Food experts have shared what items they would never cook in an air fryer because the results could be disastrous and in some cases pose a safety hazard.
For many people the air fryer has replaced traditional cooking methods and is the go-to way to prepare popular meals. But there are some foods you should definitely keep away from the nifty gadget.
Since the introduction of the air fryer, households in the UK have realised there is a healthier and often easier way to cook many popular dishes. The nifty gadget uses rapid air technology to circulate hot air around food, cooking it quickly and evenly. This can produce a fried finish without using the oil associated with deep frying, therefore making it a healthier way to prepare food such as chips and roast potatoes.
The appliances also heat up quickly and are often more energy efficient than a lot of ovens in cookers, saving money as well as time. Chefs and home cooks have adapted many recipes for preparation in the air fryer – even the Sunday roast can be whipped up in one.
However there are some dishes you should never cook in an air fryer, according to the experts at the BBC ’s Good Food. It has listed particular recipes and items that simply don’t work and some which can even be dangerous or damaging to prepare in our new favourite toy. Here are the recipes and food it says you shouldn’t cook in an air fryer:
Popcorn
A favourite snack for munching on while watching a movie from the sofa or as a sweet or salty treat, popcorn can’t be prepared in an air fryer. This is because most models won’t reach a high enough temperature for the kernels to pop. The small hard pips can also get stuck in the heating element which can create a fire hazard. Instead use a microwave or the hob to prepare your popcorn.
Food with wet batter
Cooking food that uses a wet batter coating, such as fish or chicken should be avoided. The batter needs more hot oil than is used in an air fryer to set it and form the crunchy texture. You will likely just end up with a messy puddle of batter which could burn the base of the basket. However, fried foods that have been frozen beforehand are ok because the wet batter sets during the freezing process. Chicken with any dry coating such as seasoning and flour is also totally fine.
Dishes with a sauce
Midweek favourites such as chilli con carne, bolognese or stews are a no-go for safety reasons. This is due to the hot air circulating inside the appliance which can cause hot liquids to splatter, posing a burning risk, as well as making a mess. Instead use a slow cooker, which are also very energy efficient appliances to run.
Pasta
For the same reason as mentioned above, any pasta dishes with a lot of sauce shouldn’t be cooked in the air fryer. But pasta bakes are ok as they don’t have as much liquid.
Rice
Like pasta, rice needs to be boiled in water to cook and the air fryer isn’t made for boiling or steaming food. One expert suggests cooking rice on the hob first before adding to the air fryer for a few minutes if you want a crispy finish.
Broccoli
Although some vegetables such as brussel sprouts can retain water and crisp up well in the gadgets, broccoli isn’t one of them. It can dry out and become chewy and bitter so stick to steaming or roasting in the oven.
Hard-boiled eggs
While it’s possible to cook the perfect poached egg in an air fryer, the hard-boiled variety can end up “chewy and rubbery”, says the BBC. If you’re determined to give it a go they recommend using medium-sized eggs straight from the fridge at 125C for 10 minutes.
Toast
Toast is another snack that doesn’t really work in the air fryer. “It will just move around and not really cook properly.” says the guide. Stick to the traditional toaster or grill for the best results.
Have you had any air fryer disasters? Let us know in the comments below.