Discover recipes with the air fryer
Air fryers are an increasingly popular appliance, as they allow you to cook food more healthily and with less oil. However, there are some questions that may arise when first using this appliance. In this section, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about air fryers.
FAQ
Can I use baking paper in the air fryer?
Answer: Yes, baking paper can be used in the air fryer. However, it is important to use food grade baking paper that is certified for use in the microwave oven. Standard baking paper may not be able to withstand the high temperatures of the air fryer and may burn or warp.
Can I use tin foil (aluminum foil) in the air fryer?
Answer: No, it is not recommended to use tin foil (aluminum) in the air fryer. Tin foil can release aluminum particles into the food during cooking, which can be harmful to your health. In addition, tin foil can prevent air circulation from occurring evenly, causing the food to cook unevenly.
Can I use silicone pans in the air fryer?
Answer: Yes, silicone baking pans can be used in the air fryer. Silicone pans are resistant to high temperatures and do not release toxic chemicals into the food.
What pans can I use in the air fryer?
Answer: In general, you can use any baking pan that is resistant to high temperatures and has a diameter less than or equal to that of the air fryer basket. Some air fryers have a basket with a non-stick coating, which allows you to cook food directly on the basket without the need to use baking pans.
Do I need to perform any special procedures when first using it?
Answer: Yes, it is advisable to carry out a cleaning procedure of the basket and the condensation collection basket before the first use. To do so, simply wash the two parts with warm water and soap.
Can I cook foods that are still frozen in air fryers?
Answer: Yes, you can cook food that is still frozen in air fryers. However, it is important to increase the cooking time by about 50%. Also, it is advisable to start cooking at a lower temperature and increase it gradually.
Do air fryers consume a lot of energy? Are there differences in utility bills?
Answer: The air fryers consume less energy than a conventional oven. However, consumption depends on several factors, including air fryer power, temperature, and cooking time. In general, a 1500-watt air fryer consumes about 0.75 kilowatt-hour for a 30-minute cooking cycle.
Air fryer makes smoke, what to do?
Answer: If the air fryer makes smoke, it may be burning the food or the temperature is too high. In this case, you need to reduce the temperature or stop cooking.
Should I add oil to the inside of the air fryer?
Answer: No, it is not necessary to add oil inside the air fryer. The air fryer uses a stream of hot air to cook the food; therefore, there is no need to add oil to achieve even, crispy cooking.
Should the air fryer be preheated?
Answer: Most air fryers do not need to be preheated. However, some models have a preset program for preheating. If your model does not have such a function, you can do it manually: set your air fryer to 200°C for 3 minutes.
In the air fryer, should the foods be turned over?
Answer: It depends on the type of air fryer and the type of food being prepared. In drawer air fryers, where the heat comes from the heating element at the top, it is advisable to turn or stir the food several times during cooking. This will help ensure even cooking and a crispier result. In basket air fryers, where the heat comes from a heating element located at the bottom, it is less necessary to turn the food. However, if large or irregularly shaped foods are being prepared, it may be useful to turn the food once during cooking. In general, it is always best to check the food during cooking and turn it if necessary.
Where is it best to put the air fryer?
Answer: The air fryer should be placed on a flat, stable surface in a place away from heat sources. It is important to leave a clearance of at least 10 cm around the air fryer to allow proper air circulation. It is preferable to place the air fryer in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
How much does the air fryer consume compared to a deep fryer?
Answer: The energy consumption of the air fryer depends on several factors, including the power of the fryer, the set temperature and the cooking time. In general, the air fryer consumes less energy than the conventional fryer. A test conducted by the German Institute of Food Technology (DIL) showed that the air fryer consumes about 70% less energy than traditional frying.
How often should I clean the air fryer?
Answer: The air fryer should be cleaned after each use. To clean the basket, you can use warm water and soap. To clean the outside of the fryer, you can use a damp cloth. It is important not to use harsh or abrasive products to clean the air fryer, as they may damage the surfaces.
