Air fryers have become a household staple in many kitchens, replacing slow cookers and even ovens in some cases. With their promise of healthier, lower-oil cooking, they have rapidly gained popularity. However, experts caution that while air fryers can be a great tool, they are not suitable for all types of cooking.
The Air Fryer Appeal
Air fryers work by circulating hot air at high speeds to cook food, giving it a crispy texture similar to deep frying but with little or no oil. This makes them a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, allowing people to enjoy crispy foods without the added fat. However, culinary experts believe there are certain foods that don’t fare well in air fryers.
Foods You Shouldn’t Cook in an Air Fryer
While air fryers excel at cooking smaller, quicker items, some foods don’t work well in this appliance. For instance, broccoli, which needs moisture to retain its flavor, often turns out bland in an air fryer. But it’s not just vegetables that cause problems. Popcorn is another food that should be avoided in an air fryer, as the kernels can get stuck in the heating elements, potentially causing a fire hazard.
Additionally, wet batter, such as the crispy coating on fried chicken, doesn’t perform well in an air fryer. The temperature in an air fryer might not be high enough for the batter to set properly, resulting in a soggy, disappointing meal.
Energy and Cost Considerations
Air fryers are often hailed as more energy-efficient than traditional ovens, but experts warn that relying on them for all types of cooking might not always be cost-effective. Martin Lewis, a money-saving expert, points out that using an air fryer multiple times to cook different items can use up more energy than simply using a conventional oven. “If you’re going to have to use your air fryer 15 different times for different items, generally, on energy usage, you’d be better off using an oven,” he said.
In cases like baking a jacket potato, the microwave or oven may be more efficient and cheaper. Similarly, Steven Kipling from Which? adds that air fryers can’t hold as much food as an oven, meaning if you’re cooking in batches, the oven might be the more economical choice.
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The Loyal Air Fryer Users
Despite these warnings, many people who rely on their air fryers daily aren’t convinced. One passionate air fryer fan commented, “I’m not listening to him on this. I’m air-frying everything. I’ll even air fry a cup of tea.” For these users, the convenience and results of the air fryer outweigh the expert advice.
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Conclusion
While air fryers offer a quick and healthy cooking alternative for smaller meals, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Experts suggest using them for smaller, quicker items but caution against replacing traditional cooking methods entirely. It’s essential to consider the food being cooked and the energy consumption before deciding to rely on the air fryer for every meal.
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