In the realm of kitchen wizardry, the air fryer has emerged as a modern-day culinary hero. It promises to deliver the crispy, golden delights of deep frying without the guilt of excessive oil.
But as with any hero, there’s a kryptonite to avoid. For air fryer enthusiasts, that kryptonite comes from common mistakes that can turn a meal from fab to drab in minutes.
CHOICE kitchen expert Fiona Mair will discuss the top five air fryer faux pas that could sabotage your cooking and show you how to avoid them.
1. The Shake-Up Call
Have you ever bitten into a piece of air-fried food only to find the underside pale and undercooked? The culprit is often a lack of movement. Fiona Mair emphasises the importance of shaking or turning your food regularly.
‘Some air fryers will beep to remind you, but if yours doesn’t, set a timer to give the basket a good shake every five minutes,’ she advises. This simple action ensures even cooking and that coveted uniform crispiness.
2. The Crowding Conundrum
Loading up the air fryer basket to save time is tempting, but overcrowding is a cardinal sin in the air fryer bible. An overfilled basket impedes the hot air circulation that’s essential for cooking. The result? Limp is unevenly cooked food that’s more steamed than fried.
‘Think of your air fryer like a merry-go-round; there needs to be space for the air to dance around the food,’ Fiona explains. She suggests using the ‘chicken nugget capacity’ as a guide to avoid overfilling.
3. The Dishwasher Dilemma
While many air fryer baskets claim to be dishwasher safe, Fiona warns against this practice. ‘The harsh detergents and hot water can quickly degrade the non-stick surface,’ she cautions.
And it’s not just about preserving the basket’s integrity; damaged non-stick coatings can flake off at high temperatures, potentially contaminating your food. Instead, opt for hand washing with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to keep your air fryer in top condition.
4. The Cleaning Oversight
Unlike ovens, which can go months without a scrub, air fryers require cleaning after every use. Neglecting this can lead to unpleasant tastes, smoke, and even fire hazards. ‘Make sure to clean around the fan and inside the unit,’ Fiona advises.
‘Doing it while the unit is still warm can make the task easier.’ Some air fryers come with steam-cleaning functions, and while silicone liners can reduce splatter, they may also prevent oil from draining, affecting crispiness.
5. The Storage Snafu
Air fryers aren’t the most elegant of appliances, but relegating them to the back of a cupboard is a mistake. Their bulky and heavy nature means they can become ‘out of sight, out of mind,’ leading to less frequent use.
Fiona suggests keeping your air fryer on the countertop if space allows. ‘It’s all about accessibility. If it’s in front of you, you’re more likely to use it,’ she says. Plus, ensure it’s not too close to walls to avoid fire risks.
Remember, the air fryer is a tool that, when used correctly, can transform your cooking experience. By avoiding these pitfalls, you’ll be on your way to achieving air-fried perfection every time.
And for those who are embracing this new kitchen technology, these tips are especially crucial to ensure that your culinary adventures are both successful and safe.
We’re committed to providing our readers with the most reliable and practical advice. Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer aficionado or just starting, these expert tips from Fiona Mair will help you navigate the dos and don’ts for optimal results. So next time you’re about to whip up some air-fried treats, keep these secrets in mind, and you’ll be sure to impress yourself and your guests with your air-frying prowess.
Also read: Here’s what happens inside your air fryer while you cook!
