How to Cook Halibut in Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide June 2023 El Reno Ok

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Halibut is a delicious fish that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy addition to your diet. If you’re looking for a healthier way to cook your halibut, using an air fryer is a great option. Air fryers use hot air to cook food, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to cook halibut in an air fryer with a crispy exterior and moist interior.

1. Preparing the Halibut

The first step in cooking halibut in an air fryer is preparing the fish. Choosing the right cut and preparing it correctly will ensure even cooking and a delicious end product.

Choosing the Right Cut of Halibut

When selecting your halibut, look for a firm, white-fleshed fish that is fresh and has no fishy odor. Halibut fillets are the most commonly used cut for air frying. The fillets should be around 1 inch thick and weigh around 6-8 ounces.

Cleaning and Seasoning the Fish

Before cooking, rinse the halibut fillets with cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, and other preferred spices. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and to prevent sticking.

Letting the Fish Sit at Room Temperature Before Cooking

Allow the seasoned halibut fillets to sit at room temperature for around 10 minutes before cooking. This will help to ensure even cooking and prevent the fish from being too cold when it’s placed in the air fryer.

2. Preparing the Air Fryer

Once you have prepared the halibut, it’s time to prepare the air fryer. Properly preheating the air fryer and choosing the right temperature and cooking time for the halibut are crucial to achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Properly Preheating the Air Fryer

Before cooking, preheat the air fryer to 375°F for around 5-10 minutes. This will ensure that the air fryer is at the right temperature and that the halibut cooks evenly.

Choosing the Right Temperature and Cooking Time for Halibut

Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook the halibut fillets for 8-10 minutes, depending on the thickness of the fillets. Flip the fillets halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The halibut is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

3. Cooking the Halibut

Now that the halibut and air fryer are prepared, it’s time to cook the fish. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked halibut every time.

Step-by-Step Guide on how to cook halibut in air fryer

Place the seasoned halibut fillets in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping.
Set the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping the fillets halfway through.
Check the internal temperature of the halibut with a meat thermometer. The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.
Remove the halibut from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips on How to Achieve a Crispy Exterior and Moist Interior

To achieve a crispy exterior and moist interior, follow these tips:

Use a light coating of olive oil on the halibut fillets before seasoning to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Make sure the air fryer is preheated before adding the halibut.
Flip the fillets halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this will prevent the halibut from cooking evenly.
Let the halibut rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its moisture.

How to Check for Doneness

The most accurate way to check for doneness is by using a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the halibut fillet, making sure not to touch the bone. The fish is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F. If you don’t have a meat thermometer, you can also check for doneness by flaking the fish with a fork. The halibut should be opaque and easily flake apart.