The Air Fryer In 10 Questions

Wondering how to get the most out of your air fryer? We answer the 10 most frequently asked questions about using this essential kitchen appliance to easily cook crispy dishes.

How does the air fryer work?

The device combines a heating element with a powerful fan that circulates hot air quickly around the food. The result: crispy cooking, with little or no oil.

What is the difference from a conventional oven?

The main difference is in the airflow. While a conventional oven heats up statically, the air fryer uses ultra-fast convection in a small space. The conventional oven is larger and is better suited for larger dishes.

What foods can be cooked in an air fryer?

Most foods, fresh or frozen, cook very well in the hot air: fries, croquettes, vegetables, meat, fish and even some desserts.

Foods to avoid:

liquid sauces and batters (such as tempura) that may leak;
light vegetables (spinach, kale) that can be sucked up by the fan;
cheese alone, with the exception of halloumi and breaded cheeses;
rice and pasta (unless they are already cooked).

Should oil be added?

For most frozen foods, oil is unnecessary. For fresh products, such as homemade fries or vegetables, a tablespoon is enough. Use a brush or spray bottle to distribute the oil evenly.

How do you clean the air fryer properly?

After each use, soak the baskets for a few minutes in hot, soapy water: the residue will come off more easily. Unplug the unit and allow it to cool before cleaning the interior walls with a soft, damp cloth. In any case, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Baking soda to the rescue

To remove grease from the air fryer basket, mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with a little hot water to make a paste. Apply to the areas to be treated, leave on for 15 minutes, then rub gently with a non-abrasive sponge.

Is it necessary to preheat the appliance?

It all depends on the model and the cooked dish. Some recipes call for preheating to maximize crispness. As it is a compact device, the temperature rises quickly. The best thing to do is to experiment with your own air fryer to see what works best.

Is air fryer cooking healthy?

Yes, because it uses up to 90% less oil than a traditional fryer, which reduces calorie and saturated fat intake. However, to limit the formation of acrylamide (a toxic compound), it is recommended not to exceed a temperature of 350°F (175°C) for starchy foods.

Can you bake eggs or cake?

Absolutely! Hard-boiled, runny or boiled eggs: everything is possible by adding a little water to the basket and preheating the appliance. For cakes, it is also recommended to preheat and use silicone or non-stick metal moulds adapted to the size of the basket.

Tip: Simple recipes (pound cake, muffins, yogurt cake) usually yield better results than very airy or delicate cakes.

Can you use aluminum foil or parchment paper?

Avoid aluminum foil: it blocks air circulation and can interfere with cooking or even damage the appliance. Choose perforated parchment paper, specially designed for the air fryer. It allows air to pass through and makes cleaning easier.

Caution: Never place paper alone in the basket. Without food to weigh it down, it can lift, come into contact with the heating element and ignite.

Why do you have to shake the basket halfway through cooking?

This is a key step for even cooking. Shaking the basket helps redistribute the heat and prevents food from sticking or sticking to the centre.