Spicy Air Fryer Steak Fingers with Dill Pickle Dip: A Flavorful Delight

Introduction

Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy, spicy steak finger, dipped in a creamy, tangy dill pickle sauce. This Spicy Air Fryer Steak Fingers recipe is not only a taste sensation but also a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy. This dish is perfect for game day snacks, a quick dinner, or anytime you’re craving something a bit different. Let’s explore the step-by-step process of making these spicy steak fingers and the accompanying dill pickle dip, along with some handy tips and answers to common questions.

Ingredients

For the Finger Steaks

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1-1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/6 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 large eggs
• 1.5 cups almond flour
• Olive oil spray

For the Dill Pickle Dip

• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 4 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
• 2 tablespoons pickle juice

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dill Pickle Dip

In a bowl, combine the sour cream, milk, finely chopped dill pickles, and pickle juice. Mix well until smooth. Set aside in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the steak fingers.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak

Cut the cube steak into strips, approximately 1 inch wide. In a bowl, mix the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Divide this spice mixture into two equal parts.

Step 3: Set Up Breading Stations

In a separate bowl, combine half of the spice mixture with half of the almond flour. This will be your seasoned flour mixture. Place the remaining almond flour in another dish, and in a third bowl, whisk the eggs.

Step 4: Bread the Steak Fingers

First, coat each steak strip in the dry seasoning mixture. Then, dip them into the whisked eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Next, coat them in the seasoned almond flour mixture. Finally, give them a second coating in the plain almond flour for an extra crispy finish.

Step 5: Air Fry the Steak Fingers

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius). Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated steak fingers in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Lightly spray the tops of the steak fingers with more olive oil spray.

Step 6: Cook the Steak Fingers

Cook the steak fingers in the air fryer for 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The steak fingers should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a juicy and tender interior.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the spicy steak fingers hot, with the dill pickle dip on the side. Enjoy the combination of spicy, crispy steak fingers with the cool, tangy dip.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 2

• Calories: 911
• Total Fat: 49.6g (64% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 12.3g (4% Daily Value)
• Protein: 100.4g

Tips for Perfect Steak Fingers

Choosing the Right Steak

Cube steak is ideal for this recipe because it’s tender and cooks quickly. If you can’t find cube steak, you can use sirloin or flank steak, but make sure to tenderize it before cutting into strips.

Spicing It Up

Adjust the level of cayenne pepper to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For an extra kick, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the spice mix.

Double Coating for Extra Crunch

The double coating of almond flour ensures a crispy exterior. Almond flour is also a great gluten-free option that adds a nice nutty flavor to the steak fingers.

Air Fryer Tips

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the steak fingers in batches if necessary to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy. Also, remember to flip them halfway through cooking for even browning.

Perfect Dill Pickle Dip

The dill pickle dip is the perfect accompaniment to these spicy steak fingers. Use fresh dill pickles for the best flavor, and adjust the amount of pickle juice to achieve your desired consistency.

Spicy Air Fryer Steak Fingers with Dill Pickle Dip

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 16 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Servings 2 people

Calories 911 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound cube steak
• 1-1/2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/6 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 large eggs
• 1.5 cup of almond flour
• Olive oil spray
• For the dill pickle dip:
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 4 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
• 2 tablespoons pickle juice

Instructions

 

• Mix dip pickle dip ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
• Cut the steak into strips and set aside in a bowl. Mix sugar, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, garlic
• powder, and black pepper.
• Combine half of this spice with half of the almond flour in a separate bowl.
• Add remaining almond flour to a dish.
• Then whisk the egg into a separate bowl.
• First, put the strips,dry seasoning, then add in the almond flour mix, the plain almond flour.
• Once all strips are coated, put them into an air fryer basket greased with oil spray.
• Cook for 8 minutes, at 400 degrees F or 204 degrees C, flipping halfway through.
• Once cooked, serve with dill pickle sauce.

Notes

Prep: 16 Minutes | Cook Time: 8Minutes | Makes: 2 Servings

Keyword Spicy Air Fryer Steak Fingers

Cultural Background

Steak Fingers: An American Classic

Steak fingers are a classic American dish, often associated with Southern cuisine. Traditionally deep-fried, they are a popular comfort food served with a variety of dipping sauces. This air-fried version offers a healthier take on the classic, without sacrificing flavor or texture.

The Versatility of Pickles

Pickles have been a staple in various cuisines around the world for centuries. They add a unique tanginess and crunch to many dishes. The dill pickle dip in this recipe is a nod to the classic combination of fried foods and tangy sauces, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour for breading?

Yes, you can use other types of flour, such as all-purpose flour, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes. Each will give a slightly different texture and flavor to the steak fingers.

2. How do I store and reheat leftover steak fingers?

Store leftover steak fingers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (176 degrees Celsius) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

3. Can I make the dill pickle dip ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dill pickle dip up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together even more, making the dip taste better.

4. What can I serve with steak fingers besides dill pickle dip?

Steak fingers are versatile and can be served with various dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. They also pair well with sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a simple green salad.

5. Can I use the same recipe with other types of meat?

Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted for chicken tenders, pork strips, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, ensuring the meat is cooked through and crispy.

Conclusion

Spicy Air Fryer Steak Fingers with Dill Pickle Dip are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried steak fingers. The combination of the spicy, crispy exterior and the tangy, creamy dip creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. With the tips and answers to common questions provided, you’ll be able to make these steak fingers perfectly every time. Gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy this flavorful and satisfying meal.