The air fryer has become a global kitchen favorite, making meals crispier, easier, and often healthier.
But while it’s versatile, not every food belongs in it. Here are some things you should know before turning yours on.
Wet-battered foods
Fish or veggies dipped in wet batter, like tempura or beer-battered recipes, don’t work well.
Without hot oil to set the coating, the batter drips off and leaves a sticky mess instead of a crispy finish.
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Uncoated cheese
Plain cheese melts too quickly and spreads before it browns, leaving a gooey mess inside the basket.
Only air fry cheese when it’s coated or wrapped, like mozzarella sticks or stuffed peppers.
Lightweight leafy greens
Delicate greens like spinach or arugula get blown around by the air fryer’s fan and cook unevenly.
Heavier greens such as kale, especially when tossed in a little oil, crisp up beautifully instead.
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Popcorn
Although popcorn is a classic snack, it doesn’t pop properly in an air fryer.
The appliance doesn’t stay hot enough for even popping, leading to scorched kernels and half-popped corn.
Chicken thighs
On the other hand, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are a perfect match.
They crisp up on the outside while staying juicy inside. Season simply with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for a foolproof dinner.
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Salmon filets
Don’t like the lingering smell of stovetop salmon? The air fryer is a game-changer.
Brush filets with Dijon and honey, and in under 10 minutes you’ll have golden, flaky fish without the odor.
Eggs
Forget boiling water, your air fryer can make perfect hard-boiled eggs.
Cook them at low heat for around 15 minutes, and you’ll get creamy yolks and shells that peel with ease.
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Chickpeas
Roasted chickpeas are a crunchy, protein-packed snack. The air fryer makes them evenly crisp as long as you dry them well before cooking.
They’re also a great salad topping.
Baked goods
Surprisingly, you can bake in your air fryer. Muffins, cookies, and even small cakes come out golden and fluffy.
Think of it as a compact convection oven, ideal for quick, small-batch baking.
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Nuts and seeds
A handful of freshly roasted nuts or seeds is easy to make in minutes. Toss them with a little oil and salt, and air fry on low heat to avoid burning.
The result is an evenly roasted, crunchy snack.
Frozen dumplings
No need for steaming or pan-frying, frozen dumplings are delicious straight from the air fryer.
Lightly coat them with oil, and within 10 minutes they’ll have the same crispy bottoms you’d expect from a skillet.
This article is based on information from Health.com.