Tired of complicated recipes and long cooking times? Craving a delicious and healthy meal that's ready in minutes? Then this air fryer picanha recipe is your answer! Picanha, also known as rump cap steak, is a flavorful cut of beef that boasts incredible marbling, resulting in a juicy and tender final product. This recipe delivers all that amazing picanha flavor with the convenience of the air fryer – achieving perfectly crisp edges and a melt-in-your-mouth interior in a fraction of the time it would take on the grill or in a pan. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs Picanha steak, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
Preparing the Picanha:
- Pat the steak dry: Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the picanha steak dry. This crucial step helps achieve a beautiful sear.
- Season generously: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, and oregano. Rub this mixture all over the picanha, ensuring it's evenly coated. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
- Let it rest (optional): For optimal flavor, let the seasoned picanha rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Air Frying the Picanha:
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for at least 5 minutes.
- Air fry: Place the picanha steak in the air fryer basket, making sure it's not overcrowded. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time based on your desired level of doneness and the thickness of your steak. A meat thermometer is your best friend here! For medium, aim for an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C). For medium-well, go for 150-155°F (66-68°C).
- Rest and slice: Once cooked, remove the picanha from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
Tips for Perfect Picanha:
- Use a meat thermometer: Don't rely solely on cooking time. A meat thermometer ensures your picanha reaches your preferred level of doneness.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. If your picanha is large, you may need to cook it in batches.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Spicy Picanha: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Herb Picanha: Add fresh minced garlic and herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning for a more aromatic flavor.
- Citrus Picanha: Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice before serving for a refreshing twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is based on a 1.5 lb picanha steak serving size and will vary depending on the exact cut and seasoning used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
This air fryer picanha recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this flavorful cut of beef. The air fryer delivers perfectly crispy edges and a juicy interior, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Enjoy!