Air fryers are fantastic contemporary innovation that have surged in popularity over recent years. Celebrated for offering a healthier option to deep frying and consuming less energy than a conventional oven, these multi-purpose devices have been used for everything from baking to preparing chips.
Nevertheless, there are particular items that should never be put into an air fryer, no matter how appealing it might seem. These can present a fire hazard or result in permanent damage to the device. Unlike conventional deep fat fryers, air fryers use convection heat that circulates hot air to prepare the food, comparable to a fan oven, reports Cornwall Live.
This method crisps the outside of the food through a chemical process called the Maillard reaction. However, if you’re eager to explore what you can create in this clever device, there are some things that must be steered clear of.
1. Foods with hearty sauce
First and foremost, anything with a substantial sauce, such as spaghetti bolognese or chilli con carne, is off limits. This is because the liquid could be propelled by the hot air, spraying the inside of the fryer which can be both hazardous and untidy.
Rather, these kinds of foods are more appropriate for being prepared low and slow in a slow cooker, or on the hob.
2. Wet battered items
Likewise, wet battered items are unsuitable for an air fryer. As there isn’t any hot oil in the basket, the batter will drip all over and this puddle of batter could cause harm to the fryer.
If you’re looking to achieve a similar crunch on air-fried foods, try using a dry batter made with flour and seasoning. This should crisp up beautifully in the fryer.
3. Popcorn
You may be tempted to use your air fryer for popcorn during a cosy night in – but this would be a grave error. Most fryers fail to reach the required temperature to pop the kernels, and there’s also the danger of kernels becoming lodged in the element, potentially causing it to short circuit and become a fire hazard.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli is another vegetable that doesn’t do well in an air fryer, as the appliance tends to dry it out, leaving it with a tough and bitter flavour. For a tasty side dish, try roasting your broccoli in the oven instead for a wonderfully crispy and delicious result.
5. Pasta and rice
Pasta and rice are also unsuitable for an air fryer as both require boiling beforehand. However, if you’ve prepared a pasta bake, you can place it in an oven-safe dish inside the fryer to crisp up the top or reheat it without having to resort to a microwave.
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