12 Mistakes to Avoid When Using an Air Fryer

TLDRLearn the top 12 mistakes to avoid when using an air fryer to get the best results. From investing in a good air fryer to not overcrowding the basket, not using oil correctly, not rotating or shaking the food, not checking the food's temperature, not giving enough air circulation, cooking fatty foods incorrectly, not cleaning the air fryer, not adapting recipes, not using the air fryer to reheat leftovers, and not using helpful tools.

Key insights

Invest in a good air fryer with excellent quality to prevent subpar results and peeling off of non-stick coating.

📏Do not overcrowd the basket; fill it no more than halfway to allow hot air circulation for even cooking.

🔥Learn to use oil correctly for a crispy finish; use a light coating of oil for breaded foods, and consider using water for fatty foods to prevent smoking.

🔄Remember to rotate or shake the food halfway through cooking for even browning and crispiness.

🌡️Invest in a digital meat thermometer to ensure the meat is cooked to perfection without undercooking or overcooking.

Q&A

Can I use a cheap air fryer?

It's best to invest in a good air fryer with excellent quality to avoid subpar results and peeling of the non-stick coating.

How much oil should I use?

As a general rule, use 1-2 teaspoons of oil for breaded foods to achieve a crispy finish. Adjust the amount based on your preference.

Do I need to rotate the food during cooking?

Yes, it is recommended to rotate or shake the food halfway through cooking for even browning and crispiness.

Can I cook wet batter in the air fryer?

No, air fryers are not suitable for foods with wet batter. Instead, use dry breading for crispy results.

How should I clean the air fryer?

Clean the air fryer after each use by washing the basket with hot soapy water. Avoid using pressurized sprayers and canned sprays with propellants.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction to the top 12 mistakes to avoid when using an air fryer.

01:45Mistake 1: Not investing in a good air fryer with excellent quality.

03:24Mistake 2: Overcrowding the basket.

05:08Mistake 3: Using oil incorrectly.

06:54Mistake 4: Not rotating or shaking the food halfway through cooking.

07:53Mistake 5: Not checking the food's temperature.

09:07Mistake 6: Not giving enough air circulation.

09:59Mistake 7: Cooking fatty foods incorrectly.

11:34Mistake 8: Cooking in the air fryer without cleaning it first.

12:31Mistake 9: Cooking wet food without patting it dry first.

13:38Mistake 10: Not adapting recipes for the air fryer.

14:47Mistake 11: Not using the air fryer to reheat leftovers.

15:59Mistake 12: Not using helpful tools like foil sling and parchment paper with holes.