Coffee-Crusted Steak
Meal-Prep
Finely ground dark roast coffee, brown sugar, and smoked paprika create a deeply savory crust on this steak. It's a unique alternative to traditional seasoning. Get the recipe and air frying instructions here.
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 steaks (ribeye or NY strip, 1 to 1.5 inches thick)
- 1 tablespoon finely ground coffee (dark roast, not flavored)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne
- 1 tablespoon oil
Season it upThis variation is self-seasoned
Steps
- 01Mix the coffee, brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne in a small bowl.
- 02Bring the steak to room temperature (30 minutes out of the fridge).
- 03Pat dry. Rub with oil, then press the coffee mixture firmly onto all sides.
- 04Ready for the air fryer.
- 05Rest for 5 minutes.
The coffee doesn't make the steak taste like coffee. It creates a deeply savory, almost smoky bark that's similar to what you'd get from a 12-hour smoked brisket, in 12 minutes. The brown sugar caramelizes, the coffee adds bitter depth, and the smoked paprika ties everything together. Use finely ground, not coarse. Coarse coffee grounds feel gritty.
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How to Air Fry It
- 01Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- 02Season the steak with the Simple Salt & Pepper or Herbed Garlic Butter seasoning and place it in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- 03Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6 minutes.
- 04Flip the steak and cook for an additional 6 minutes.
- 05Remove from the air fryer, check for your preferred doneness, and serve immediately.
Recipe Notes
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Season it up
Pairs well
Meal Prep
Stores 3 days refrigerated. Reheat at 325°F (165°C) for 3-4 minutes. Slice before reheating for more even warming.
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