Air fryer mistakes: Foods you should never cook in it

Very light foods

An air fryer can achieve a crispy texture thanks to convection technology, which combines fast air movement with heat for quick and even cooking. However, this can be a problem when cooking light, thin pieces of food.

Light foods may fly around and can even reach the heating element, where they may catch fire.

Large cuts of meat

Any foods that are best cooked slowly at low temperatures, such as tough cuts of meat, are not suitable for an air fryer.

Instead, use a slow cooker for cuts like brisket, pork shoulder, and ribs, which require a moist cooking environment.

An air fryer is better for making food crispy, browned, or caramelized.

Large casseroles or baked goods

As is known, an air fryer works like a compact convection oven — hot air circulates the food. Because of this, there are limitations in size and thickness.

If a dish is too thick, the center may remain raw while the top burns. It is definitely not suitable if:

• The dish does not fit or blocks air circulation
• The batter is too runny, and there is no proper mold
• even cooking of a large volume is required (an oven is better)

Fish

Air fryers are great for fatty fish such as salmon. However, some types of fish are less suitable. Avoid delicate skinless fillets, as they may turn out dry.

Usage rules

Add a little fat. If the food naturally contains fat, such as red meat or chicken, there is no need to add extra oil. However, vegetables or foods that require crispiness should be lightly brushed with oil.

Avoid overcrowding. It is important to leave enough space between food pieces in the air fryer basket so that hot air can circulate properly.

Reduce mess with parchment paper. It can help prevent splattering sauce. To avoid blocking airflow, holes should be made in the paper in advance.