Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, transforming from simple fryers to versatile kitchen powerhouses. From KFC-style chicken to French Toast and donuts, I’ve cooked it all in my air fryer. But with great power comes great responsibility (and mistakes)! Here are six common air fryer blunders I wish I’d known sooner, along with their fixes.
1. Following Recipes to the Letter
– Air fryer recipe books and apps are great, but they don’t cover everything. Experiment with frozen foods at higher temps and adjust oven temps for other dishes.
– For stove-cooked dishes, find dedicated air fryer recipes and expect consistent browning and crispiness, not speedier cooking.
2. Skipping Preheating
– Preheating ensures even browning and crispiness. Don’t skip this crucial step, or your food won’t be as crisp or appetizing.
3. Not Adjusting for Size and Cut
– Different cuts of the same food need different cooking times. Thinner pieces can handle hotter, shorter blasts, while thicker cuts need lower, slower temps.
– Split food into evenly sized portions for consistent results.
4. Overfilling the Basket
– Overfilling hinders hot air circulation, leading to uneven browning and cooking. Fill your basket to no more than half its height for best results.
– Keep large items away from the heating element to prevent burning.
5. Neglecting Cleanup
– Regular cleaning keeps your air fryer performing at its best and prevents fire hazards. Wash the basket after every use to keep your meals fresh and delicious.
6. Using the Wrong Oil (Or None at All)
– Air fryers need oil for that crispy, golden coating. Use oils with high smoke points to avoid burnt food.
– Experiment with different amounts of oil to find your perfect balance between taste and health.
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