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How to Cook Beef Stew Meat in an Air Fryer: Cooking Hacks for a Perfect British Stew

Beef stew is a beloved dish in British cuisine, known for its rich, hearty flavours and tender chunks of meat. Traditionally, it requires slow cooking to develop that satisfying taste. However, the air fryer has emerged as a versatile kitchen appliance that can yield delicious results in a fraction of the time. Here’s a guide on how to cook beef stew meat in an air fryer, along with some handy cooking hacks to elevate your stew game.

Selecting the Right Beef

Before you fire up your air fryer, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial. For stews, you want cuts that tenderise well during cooking. Look for:

• Chuck Steak: This is a classic choice for stews. It becomes incredibly tender when cooked slowly.
• Brisket: Another fantastic option, brisket is full of flavour and softens beautifully.
• Round Cuts: These can also work but may require longer cooking times and a bit more care to keep them tender.

Always opt for beef that has a good amount of marbling, as this fat adds flavour and helps with tenderness.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew

• 500g of beef stew meat (chopped into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2-3 carrots (sliced)
• 2-3 potatoes (diced)
• 2-3 cloves of garlic (minced)
• 500ml beef stock (or vegetable stock)
• 1-2 tsp dried herbs (such as thyme and rosemary)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: A splash of red wine for added depth

For a Delicious Gravy

• Cornflour mixed with water (for thickening)

Cooking Method

Step 1: Preparing the Beef

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the beef stew meat with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried herbs. Allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes—this can be done overnight for even better flavour.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F) and preheat for around 5 minutes.

Step 2: Air Frying the Beef

1. Place the Beef in the Air Fryer Basket: Spread the marinated beef chunks evenly in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
2. Cook the Beef: Set the timer for about 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, shake the basket to ensure even cooking. The beef should be browned on the outside and just cooked through. Check that it reaches an internal temperature of at least 70°C (160°F).

Step 3: Cooking the Vegetables

1. Toss in the Veggies: Once the beef is done, remove it from the air fryer and set it aside. In the same bowl, mix your diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and onions with some olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Air Fry the Vegetables: Air fry the vegetables at the same temperature (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. You want them to be golden and slightly tender but not fully cooked, as they will finish their cooking in the stew.

Step 4: Making the Stew

1. Combine Everything: In a large pot, combine the air-fried beef and vegetables, minced garlic, and beef stock (and wine, if using).
2. Simmer: Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for about 30 minutes. This step lets all the flavours meld beautifully together. If the stew is too thin, mix a conservative amount of cornflour with water and stir it in to thicken.

Step 5: Serving

Serve your hearty beef stew hot, paired with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or buttery dumplings. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for an added touch of colour and flavour.

Cooking Hacks for a Perfect Stew

• Sear the Beef: For extra flavour, consider searing the beef in a skillet before air frying. This step enhances the taste and adds depth to your dish.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Including fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving elevates your stew, adding brightness and freshness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste your stew before serving; you may want to adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs.
• Leftovers: Beef stew often tastes even better the next day, as the flavours continue to develop. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Cooking beef stew in an air fryer not only saves time but also retains the essential flavours that make this dish a favourite. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be prepared to serve a delicious, comforting stew that is sure to please!