For those embracing a carnivore diet or exploring protein-sparing modified fasting (PSMF), finding exciting and palatable recipes can be a game-changer. The air fryer has emerged as a surprising yet effective tool for preparing succulent and flavorful meat dishes. These keto air fryer steak bites only require a couple of simple ingredients. When it comes to cooking steak …the beloved air fryer has entered the chat, and the result is the ultimate juicy and flavorful steak bites.
The Zero Carb Challenge and the Air Fryer Revelation
The pursuit of unique and diverse zero-carb recipes is essential to prevent boredom and maintain adherence to the diet. Recently, a challenge was accepted to try a zero-carb diet. Whether it be carnivore or fit into a protein-sparing modified fasting day, the goal was just to eat zero carbs. The air fryer has revolutionized the way steak is cooked, offering a quick, convenient, and healthy alternative to traditional methods.
Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
These Air Fryer Carnivore Steak Bites are drizzled with a delicious garlic sauce making this a great zero carb recipe. These keto air fryer steak bites only require a couple of simple ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.
- Beef: A boneless sirloin tip roast is recommended for making these air fryer carnivore steak bites.
- Bacon Fat: The rendered fat from bacon adds a smoky flavor to this zero-carb recipe. However, you can use tallow, butter or olive oil (although olive oil is NOT considered part of a carnivore diet as it is plant-based).
Air Fryer Carnivore Steak Bites Recipe
Quick and simple, these keto air fryer steak bites only take about 10 minutes, from start to finish. You can find the full recipe for these air fryer carnivore steak bites at the bottom of the post.
Ingredients:
- Boneless sirloin tip roast
- Bacon fat (or tallow/butter)
- Garlic powder
- Red pepper flakes
- Parsley (optional)
Instructions:
- Toss the steak pieces with the tallow.
- Mix the dry spices together and coat the steak in the seasoning.
- Preheat an air fryer for 5 minutes at 400ºF.
- While the steak cooks, melt the bacon fat (or tallow/butter) and mix in the garlic powder, red pepper, and parsley.
Achieving the Perfect Cook
The key to perfect air fryer steak bites is to avoid overcrowding the basket. Don’t over crowd the basket. This is one of the most important rules when using an air fryer. This ensures that each piece of steak cooks evenly and develops a beautiful sear. You can add or subtract air frying time depending on how you like your steak bites.
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Protein Sparing Modified Fasting (PSMF) Adaptation
To make these more into a protein sparing modified fasting air fryer recipe, you can omit the fat and make sure to use a lean cut of steak. The recipe can be easily adapted for those following a PSMF diet. By omitting the added fat and opting for a lean cut of steak, such as top sirloin filet (5g fat per 4 oz raw), round steak (7g fat per 4 oz raw), flank steak (9g fat per 4 oz raw), or skirt steak (14g fat per 4 oz raw), you can create a guilt-free and protein-packed meal. Note: Thinner cuts will cook faster.
The Importance of Resting
When meat is cooked, its juices move towards the outside. So, if you’re tempted to dig in immediately (who wouldn’t be?), your meat will end up dry and tough. IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THIS WAY. Allowing the steak bites to rest for a few minutes after cooking is crucial for retaining their moisture and tenderness.
Skillet Searing Alternative
Yep! Get a large skillet (cast iron if possible) with lots of surface area really hot before adding a little oil and the steak bites. Cook for 2-3 minutes before stirring to finish cooking, about 4-5 minutes total. For those who prefer a more traditional method, searing the steak bites in a hot skillet (cast iron if possible) can also yield excellent results.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes when using an air fryer is overcrowding the basket. This prevents proper air circulation and results in unevenly cooked food.
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