Air fryers have become a staple in UK kitchens, offering a quicker way to cook everything from chips to chicken. But a frequent blunder is leading to uneven cooking, wasted time, and even potential fire hazards. Ninja Kitchen has identified the most common errors people make, and how to avoid them.
According to the experts, one major mistake is covering food with parchment paper or aluminium foil without proper care. While these materials are safe to use in an air fryer, doing so incorrectly can block airflow. The specialists warned: "Covering or wrapping your food in parchment paper or aluminium foil can block the airflow in your air fryer, and if not secured properly, can increase the risk of fires if the paper or foil comes in contact with the heating element." They advise placing the paper or foil underneath the food or grill plate so the weight keeps it in place.
Other common pitfalls include using too much oil, which causes excessive smoke and greasy results; failing to shake or flip food during cooking, which disrupts hot air circulation; and skipping preheating, which affects cooking consistency. Overfilling the basket is also a problem, as it restricts airflow and can lead to uneven cooking, longer times, and even overheating.
The guidance comes as more than 26,000 people searched for 'how to use an air fryer' in the past month. To get the best results, remember to preheat, avoid overcrowding, use oil sparingly, and ensure any paper or foil is weighed down safely.
