Air fryers have become a game-changer in modern kitchens, allowing people to enjoy crispy, delicious food with less oil. However, while this appliance is versatile, there are certain foods and materials that should never go inside it. Misusing an air fryer can lead to poor cooking results, damage to the appliance, or even potential safety hazards.
In this guide, we’ll explore the complete list of things you should never put in an air fryer and why avoiding them is essential.
1. Wet Batters (Like Tempura or Beer-Battered Foods)
Unlike deep fryers, air fryers do not work well with wet batters. When you place battered foods in an air fryer, the high-speed air circulation blows the wet batter away, creating a mess inside the basket. Instead, use a breadcrumb coating or a dry batter mix to get a crispy texture.
2. Cheese on Its Own
Placing cheese directly in an air fryer without a protective coating (like in a grilled cheese sandwich) can cause it to melt and drip into the heating element. This can lead to smoke, burning, and a sticky mess. If you want to air-fry cheese, make sure it is properly enclosed, like in a breaded mozzarella stick.
3. Raw Rice or Pasta
Dry grains like rice and pasta require boiling in water to cook properly. Simply putting them in an air fryer won’t cook them and could even burn them. If you want to make crispy rice or pasta chips, cook them first and then air-fry them for a crunchy texture.
4. Popcorn
While it might seem like a good idea, an air fryer doesn’t reach the high temperatures needed to pop corn kernels effectively. This can lead to uneven popping, burning, or wasted kernels. Stick to a stovetop or microwave for making popcorn.
5. Leafy Greens (Like Kale or Spinach)
Lightweight, leafy greens can fly around inside the air fryer basket due to the strong air circulation. This leads to uneven cooking and potential burning. If you want to air-fry greens, use a heavier coating, like oil or seasonings, to keep them weighed down.
6. Whole Roasts or Large Cuts of Meat
Air fryers work best with small, evenly sized cuts of meat. A large roast or a whole chicken might cook unevenly—crispy on the outside but raw inside. If you want to cook a large cut, consider using a regular oven or breaking it down into smaller pieces.
7. Foods with High Water Content (Like Fresh Fruits or Soft Vegetables)
Watery foods, such as fresh tomatoes, oranges, or watermelon, do not crisp up in an air fryer. Instead, they may turn mushy or dry out too much. If you want to air-fry fruits, opt for denser ones like apples or bananas.
8. Bread Without Support
Toasting plain bread in an air fryer can lead to it flying around inside the appliance due to air circulation, potentially getting stuck in the heating element. If you want to toast bread, place it in a baking dish or use a wire rack inside the air fryer.
9. Plastic, Paper, or Aluminum Foil (Incorrectly Used)
- Plastic containers or wrap can melt and cause dangerous fumes.
- Paper towels can catch fire inside the fryer.
- Aluminum foil, if used improperly, can block airflow and affect cooking results. If using foil, ensure it doesn’t cover the entire basket and allows proper air circulation.
10. Raw Eggs in the Shell
Cooking eggs in their shell inside an air fryer can cause them to explode due to pressure buildup. Instead, boil eggs the traditional way or use an air fryer with a dedicated egg tray for safety.
11. Foods with a High Sugar Content (Like Candies or Sugary Sauces)
Foods coated in thick sugar-based sauces (such as BBQ sauce or caramel) can burn quickly in an air fryer. Instead, add sauces after cooking or use a glaze that can withstand high temperatures.
12. Burgers with Excessive Fat
While air fryers can handle lean meats, high-fat burgers (like beef patties with over 20% fat) may produce excessive smoke due to dripping grease. This can lead to a smoky kitchen and unpleasant flavors. To avoid this, choose leaner cuts or drain excess fat during cooking.
13. Certain Frozen Vegetables (Like Broccoli and Cauliflower)
Not all frozen vegetables work well in an air fryer. Some, like broccoli, can dry out too much and become bitter. Instead, try air-frying heartier frozen vegetables such as carrots or brussels sprouts for better results.
14. Milk and Other Dairy Liquids
Never pour milk or other dairy liquids into an air fryer, as they will not cook properly and could cause a mess. Instead, use solid dairy products like cheese, but ensure they are properly contained.
15. Coconut and Flaky Foods
Coconut flakes and small crumbs can easily blow around inside the air fryer, burning quickly and sticking to the heating element. To avoid this, press the coating firmly onto foods or use a baking dish.
Final Tips to Use Your Air Fryer Safely
To get the best results from your air fryer, keep these tips in mind:
✔ Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before trying new foods.
✔ Use proper cooking accessories designed for air fryers.
✔ Clean your air fryer regularly to prevent smoke buildup.
✔ Avoid overloading the basket to ensure even cooking.
By following these guidelines, you can keep your air fryer in top condition and enjoy delicious, safe meals without unexpected messes or hazards.