Cookbook author and air fryer enthusiast Clare Andrews has shared six common mistakes she made when using the appliance, hoping to help others avoid similar pitfalls.
One frequent error is overfilling the basket. Andrews explains that air fryers rely on rapid air circulation to cook food evenly, and overcrowding can block hot air, leading to soggy textures and uneven cooking.
Another mistake is neglecting to clean the air fryer between uses. Residue can impair performance and reduce the appliance's longevity. For those short on time, Andrews suggests using silicone liners or oven-proof dishes.
Andrews also warns against cooking very light foods, such as mini meringues, small tortilla wraps, or cheese slices, as they can be swept up by the air circulation and attach to the heating element, potentially causing smoke or damage.
Not shaking the basket or turning food halfway through cooking is another common error. Doing so ensures food becomes crispy all over. Additionally, Andrews advises users to experiment with different foods and to check on their cooking regularly, as all air fryers are different.
