Cookbook author and air fryer enthusiast Clare Andrews has shared the six most frequent mistakes she has made with her air fryer, hoping to help others avoid similar pitfalls. From overfilling the basket to neglecting to clean the appliance, Andrews draws on her own experiences to guide users towards better results.
One key error is overfilling the basket, which prevents proper air circulation and leads to soggy, unevenly cooked food. Andrews advises using silicone liners or oven-proof dishes to reduce the need for cleaning, and warns that leaving residue can affect both hygiene and the machine's performance.
Lightweight foods such as mini meringues, small tortilla wraps, and cheese slices should be avoided as they can be swept up by the air circulation and attach to the heating element, potentially causing smoke or damage. Andrews also stresses the importance of shaking the basket or turning food halfway through cooking to ensure even crispiness.
Finally, Andrews reminds users that all air fryers are different, so it is crucial to check food during cooking and not be afraid to open the appliance, as it returns to temperature quickly. Experimenting with different foods and recipes is encouraged to master the device.
