and clean the basket to maintain its performance.

Conclusion

Air frying pork fillet medallions is not only a quick and easy method, but it also results in a healthier meal without sacrificing flavour. With minimal oil and effortless preparation, it’s a winning recipe for any busy household. Enjoy your meal, and don’t hesitate to share your culinary adventure with others!