Introduction
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to deep frying, an air fryer is a handy kitchen appliance that can give you the best of both worlds! It utilizes hot air to provide the same crispy texture you’d expect from fried foods without all the extra grease. However, many people are stumped when it comes to what to make in an air fryer. Fear not, because we’ve got you covered with surprising foods to cook, recipes for every meal, and more!
10 Surprising Foods You Can Cook in an Air Fryer
If you thought air fryer recipes mostly consist of chicken and potatoes, think again! Here are ten unconventional foods to try making in your air fryer:
1. Avocado Fries:
Slice up an avocado into wedges, coat them in breadcrumbs and egg, and air fry for a few minutes per side until golden brown. These make for a delicious appetizer or snack!
2. Grilled Cheese:
Use your air fryer to make the perfect grilled cheese sandwich by placing your assembled sandwich in the air fryer basket and cooking for a few minutes per side until the bread is toasted and the cheese is gooey.
3. Muffins:
Yes, you read that right! You can make evenly baked muffins in your air fryer. Simply mix up your favorite muffin batter and divide it into silicone muffin cups before placing them in the air fryer.
4. Bacon:
Air frying bacon allows the fat to drip away as it cooks, leaving you with crispy strips without the mess. Just be sure to keep an eye on it as it cooks quickly!
5. Baked Potatoes:
No need to heat up your oven for baked potatoes when you can make them in an air fryer! Simply prick a few holes in the potato, rub with oil, and cook in the air fryer until the skin is crispy and the interior is soft and fluffy.
6. Fish Tacos:
Coat your favorite fish in a crunchy batter, cook in the air fryer, and serve in a taco shell with your favorite toppings for a healthy and flavorful taco night.
7. Donuts:
You can make donuts from scratch or use premade dough, but either way, pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes and then toss them in cinnamon sugar for the perfect treat.
8. Sweet Potato Chips:
Thinly slice sweet potatoes, toss with oil and seasoning, and air fry until crispy. These make for a tasty and healthy snack!
9. Falafel:
Make falafel balls and put them in the air fryer until they are crispy and golden brown.
10. Mashed Potato Balls:
Mix together leftover mashed potatoes, cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasoning, shape into balls, and air fry until crisp on the outside. These make for a great appetizer or side dish
Air Fryer Recipes for Every Meal
Let’s move on to recipe ideas that will help make every meal in your day a little healthier.
Breakfast:
You can make use of your air fryer by making delicious breakfast dishes such as Hashbrowns, Sausage Links, omelets and even granola bars and bananas foster. It’s easy and less messy too!
Lunch:
You can make your favorite chicken nuggets or chicken sandwich. Keep it healthy by using panko or whole wheat breadcrumbs and lean meats.
Dinner:
Air fryers can also cook roasts, chicken strips, fish and seafood like shrimp. Choose lean meats and flavor as desired. Air frying during dinner time is quick and easy, so you have more time to spend with your loved ones.
Desserts:
Not only can you make the classic brownies, but you can also make monkey bread, funnel cakes, and even fudgsicles.
How to Get the Perfect Fry in Your Air Fryer
Just because you’re using an air fryer doesn’t mean you can’t achieve the perfect crispy fry. Here’s how:
French Fries:
Soak your sliced potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes, pat dry, lightly coat with oil, and air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, giving them a shake halfway through cooking.
Chicken Wings:
Toss wings with salt, pepper, and baking powder before placing them in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
Quick and Healthy Meals You Can Make in an Air Fryer
Using an air fryer can help you make quick, healthy meals that will keep you feeling satiated and nourished.
Salmon:
Rub salmon fillets with olive oil and your choice of spices before air frying at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until cooked through.
Veggies:
Toss your favorite veggies with oil and seasoning and air fry at 390°F for 10-12 minutes for a healthy and flavorful side dish.
Stuffed Peppers:
Stuff bell peppers with your choice of filling like quinoa, black beans, or ground turkey, and air fry at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until the peppers are cooked through and the filling is heated.
Air Fryer Desserts That Will Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
And let’s not forget about dessert! Here are a few dessert recipes you can make using your air fryer:
Chocolate Chip Cookies:
Mix together your favorite cookie dough, spoon onto a baking sheet or silicone mat, and air fry at 350°F for 7-9 minutes until golden brown.
Churros:
Whip up churro dough, pipe into sticks, air fry at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, and toss in cinnamon sugar for a delicious, homemade dessert.
Air Fryer Hacks You Need to Know
As you start using your air fryer more often, here are some general tips and tricks to keep in mind:
Cooking Multiple Foods at Once:
Place similar foods (like chicken and veggies) together in the basket and cook for the same amount of time for an easy one-pan meal.
Cleaning:
Some air fryer accessories are dishwasher-safe, but wipe down the basket and drawer with a damp cloth after use to keep it clean and in good condition.
Using Accessories:
Air fryer accessories like baking cups, racks, and skewers can expand the range of items you can cook in your air fryer.
Conclusion
From breakfast to dessert, an air fryer can help you make healthier versions of your favorite dishes without sacrificing flavor or texture.
