2023-09-24 16:00:48
Using an air fryer is a healthier approach to frying. Discover 10 common errors and their solutions.
Last update: September 24, 2023
Air fryers have transformed the way we prepare fried foods by reducing oil and improving healthiness.
Although they seem easy to use, There are certain pitfalls that are best avoided to ensure excellent dishes and prevent incidents.. Below, we detail the 10 most common mistakes when handling these portable ovens and the ways to avoid them.
1. Do not preheat the air fryer
Using the air fryer means skipping preheating before placing the food. Failure to do so may result in uneven cooking, food sticking to the basket, or a soft result instead of that desired crispy texture..
Once this is done, the food is arranged evenly, in a single layer, avoiding overload. Food must be checked, shaken or turned to ensure uniform cooking.
Remembering these small details will make our dishes come out perfect and with it, make the most of the advantages of this appliance.
2. Using too much or too little oil
If we use too much oil, Food will be greasy and lose its crunchy texture.. Additionally, excess oil can drip onto the heating element and cause smoke or even fire.
Ideally, use a spray or brush to apply a thin, even layer of oil on food.or use foods that already have some natural fat, such as chicken or salmon.
Opt for foods with natural fats, such as chicken with skin or salmon, can be beneficial. These release their fat when cooking, helping to achieve that golden, flavorful texture without the need for additional oils.
It is also important to remember that the choice of oil type can influence the final result as avocado or canola oilthey are more suitable for air fryers.
3. Not cleaning the air fryer after each use
Food and oil residue that accumulates in the basket and inside the fryer can cause bad odors, bacteria and fungi.
The accumulation of these residues can also cause blockages in the air circulation system, rreducing cooking efficiency and increasing the energy consumption of the device.
After each use, clean the basket and the interior of the fryer with hot water and mild soap. A soft brush can be helpful to reach those difficult corners and crannies..
Some modern fryers even feature removable, dishwasher-safe parts, making this process even easier.
4. Put frozen foods directly into the fryer
This can cause food to cook on the outside but be raw on the inside, or to release too much water and soak the rest of the ingredients.
You have to defrost the food before putting it in the fryer, or use specific foods for air fryers that are already pre-cooked and frozen.
Some frozen foods They can release liquids that can cause smoke or even hot grease splatters.which can be dangerous and affect the performance of the fryer in the long term.
If time is a factor, There are options on the market for air fryers that already come pre-cooked and frozen.. These products are designed to be cooked and deliver results in terms of flavor and texture.
5. Do not shake or turn food during cooking
An uneven cooking result can be caused by several factors, such as the distribution of the food in the basket, the selected temperature or even the nature of the food itself.
When food is cooked unevenly, It not only affects its presentation, but also its flavor and texture.reducing the overall quality of the dish.
Not shaking or turning food not only ensures even cooking, but also allows hot air to optimally circulate around each piece.
You have to follow the instructions of each recipe and adapt the times and temperatures depending on the type and quantity of food we are cooking.
6. Using inappropriate containers or accessories
Containers or accessories can not only become deformed or damaged due to heatbut they can also release toxins or unwanted components that contaminate food.
They are made with materials such as stainless steel or silicone suitable for high temperatures.which are not only safe for cooking, but also make cleaning easy.
By investing in these suitable accessories, we not only ensure the safety and durability of our utensils, but also we make sure to obtain the best results in our dishesmaximizing the advantages that the air fryer can offer.
You should always review the guidelines given by the manufacturer or verify the characteristics of the product, to confirm they fit the device.
7. Not adjusting the time and temperature according to the type and amount of food
You have to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a guide or recipe for air fryers.and adapt the time and temperature according to the size, thickness and amount of food we are going to cook.
When considering the variety of foods, from vegetables to meats and desserts, each one has a different structure and composition. For example, a piece of chicken will need more time and a different temperature than slices of zucchini.
Cooking in smaller batches can ensure more even air circulation. Overloading the fryer can result in undercooked food or an unwanted texture.
Nowadays, there are apps and websites dedicated to cooking with air fryers, offering real-time tips and adjustments to suit different ingredients.
8. Not leaving enough space between the fryer and other objects
The air fryer generates a lot of heat and can burn or melt objects near it, such as tablecloths, curtains, utensils, or appliances. At least 10 centimeters of space should be left between the fryer and any other object.place it on a flat, stable and heat-resistant surface.
Ventilation around the air fryer should be considered.. The equipment needs space to release heat and maintain adequate air circulation.
The fryer should be avoided in a traffic area or in places where there is a lot of activity, to minimize the risk of accidents. A fall or collision can spill hot contents and cause injury.
Make sure the cord is out of reach and that the fryer is in a place where it cannot be touched or manipulated. Safety in the kitchen is paramountand with a device as powerful as the air fryer, caution never hurts.
9. Not respecting the maximum capacity of the fryer
If we overload the basket with too much food, we prevent air from circulating and food from cooking evenly.
By exceeding the capacity, you limit airflow and risk food sticking, which makes subsequent cleaning difficult and can damage the integrity of the appliance.
When cooking larger portions, Moisture can make food soggy instead of crispy. This is relevant for those foods that release more water, such as vegetables.
Respecting the maximum capacity of the fryer not only guarantees better culinary results, but also extends the useful life of the equipment. Overloading the fryer can wear out the motor.
To get the most out of the air fryer and enjoy food, you must be aware. It is always better to cook in batches than risk unsatisfactory results and possible equipment damage.
10. Not monitoring the cooking of food
Although the air fryer has a timer that turns off when the programmed time is up, The cooking of food is monitored to prevent it from overcooking or losing its moisture..
Each food has its characteristics. For example, while French fries may need time to reach a crispy texture, pieces of chicken or fish may require adjustments in time and temperature.
Although the timer is a useful tool, it does not always reflect the variables that may arise during cooking. Factors such as the amount of food, its size, and even altitude can influence the time needed to cook.
The color and texture are indicative of the cooking process. Being attentive allows us to make adjustments on the fly or add more time if we have not yet reached the desired point..
When present during cooking, a burnt or overly intense smell may be a sign that intervention is necessary.
Avoid these mistakes with your air fryer
Even though air fryers are kitchen tools that always benefit from the chef’s attention and personal touch to achieve results, You should keep in mind some common mistakes when using them.
This way, you can enjoy delicious, healthy and crispy dishes using your air fryer, without worries or complications. Why wait any longer to find out for yourself?
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