Air frying is one of the most popular healthy cooking techniques today. More and more people are turning to it to avoid the harmful effects of traditional frying and high-fat foods. It's true that you can prepare delicious and crispy dishes without oil, such as potatoes. However, some foods should absolutely not be cooked this way, according to SanteMagazine.
What foods can be cooked in an air fryer?
Potatoes, seafood, and chicken are some of the ideal foods to cook in an air fryer, as is fish, especially when seasoned with spices and herbs to enhance the flavor.
Meats are also very well suited to this type of cooking: they remain tender on the inside, while being crispy and golden on the outside.
Added to this list are most vegetables such as zucchini, asparagus, eggplant, etc.
Foods to Never Put in an Air Fryer
However, there are some foods that absolutely cannot be cooked this way. Here are some examples:
Certain types of cheese
Once melted, cheese should not be placed in the air fryer. It may burn, leak, or lose its flavor, and may even damage the appliance.
Many cheeses cannot be cooked in this way, such as Parmesan, ricotta, Philadelphia, goat cheese or Gorgonzola.
Feta, mozzarella, and raclette cheese can be used as long as you line the bottom of the appliance with special paper. The same goes for halloumi.
Large pieces of meat
If the meat is too thick or bulky, it prevents proper circulation of hot air. The result: the meat is overcooked on the outside and undercooked on the inside.
It is therefore recommended to cut the meat into smaller pieces before cooking.
Rice and pasta
These foods require a large amount of water, which is incompatible with cooking in an air fryer.
Dishes in sauce
Dishes containing sauce should never be placed in the appliance. Regardless of their type, it is best to reheat them in saucepans or in the oven.
Leafy or water-rich vegetables
Spinach, lettuce, and other leafy or watery vegetables are not suitable for this cooking method. They may float inside the appliance or damage it.
It is therefore better to cook them using traditional methods.
