With the rise of the air fryer, people are finding new and innovative ways to prepare food. Not only is the device a healthier alternative to frying, it also opens up new possibilities for baking cakes and muffins, making doughnuts, grilling steak and chicken and roasting vegetables and chillies.
In order to make the most out of your air fryer, it’s important to have the right cookware. While there are specific pans and dishes designed to work well with the appliance, you can still use many pieces from your regular kitchen set, provided that they are oven-safe.
When it comes to metal cookware, you’ll want to be sure that it is marked as oven-safe. If it isn’t, it may warp or melt at the higher temperatures an air fryer can reach. This is especially true of stainless steel bowls and cups with decorative additions, such as a painted design or art.
Another great option for bakeware and cooking trays is silicone, which is a nonstick material that can withstand high heat without melting. It also conforms to the shape of your food for better, more even cooking. These types of trays and pans are often used for baked goods like cookies, muffins and breads, as well as some fried foods such as onion rings.
It’s a good idea to have a pair of silicone tongs for your air fryer. This way, you can flip your food more easily during the cooking process, which is typically recommended in air fryer recipes.