Top Tips for using an Air Fryer
The air fryer has become every kitchen's must-have appliance. Here are some top tips for getting the most out of your air fryer.
19/05/2018
The air fryer has become a must-have appliance in many modern kitchens, especially those looking towards a healthier lifestyle. As someone who is permanently on a high-cholesterol diet, many of my 'fried' meals are done in the air fryer. You have the taste and texture of fried foods without the oil!
With the increasing popularity of this appliance, and it's prominence in many homes, we decided to put together a list of our top tips for getting the most out of your air fryer:
1. Buy the right size
There are two different sizes of air fryer that you can buy. If you only cook for two, the smaller unit will be fine, but do buy the larger unit for family meals.
2. Location, location, location!
Allow plenty of space around the air fryer for air circulation - and you need to be able to pull out the basket with ease.
3. Preheat before use
Switch on the air fryer and let it warm up to required temperature before you pop your foods in the basket.
4. Best cooking method
Use oil sparingly when using the air fryer - a little goes a long way.
For healthier meals, fry all your foods in low-fat olive oil. Adding a small dash of oil will also crisp up crumbed foods and prevent soggy vegetables.
Using a light oil also allows you to use seasoning salts and herbs to flavour. The principle of air frying uses hot air to cook, so you want seasoning to stay on the food. Phillips recommend olive oil and sunflower oil to enhance taste and add crispiness.
5. Cook from frozen
Frozen foods are perfect for the air fryer, and vegetables are crisp and crunchy if you cook from frozen and not raw. Raw veggies tend to get a bit soggy when cooked in the air fryer.
6. Don't overload the basket
If you need to cook a large family meal using only the air fryer - cook in batches. If you put too much food into the air fryer at one time, you will find that food doesn't cook properly.
7. Clean regularly
If you start to notice smoke from the air fryer, you need to clean out the oil pan. You should clean the basket and tray after every use or at the very least, after two or three uses.
Cleaning the basket and oil pan is easy using warm, soapy water. Avoid using a scouring pad as this will scratch the finish. And you can extend the life of the parts by hand washing as opposed to washing in the dishwasher.
Fill the pan and basket with hot, soapy water and let sit for about 30 minutes. A soft brush can be used to remove any stubborn grease on the basket, but only give a gently scrubbing. After cleaning, wipe dry with a microfibre cloth.
