Air Fryer Articles

Article / Updated 10-10-2023

Think the air fryer is just to make your favorite “fried” foods fast? Think again! From Beef Short Ribs to Chicken Souvlaki Gyros, there’s a meaty main in this article that will appeal to every carnivore. Pork Schnitzel Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 14 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 4 boneless pork chops, pounded to 1/4-inch thickness 1 teaspoon salt, divided 1 teaspoon black pepper, divided 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 eggs 1 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1 lemon, cut into wedges Directions Season both sides of the pork chops with 1/2 teaspoon of the salt and 1/2 teaspoon of the pepper. On a plate, place the flour. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. In another large bowl, place the breadcrumbs. Season the flour with the paprika and season the breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper. To bread the pork, place a pork chop in the flour, then into the whisked eggs, and then into the breadcrumbs. Place the breaded pork onto a plate and finish breading the remaining pork chops. Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees. Place the pork chops into the air fryer, not overlapping and working in batches as needed. Spray the pork chops with cooking spray and cook for 8 minutes; flip the pork and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes or until cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees. Serve with lemon wedges. Serve with spätzle and a tossed salad to complete this German meal. Beef Short Ribs Prep time: 1 hour Cook time: 20 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon sesame oil 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground ginger 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 pound beef short ribs Directions In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and ginger. Transfer the mixture to a large resealable plastic bag, and place the garlic cloves and short ribs into the bag. Secure and place in the refrigerator for an hour (or overnight). When you’re ready to prepare the dish, preheat the air fryer to 330 degrees. Liberally spray the air fryer basket with olive oil mist and set the beef short ribs in the basket. Cook for 10 minutes, flip the short ribs, and then cook another 10 minutes. Remove the short ribs from the air fryer basket, loosely cover with aluminum foil, and let them rest. The short ribs will continue to cook after they’re removed from the basket. Check the internal temperature after 5 minutes to make sure it reached 145 degrees if you prefer a well-done meat. If it didn’t reach 145 degrees and you would like it to be cooked longer, you can put it back into the air fryer basket at 330 degrees for another 3 minutes. Remove from the basket and let it rest, covered with aluminum foil, for 5 minutes. Serve immediately. If you prefer more of a rare meat, decrease the cooking time to 14 minutes total. Mustard-Crusted Ribeye Prep time: 35 minutes Cook time: 9 minutes Yield: 2 servings Ingredients Two 6-ounce ribeye steaks, about 1-inch thick 1 teaspoon coarse salt 1/2 teaspoon coarse black pepper 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard Directions Rub the steaks with the salt and pepper. Then spread the mustard on both sides of the steaks. Cover with foil and let the steaks sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees. Cook the steaks for 9 minutes. Check for an internal temperature of 140 degrees and immediately remove the steaks and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Using a thermometer is the most accurate way to ensure that your meat is not over- or undercooked. Sirloin steaks are a leaner cut. If you opt for a sirloin, you’ll need to reduce the cooking time. Try this dish with any of your favorite steak seasonings. Steakhouse Burgers with Red Onion Compote Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 22 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef 2 cloves garlic, minced and divided 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon sea salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon sugar 1 tablespoon tomato paste 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons sour cream 4 brioche hamburger buns 1 cup arugula Directions In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, 1 of the minced garlic cloves, the Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and the black pepper. Form the meat into 1-inch-thick patties. Make a dent in the center (this helps the center cook evenly). Let the meat sit for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over medium heat, cook the olive oil and red onion for 4 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. Add in the balsamic vinegar, sugar, and tomato paste, and cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Transfer the onion compote to a small bowl. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. In another small bowl, mix together the remaining minced garlic, the mayonnaise, and the sour cream. Spread the mayo mixture on the insides of the brioche buns. Cook the hamburgers for 6 minutes, flip the burgers, and cook an additional 2 to 6 minutes. Check the internal temperature to avoid under- or overcooking. Hamburgers should be cooked to at least 160 degrees. After cooking, cover with foil and let the meat rest for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, place the buns inside the air fryer and toast them for 3 minutes. To assemble the burgers, place the hamburger on one side of the bun, top with onion compote and 1/4 cup arugula, and then place the other half of the bun on top. From a food safety perspective, we always advise cooking red meat to medium or well done. Use a mandolin on the thinnest setting to get paper-thin onions. This is a fancier burger for many people, but don’t underestimate these flavors! You won’t miss the classic tomato and onion slices. But, if you prefer the classic version, opt for sliced tomatoes, onions, and crisp lettuce instead. Chicken Souvlaki Gyros Prep time: 2 hour 5 minutes Cook time: 18 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 lemon, sliced 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts 4 whole-grain pita breads 1 cup shredded lettuce 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes 1/4 cup chopped red onion 1/4 cup cucumber yogurt sauce Directions In a large resealable plastic bag, combine the olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, lemon, and salt. Add the chicken to the bag and secure shut. Vigorously shake until all the ingredients are combined. Set in the fridge for 2 hours to marinate. When ready to cook, preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees. Liberally spray the air fryer basket with olive oil mist. Remove the chicken from the bag and discard the leftover marinade. Place the chicken into the air fryer basket, allowing enough room between the chicken breasts to flip. Cook for 10 minutes, flip, and cook another 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the air fryer basket when it has cooked (or the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees). Let rest 5 minutes. Then thinly slice the chicken into strips. Assemble the gyros by placing the pita bread on a flat surface and topping with chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, and a drizzle of yogurt sauce. Serve warm. Do not marinate more than 2 hours with the lemon inside. Warm the pita bread in the air fryer for a minute for a restaurant-like feel.

Article / Updated 04-25-2023

Air Fryers are for more than making healthier versions of French fries. You can use your air fryer to make tasty sandwiches and wraps, too. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a carnivore, there’s a star-studded handheld in this article that will satisfy and satiate you! Now, who’s ready to dive in? Tuna Melt Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 2 servings Ingredients 5 ounces canned tuna in water, no salt added 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt 1/8 teaspoon dill 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt 4 slices whole-grain bread 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil 4 slices white cheddar cheese, divided 8 dill pickle slices Directions Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees. In a medium bowl, mix the tuna, onion, mayonnaise, yogurt, dill, pepper, and salt. Set aside. Lay the bread flat; then lightly brush the outer sides with the olive oil. Flip the bread over, and place 1 slice of cheese down on 2 slices of bread. Spread half of the tuna mixture on each of those 2 slices of bread; then place 4 dill pickle circles on top of each. Add the remaining slice of cheese and cover with the bread (oiled side facing out). Place each sandwich inside the air fryer basket. Cook for 4 minutes, rotate, and cook another 4 minutes to evenly melt the cheese and crisp the bread. Remove from the air fryer and let cool 3 minutes before slicing. Serve warm. Prepare the tuna ahead of time and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready. Tuna will keep in the refrigerator for 3 days in an airtight container. Apple and Cheddar Grilled Cheese Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 7 minutes Yield: 1 serving Ingredients 2 slices seeded whole-grain bread 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil 3 ounces cheddar cheese slices 1/2 small Honeycrisp apple, cored and thinly sliced 1/8 teaspoon black pepper Salt, to taste Directions Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees. Lay the bread down on a flat surface and lightly brush the outer sides with olive oil. Flip the slices of bread over and begin to assemble the sandwich. Place 1-1/2 ounces of cheese on the bread; then cover evenly with apple slices and top with a pinch of black pepper. Top the apples with the remaining 1-1/2 ounces of cheddar cheese; then cover with the other bread slice. Spray the air fryer basket with an olive oil mist; then place the sandwich into the basket. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the outer edges of the bread are lightly browned. Depending on your air fryer basket and how it distributes heat, you may need to flip the sandwich halfway through cooking. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Use sliced cheese instead of shredded to prevent a cheesy mess in your air fryer. Prefer a sandwich with a little heat? Use roasted red pepper and Pepper Jack cheese in place of apples and cheddar. Fried Green Tomato BLT Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Yield: 2 servings Ingredients 1 large green tomato 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 egg, whisked 4 slices bacon 4 slices sourdough bread 2 leaves lettuce 1 tablespoon mayonnaise Directions Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees for 3 minutes. Slice the tomato into 4 thick slices. In a shallow bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and flour. Dip the tomato slices into the whisked egg and then into the flour mixture to create a breading. Spray liberally with cooking spray. Place the breaded tomato slices into the air fryer basket on one side, and lay out the bacon in a single layer, slightly overlapping the bacon on the other side. Cook for 5 minutes, flip over, and cook another 5 minutes, until desired crispness is achieved. Meanwhile, toast the bread in a toaster. To assemble sandwiches, place 1 leaf of lettuce on 2 slices of bread. On the other 2 slices, spread 1-1/2 teaspoons mayonnaise on each slice. Place 2 slices of crisped bacon on top of the mayonnaise, and then place the tomatoes on top. Close the sandwiches, cut in half, and serve. If you can’t get your hands on green tomatoes, you can use traditional ripe tomatoes instead. Just slice and skip the breading. Build Your Own Hot Pocket Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 7 minutes Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 1 pound store-bought or homemade whole-wheat pizza dough 1-1/2 cups diced ham or cooked turkey 1-1/2 cups grated cheddar cheese (or cheese of your choice) Directions Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. Place the dough on a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out the dough into a large square, about 1/2 inch thick. Using a pizza cutter or dough scraper, cut the dough into twelve 2-1/2-x-4-inch rectangles. Place 2 tablespoons chopped ham or turkey and 2 tablespoons grated cheese down the center of 6 of the dough rectangles. Place the other six rectangles on top. To sandwich the top and bottom pieces together, use the tines of the fork to press together the edges. Poke the surface of the top piece with the fork to create a vent to release steam while cooking. Spray the surface of the hot pocket with cooking spray. Place 3 or 4 hot pockets into air fryer basket and cook for 5 to 7 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes before serving. You can make small hot pockets for young children or appetizers by cutting the dough into 2-x-3-inch rectangles. If you prefer a vegetarian option, opt for broccoli instead of ham or turkey. Use blanched broccoli that has been patted dry and chopped. Calzones Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 pound store-bought or homemade whole-wheat pizza dough 1-1/2 cups jarred marinara sauce, divided 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves 1-1/3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1/4 cup chopped red onions 1/4 cup chopped red bell peppers 1 cup cooked Italian sausage, drained and rinsed Directions Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one piece into an 8-inch circle. Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto the dough. Next, top half of the dough with 1/2 cup spinach leaves, 1/3 cup mozzarella, 1 tablespoon onions, 1 tablespoon bell peppers, and 1/4 cup sausage. Fold the other half of dough over the top and, using a fork, crimp the edges to seal. Poke the surface of the top piece with the fork to create a vent to release steam while cooking. Repeat until four calzones are prepared. Place 2 calzones into the air fryer basket. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. The best way to know if your calzone is cooked completely is to use a food thermometer and cook until 160 degrees internal temperature is reached. Much like a pizza, you can create any flavor combination of calzones. Tex Mex Quesadilla Prep time: 14 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 2 servings Ingredients 1/4 pound lean ground beef 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 cup chopped onion 1/2 teaspoon taco seasoning 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil Two 8-inch flour tortillas 1/4 cup cooked pinto beans, mashed 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese 1 tablespoon barbecue sauce 2 tablespoon chopped cilantro Directions In a skillet over medium-high heat on the stovetop, brown the beef. Stir in the garlic, onion, and taco seasoning, and let the ingredients cook together. When the beef is cooked, remove from the stovetop and let cool. Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. Place the flour tortillas on a flat surface and spread 2 tablespoons of mashed beans on each tortilla. Top one tortilla with 1/4 cup shredded cheese and then half of the ground beef mixture. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top. Cover with the other tortilla, bean side down. Spray the air fryer basket with an olive oil spray and carefully place the quesadilla into it. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the outer tortilla edges are lightly crisped and browned. Remove from the basket and let cool 5 minutes. Drizzle barbecue sauce over the top, and sprinkle with cilantro. Slice into quarters and serve warm. Use large spatulas to help transfer the quesadilla. Prefer a little spice? Add 1 seeded and diced jalapeño pepper into the beef. Prefer chicken in place of beef? No meat? The possibilities are endless to make this quesadilla your own. Buffalo Chicken Wrap Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 8 ounce chicken breasts, cubed 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 tablespoon butter 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1/4 cup hot sauce Four 8-inch flour tortillas 1 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce 1 rib celery, cut into julienned strips (matchsticks) 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken breasts for 6 to 8 minutes or until completely cooked. Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, vegetable oil, and hot sauce in the microwave for 30 seconds, stir, and heat for an additional 30 seconds or until the butter has melted. After the chicken has cooked, add the chicken into the hot sauce mixture and toss to coat the chicken pieces. To assemble the wraps, place 4 tortillas onto 4 plates. Place 1/4 cup shredded cabbage or lettuce onto each tortilla. Top the cabbage equally with buffalo chicken; then top with celery sticks and crumbled blue cheese. Fold up the sides and serve. Test a large piece of chicken to ensure all pieces have fully cooked. If you see any pink, continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes and use a clean utensil to recheck the chicken.

Cheat Sheet / Updated 02-25-2022

The air fryer is a great tool on its own, but you can kick things up a notch when you use it with some other kitchen utensils you probably already have on hand. One of the dangers of air frying is overcooking the food you’re making. With these tips, you’ll avoid that problem and air fry like a pro!

Article / Updated 05-13-2020

To get you onboard the seafood ship, we’ve re-created some fan favorite traditional seafood fare you’d find while dining out. But all these recipes are a bit healthier because they’re air fried, not deep fried! You’d be surprised how much flavor is there when you have the right seasonings to really make these seafood dishes come to life. Bottom line: Eat more seafood, and let this article be your guide! Honey Pecan Shrimp Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1/4 cup cornstarch 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, divided 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 egg whites 2/3 cup finely chopped pecans 1 pound raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp 1/4 cup honey 2 tablespoons mayonnaise Directions In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and the pepper. In a second bowl, whisk together the egg whites until soft and foamy. (They don’t need to be whipped to peaks or even soft peaks, just frothy.) In a third bowl, mix together the pecans and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Working in small batches, dip the shrimp into the cornstarch, then into the egg whites, and then into the pecans until all the shrimp are coated with pecans. Preheat the air fryer to 330 degrees. Place the coated shrimp inside the air fryer basket and spray with cooking spray. Cook for 5 minutes, toss the shrimp, and cook another 5 minutes. Meanwhile, place the honey in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 30 seconds. Whisk in the mayonnaise until smooth and creamy. Pour the honey sauce into a serving bowl. Add the cooked shrimp to the serving bowl while hot and toss to coat. Serve immediately. Shrimp are cooked when they’re pink and firm. Overcooking shrimp will result in a rubbery texture. If using a thermometer, check for 145 degrees. Walnuts, pistachios, or sesame seeds can all be used in place of the pecans. Bacon-Wrapped Scallops Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 16 large scallops 8 bacon strips 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika Directions Pat the scallops dry with a paper towel. Slice each of the bacon strips in half. Wrap 1 bacon strip around 1 scallop and secure with a toothpick. Repeat with the remaining scallops. Season the scallops with pepper and paprika. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. Place the bacon-wrapped scallops in the air fryer basket and cook for 4 minutes, shake the basket, cook another 3 minutes, shake the basket, and cook another 1 to 3 to minutes. When the bacon is crispy, the scallops should be cooked through and slightly firm, but not rubbery. Serve immediately. Scallops should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145 degrees. If your scallops are cooking much faster than the bacon, precook the bacon for 3 minutes at 400 degrees first; then wrap the scallops. For a Mediterranean twist, wrap the scallops in prosciutto instead of bacon. For a plant-forward meal, wrap in roasted red bell peppers. Pecan-Crusted Tilapia Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 pound skinless, boneless tilapia filets 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 teaspoon minced fresh or dried rosemary 1 cup finely chopped pecans 1 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 teaspoon paprika 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 lemon, cut into wedges Directions Pat the tilapia filets dry with paper towels. Pour the melted butter over the filets and flip the filets to coat them completely. In a medium bowl, mix together the rosemary, pecans, salt, and paprika. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. Place the tilapia filets into the air fryer basket and top with the pecan coating. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes. The fish should be firm to the touch and flake easily when fully cooked. Remove the fish from the air fryer. Top the fish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges. Serve with steamed rice and cabbage slaw to complete the meal. Any firm white fish can be used in place of tilapia. Crab Cakes Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 9 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 pound lump crab meat, checked for shells 1/3 cup bread crumbs 1/4 cup finely chopped onions 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell peppers 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 2 eggs, whisked 3/4 cup mayonnaise, divided 1/4 cup sour cream 1 lemon, divided 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish 1 tablespoon prepared mustard Directions In a large bowl, mix together the crab meat, breadcrumbs, onions, bell peppers, parsley, sea salt, eggs, and 1/4 cup of the mayonnaise. Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees. Form 8 patties with the crab cake mixture. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and place the crab cakes on the parchment paper. Spray with cooking spray. Cook for 4 minutes, turn over the crab cakes, spray with cooking spray, and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown and the edges are crispy. Cook in batches as needed. Meanwhile, make the sauce. In a small bowl, mix together the remaining 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, the sour cream, the juice from 1/2 of the lemon, the pickle relish, and the mustard. Place the cooked crab cakes on a serving platter and serve with the remaining 1/2 lemon cut into wedges and the dipping sauce. When using a thermometer to test for doneness, the crab cakes should reach 155 degrees. Crab meat can be slightly salty, so adjust the seasoning after cooking as needed. Crab cakes can be made with a variety of flavors and fillers. If your preference is gluten-free, opt for crushed gluten-free crackers in place of the breadcrumbs. Maple-Crusted Salmon Prep time: 35 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 2 servings Ingredients 12 ounces salmon filets 1/3 cup maple syrup 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard or brown mustard 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 lemon 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish Directions Place the salmon in a shallow baking dish. Top with maple syrup, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. Remove the salmon from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chopped nuts on top of the salmon filets, and sprinkle salt on top of the nuts. Place the salmon, skin side down, in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until the fish flakes in the center. Remove the salmon and plate on a serving platter. Squeeze fresh lemon over the top of the salmon and top with chopped parsley. Serve immediately. If using a thermometer, the internal temperature of cooked salmon should read 145 degrees. Thicker pieces of salmon will take longer to cook; be sure to check for doneness. Serve salmon with steamed broccoli and roasted potatoes. When swapping out toppings, consider a fattier nut or seed to avoid burning. Sesame seeds are a great nut-free topping. Beer-Breaded Halibut Fish Tacos Prep time: 35 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 pound halibut, cut into 1-inch strips 1 cup light beer 1 jalapeño, minced and divided 1 clove garlic, minced 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 cup cornmeal 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1-1/4 teaspoons sea salt, divided 2 cups shredded cabbage 1 lime, juiced and divided 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 cup grape tomatoes, quartered 1/2 cup chopped cilantro 1/4 cup chopped onion 1 egg, whisked 8 corn tortillas Directions In a shallow baking dish, place the fish, the beer, 1 teaspoon of the minced jalapeño, the garlic, and the cumin. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix together the cornmeal, flour, and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. In large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, 1 tablespoon of the lime juice, the Greek yogurt, the mayonnaise, and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. In a small bowl, make the pico de gallo by mixing together the tomatoes, cilantro, onion, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, the remaining jalapeño, and the remaining lime juice. Remove the fish from the refrigerator and discard the marinade. Dredge the fish in the whisked egg; then dredge the fish in the cornmeal flour mixture, until all pieces of fish have been breaded. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. Place the fish in the air fryer basket and spray liberally with cooking spray. Cook for 6 minutes, flip and shake the fish, and cook another 4 minutes. While the fish is cooking, heat the tortillas in a heavy skillet for 1 to 2 minutes over high heat. To assemble the tacos, place the battered fish on the heated tortillas, and top with slaw and pico de gallo. Serve immediately. Fresh corn tortillas will be more pliable and less stiff. You can use flour tortillas if you prefer. If you don’t have cornmeal, you can use polenta or semolina flour instead. Any firm white fish can replace halibut.

Article / Updated 05-13-2020

Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or an omnivore, this article shows you how to make plant-forward main dishes in your air fryer without sacrificing any flavor. Eating plant forward is very trendy these days and for good reason: Produce is powerful! From fighting off disease to improving digestion, the benefits of incorporating more plant-based meals into your regular routine are profound. You can pair a simple Basic Fried Tofu with Veggie Fried Rice, or enjoy Charred Cauliflower Tacos on Taco Tuesday. Prefer more of a traditional menu? Eggplant Parmesan may be right up your ally. We promise, with the recipes in this article, everyone will be pleased with incorporating more plant-based meals into your household menu! Charred Cauliflower Tacos Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 head cauliflower, washed and cut into florets 2 tablespoons avocado oil 2 teaspoons taco seasoning 1 medium avocado 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons chopped red onion 2 teaspoons fresh squeezed lime juice 1/4 cup chopped cilantro Eight 6-inch corn tortillas 1/2 cup cooked corn 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage Directions Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees. In a large bowl, toss the cauliflower with the avocado oil and taco seasoning. Set the metal trivet inside the air fryer basket and liberally spray with olive oil. Place the cauliflower onto the trivet and cook for 10 minutes, shaking every 3 minutes to allow for an even char. While the cauliflower is cooking, prepare the avocado sauce. In a medium bowl, mash the avocado; then mix in the garlic powder, pepper, salt, and onion. Stir in the lime juice and cilantro; set aside. Remove the cauliflower from the air fryer basket. Place 1 tablespoon of avocado sauce in the middle of a tortilla, and top with corn, cabbage, and charred cauliflower. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Serve immediately. If you don’t have a metal trivet, you can cook the cauliflower directly in the metal basket. Just be sure to shake the cauliflower frequently so it doesn’t burn. Store the leftover cauliflower in an airtight container and use within 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes at 350 degrees. Basic Fried Tofu Prep time: 1 hour 20minutes Cook time: 17 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 14 ounces extra-firm tofu, drained and pressed 1 tablespoon sesame oil 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce 1/4 cup rice vinegar 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger 1 clove garlic, minced 3 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt Directions Cut the tofu into 16 cubes. Set aside in a glass container with a lid. In a medium bowl, mix the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic. Pour over the tofu and secure the lid. Place in the refrigerator to marinate for an hour. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch, black pepper, and salt. Transfer the tofu to a large bowl and discard the leftover marinade. Pour the cornstarch mixture over the tofu and toss until all the pieces are coated. Liberally spray the air fryer basket with olive oil mist and set the tofu pieces inside. Allow space between the tofu so it can cook evenly. Cook in batches if necessary. Cook 15 to 17 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes to allow the tofu to cook evenly on all sides. When it’s done cooking, the tofu will be crisped and browned on all sides. Remove the tofu from the air fryer basket and serve warm. Press tofu before marinating by placing it between layers of paper towels under a heavy object (like a cast iron skillet). You can purchase a tofu press, but this homemade option works just as well. The tofu will keep in the refrigerator for 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 3 to 5 minutes before serving. Want to make this gluten-free? Use a tamari or gluten-free soy sauce alternative Spicy Sesame Tempeh Slaw with Peanut Dressing Prep time: 2 hour 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 2 servings Ingredients 2 cups hot water 1 teaspoon salt 8 ounces tempeh, sliced into 1-inch-long pieces 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 1 tablespoon filtered water 2 teaspoons sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger 1 clove garlic, minced 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 jalapeño, sliced 4 cups cabbage slaw 4 tablespoons Peanut Dressing (see the following recipe) 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped peanuts Directions Mix the hot water with the salt and pour over the tempeh in a glass bowl. Stir and cover with a towel for 10 minutes. Discard the water and leave the tempeh in the bowl. In a medium bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, filtered water, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, pepper, and jalapeño. Pour over the tempeh and cover with a towel. Place in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 2 hours. Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. Remove the tempeh from the bowl and discard the remaining marinade. Liberally spray the metal trivet that goes into the air fryer basket and place the tempeh on top of the trivet. Cook for 4 minutes, flip, and cook another 4 minutes. In a large bowl, mix the cabbage slaw with the Peanut Dressing and toss in the cilantro and chopped peanuts. Portion onto 4 plates and place the cooked tempeh on top when cooking completes. Serve immediately. Prep a day ahead for a stronger flavor infusion. Veggie Fried Rice Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 cup cooked brown rice 1/3 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup chopped carrots 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers 1/2 cup chopped broccoli florets 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt 2 large eggs Directions Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. In a large bowl, mix together the brown rice, onions, carrots, bell pepper, and broccoli. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, pepper, salt, and eggs. Pour the egg mixture into the rice and vegetable mixture and mix together. Liberally spray a 7-inch springform pan (or compatible air fryer dish) with olive oil. Add the rice mixture to the pan and cover with aluminum foil. Place a metal trivet into the air fryer basket and set the pan on top. Cook for 15 minutes. Carefully remove the pan from basket, discard the foil, and mix the rice. Return the rice to the air fryer basket, turning down the temperature to 350 degrees and cooking another 10 minutes. Remove and let cool 5 minutes. Serve warm. To keep this recipe gluten-free, use a tamari or other gluten-free soy sauce. Serve with a fried egg over the top for an added vegetarian protein boost. Prefer a little meat? Mix in a cup of cooked chicken, pork, or beef. Black Bean Empanadas Prep time: 35 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 12 servings Ingredients 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup whole-wheat flour 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter 1 egg 1/2 cup tablespoons milk One 14.5-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 1 cup shredded purple cabbage 1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese 1/4 cup salsa Directions In a food processor, place the all-purpose flour, whole-wheat flour, salt, and butter into processor and process for 2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the food processor every 30 seconds. Add in the egg and blend for 30 seconds. Using the pulse button, add in the milk 1 tablespoon at a time, or until dough is moist enough to handle and be rolled into a ball. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix together the black beans, cilantro, cabbage, Monterey Jack cheese, and salsa. On a floured surface, cut the dough in half; then form a ball and cut each ball into 6 equal pieces, totaling 12 equal pieces. Work with one piece at a time, and cover the remaining dough with a towel. Roll out a piece of dough into a 6-inch round, much like a tortilla, 1/4 inch thick. Place 4 tablespoons of filling in the center of the round, and fold over to form a half-circle. Using a fork, crimp the edges together and pierce the top for air holes. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. Working in batches, place 3 to 4 empanadas in the air fryer basket and spray with cooking spray. Cook for 4 minutes, flip over the empanadas and spray with cooking spray, and cook another 4 minutes. Serve with a simple sauce of Greek yogurt, lime juice, cumin, and hot sauce or make it a slaw by adding in purple cabbage to the sauce. Sweet potatoes and black beans are magic together. If you have leftover sweet potatoes around, chop them up and add them to the filling. Refried beans are an easy swap for black beans. Roasted Vegetable Pita Pizza Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 medium red bell pepper, seeded and cut into quarters 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil 1/8 teaspoon black pepper 1/8 teaspoon salt Two 6-inch whole-grain pita breads 6 tablespoons pesto sauce 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. In a small bowl, toss the bell peppers with the olive oil, pepper, and salt. Place the bell peppers in the air fryer and cook for 15 minutes, shaking every 5 minutes to prevent burning. Remove the peppers and set aside. Turn the air fryer temperature down to 350 degrees. Lay the pita bread on a flat surface. Cover each with half the pesto sauce; then top with even portions of the red bell peppers and onions. Sprinkle cheese over the top. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil mist. Carefully lift the pita bread into the air fryer basket with a spatula. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the outer edges begin to brown and the cheese is melted. Serve warm with desired sides. Best served immediately. Flatbread pitas do not hold up well when stored and reheated. Tight on time? Use roasted red bell peppers from a jar and finely mince the onion and toss on top. Prefer a more traditional pizza? Sub the pesto for a marinara sauce and top with tomatoes and cheese. You can add your favorite Italian meats here, too! Eggplant Parmesan Prep time: 40 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 medium, round eggplant, sliced to 1/2-inch-thick rounds 2 teaspoons salt, divided 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon dried thyme 2 eggs 1 cup breadcrumbs 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/4 cup grated parmesan, plus more for garnish 2 cups marinara sauce 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, for garnish Directions Place the eggplant on a cookie sheet lined with paper towels or a tea towel in a single layer. Sprinkle the eggplant with 1-1/2 teaspoons of the salt. Place paper towels or a tea towel on top and place heavier pots or plates on top of that. The idea is to press the bitters out of the eggplant. Let the eggplant sit for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix together the flour, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, and the thyme. In a second bowl, place whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, mix together the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt, the breadcrumbs, the oregano, and 1/4 cup of the parmesan cheese. Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. Remove the towels and rinse the eggplant slices. Pat the slices dry and begin breading the eggplant. Working with 1 slice at a time, first dip in the flour mixture; shake off the extra flour. Next, dip into the eggs. Finally, dredge the eggplant in the breading. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices. Place a single layer of eggplant slices in the air fryer basket and spray liberally with cooking spray. Cook for 5 minutes, flip over and spray with cooking spray, and cook another 5 minutes. Meanwhile, heat the marinara sauce in a saucepan until warm. To serve, plate the eggplant rounds and spoon the marinara over each round. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese and parsley for garnish. Serve hot or at room temperature. Japanese eggplants are much thinner than American eggplant. Look for round and firm-skinned eggplant for best results. To serve as a baked casserole, layer air-fried eggplants with marinara and shredded mozzarella or fontina cheeses. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.

Article / Updated 05-13-2020

This article helps you explore the possibilities of the air fryer! From air frying your Street Corn to making the perfect batch of Cajun Curly Fries, you’ll soon find out you won’t be sacrificing any flavor by taking away the deep-fried fat. Plus, the air fryer is the perfect way to roast your favorite vegetables. Our Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Fried Okra, and Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus are just a few that have easily become family favorites in just a short time. Use this article as a guide, and let your creativity flow to allow your own favorite vegetables to become the star of your side dishes with the air fryer. Street Corn Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 tablespoon butter 4 ears corn 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoon parmesan cheese 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. In a medium microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Lightly brush the outside of the ears of corn with the melted butter. Place the corn into the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes, flip the corn, and cook another 5 minutes. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, mix the yogurt, cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside. Carefully remove the corn from the air fryer and let cool 3 minutes. Brush the outside edges with the yogurt mixture and top with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve immediately. You can reheat the corn in the air fryer without sauce for 1 to 2 minutes at 370 degrees. You can use another variety of cheese if parmesan isn’t your favorite or you have something else on hand. Sweet Potato Curly Fries Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 2 medium sweet potatoes, washed 2 tablespoon avocado oil 3/4 teaspoon salt, divided 1 medium avocado 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 juice lime 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. Using a spiralizer, create curly spirals with the sweet potatoes. Keep the pieces about 1-1/2 inches long. Continue until all the potatoes are used. In a large bowl, toss the curly sweet potatoes with the avocado oil and 1/2 teaspoon of the salt. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes; shake and cook another 5 minutes. While cooking, add the avocado, garlic, paprika, pepper, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of salt, lime juice, and cilantro to a blender and process until smooth. Set aside. When cooking completes, remove the fries and serve warm with the lime avocado sauce. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the fries in batches for an even crisp. Tight on time? You can buy prepared spiralized sweet potato zoodles in the produce section of your market. Cut into 1-1/2 inch pieces. Prefer a spicy or sweet fry? Toss fries with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a kick or mix 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon with 1 teaspoon cane sugar for something sweeter. Asiago Broccoli Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 14 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 head broccoli, cut into florets 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup asiago cheese Directions Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees. In a medium bowl, toss the broccoli florets with the olive oil, garlic, pepper, and salt. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place the broccoli florets into the basket and cook for 7 minutes. Shake the basket and sprinkle the broccoli with cheese. Cook another 7 minutes. Remove from the basket and serve warm. Roasted Brussels Sprouts Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons honey 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved lengthwise 2 slices bacon, chopped 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese Directions Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. In a small saucepan, heat the vinegar and honey for 8 to 10 minutes over medium-low heat, or until the balsamic vinegar reduces by half to create a thick balsamic glazing sauce. While the balsamic glaze is reducing, in a large bowl, toss together the Brussels sprouts, bacon, garlic powder, salt, and olive oil. Pour the mixture into the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes; check for doneness. Cook another 2 to 5 minutes or until slightly crispy and tender. Pour the balsamic glaze into a serving bowl and add the cooked Brussels sprouts to the dish, stirring to coat. Top with grated parmesan cheese and serve. Fried Okra Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 pound okra 1 large egg 1 tablespoon milk 1 teaspoon salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon thyme 1/2 cup cornmeal 1/2 cup all-purpose flour Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. Cut the okra into 1/2-inch rounds. In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, milk, 1/2 teaspoon of the salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Place the okra into the egg mixture and toss until well coated. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, the paprika, the thyme, the cornmeal, and the flour. Working in small batches, dredge the egg-coated okra in the cornmeal mixture until all the okra has been breaded. Place a single layer of okra in the air fryer basket and spray with cooking spray. Cook for 4 minutes, toss to check for crispness, and cook another 4 minutes. Repeat in batches, as needed. If you’re using frozen okra, defrost and pat dry prior to using. Serve with ranch dip. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time:10 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese 1 pound asparagus, ends trimmed 8 slices bacon Directions Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees. In large bowl, mix together the olive oil, sea salt, and parmesan cheese. Toss the asparagus in the olive oil mixture. Evenly divide the asparagus into 8 bundles. Wrap 1 piece of bacon around each bundle, not overlapping the bacon but spreading it across the bundle. Place the asparagus bundles into the air fryer basket, not touching. Work in batches as needed. Cook for 8 minutes; check for doneness, and cook another 2 minutes. Note: If you’re working with thin, baby asparagus, check after 6 minutes. Parmesan Garlic Fries Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, washed 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tablespoons finely grated parmesan cheese 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. Slice the potatoes into long strips about 1/4-inch thick. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with the olive oil, garlic, cheese, pepper, and salt. Place the fries into the air fryer basket and cook for 4 minutes; shake the basket and cook another 4 minutes. Remove and serve warm. Do not stack the fries! You may need to make them in two batches to evenly cook and get that crisp texture. You can make these potatoes into wedges, too. Adjust the cooking time by 2 to 3 minutes depending on the thickness of your potatoes. You can use truffle oil in place of olive oil or your spices if you prefer.

Article / Updated 05-13-2020

Tired of feeling like the only appetizer you make is a cheese tray? We aren’t knocking that, but you can use your air fryer to create delicious, nutritious, and crowd-pleasing appetizers, and it's a lot easier than you can imagine! Egg rolls? Wontons? Tater-tots? All of these are totally attainable, and they don’t require a culinary degree to make them come to life! We’ve taken some of our dining-out favorites and turned them into easy-to-make, do-it-yourself appetizers. Who’s ready for a party? We sure are! Avocado Fries Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 8 servings Ingredients 2 medium avocados, firm but ripe 1 large egg 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup almond flour 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs Directions Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. Rinse the outside of the avocado with water. Slice the avocado in half, slice it in half again, and then slice it in half once more to get 8 slices. Remove the outer skin. Repeat for the other avocado. Set the avocado slices aside. In a small bowl, whisk the egg, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Set aside. In a separate bowl, pour the almond flour. In a third bowl, mix the parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. Carefully roll the avocado slices in the almond flour, then dip them in the egg wash, and coat them in the cheese and breadcrumb topping. Repeat until all 16 fries are coated. Liberally spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and place the avocado fries into the basket, leaving a little space around the sides between fries. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook these in batches. Cook fries for 8 minutes, or until the outer coating turns light brown. Carefully remove, repeat with remaining slices, and then serve warm. These fries are gluten-free, but you can use an all-purpose flour and traditional breadcrumb or panko coating if gluten-free isn’t a necessity for you. Serve with your favorite sauce. A yogurt-based ranch tastes great, as does a spicy sriracha! Avocado Egg Rolls Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 8 servings Ingredients 8 full-size egg roll wrappers 1 medium avocado, sliced into 8 pieces 1 cup cooked black beans, divided 1/2 cup mild salsa, divided 1/2 cup shredded Mexican cheese, divided 1/3 cup filtered water, divided 1/2 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon chipotle hot sauce Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. Place the egg roll wrapper on a flat surface and place 1 strip of avocado down in the center. Top the avocado with 2 tablespoons of black beans, 1 tablespoon of salsa, and 1 tablespoon of shredded cheese. Place two of your fingers into the water, and then moisten the four outside edges of the egg roll wrapper with water (so the outer edges will secure shut). Fold the bottom corner up, covering the filling. Then secure the sides over the top, remembering to lightly moisten them so they stick. Tightly roll the egg roll up and moisten the final flap of the wrapper and firmly press it into the egg roll to secure it shut. Repeat Steps 2–5 until all 8 egg rolls are complete. When ready to cook, spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and place the egg rolls into the basket. Depending on the size and type of air fryer you have, you may need to do this in two sets. Cook for 4 minutes, flip, and then cook the remaining 4 minutes. Repeat until all the egg rolls are cooked. Meanwhile, mix the sour cream with the hot sauce to serve as a dipping sauce. Serve warm. You can scale this recipe up or down depending on how many you’re cooking for. Slice the egg rolls in half, top with chopped cilantro, and serve on a platter with a spicy green sauce and sour cream salsa for a great presentation. Prefer a different filling? Go for it! Thai spiced ground chicken with cabbage tastes great with a peanut dipping sauce, too! Spicy Sweet Potato Tater-Tots Prep time: 1 hour 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 6 cups filtered water 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut in half 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, divided 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning Directions In a large stovetop pot, bring the water to a boil. Add the sweet potatoes and let boil about 10 minutes, until a metal fork prong can be inserted but the potatoes still have a slight give (not completely mashed). Carefully remove the potatoes from the pot and let cool. When you’re able to touch them, grate the potatoes into a large bowl. Mix the garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of the black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of the salt into the potatoes. Place the mixture in the refrigerator and let set at least 45 minutes (if you’re leaving them longer than 45 minutes, cover the bowl). Before assembling, mix the breadcrumbs and blackened seasoning in a small bowl. Remove the sweet potatoes from the refrigerator and preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. Assemble the tater-tots by using a teaspoon to portion batter evenly and form into a tater-tot shape. Roll each tater-tot in the breadcrumb mixture. Then carefully place the tater-tots in the air fryer basket. Be sure that you’ve liberally sprayed the air fryer basket with an olive oil mist. Repeat until tater-tots fill the basket without touching one another. You’ll need to do multiple batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Cook the tater-tots for 3 to 6 minutes, flip, and cook another 3 to 6 minutes. Remove from the air fryer carefully and keep warm until ready to serve. Air fryer temperatures vary. Keep an eye on the tater-tots and flip them when the breading is browned. To reheat leftover tater-tots, use the air fryer and cook at 350 degrees until ready to serve. Prefer a cinnamon sugar tater-tot? Nix the garlic, pepper, and Cajun seasoning and use 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 teaspoons of sugar in the tater-tot, with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 2 tablespoons of cane sugar in the panko breading. Homemade Pretzel Bites Prep time: 1 hour 5 minutes Cook time: 6 minutes Yield: 8 servings Ingredients 4-3/4 cups filtered water, divided 1 tablespoon butter 1 package fast-rising yeast 1/2 teaspoon salt 2-1/3 cups bread flour 2 tablespoons baking soda 2 egg whites 1 teaspoon kosher salt Directions Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. In a large microwave-safe bowl, add 3/4 cup of the water. Heat for 40 seconds in the microwave. Remove and whisk in the butter; then mix in the yeast and salt. Let sit 5 minutes. Using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, add the yeast liquid and mix in the bread flour 1/3 cup at a time until all the flour is added and a dough is formed. Remove the bowl from the stand; then let the dough rise 1 hour in a warm space, covered with a kitchen towel. After the dough has doubled in size, remove from the bowl and punch down a few times on a lightly floured flat surface. Divide the dough into 4 balls; then roll each ball out into a long, skinny, sticklike shape. Using a sharp knife, cut each dough stick into 6 pieces. Repeat Step 6 for the remaining dough balls until you have about 24 bites formed. Heat the remaining 4 cups of water over the stovetop in a medium pot with the baking soda stirred in. Drop the pretzel bite dough into the hot water and let boil for 60 seconds, remove, and let slightly cool. Lightly brush the top of each bite with the egg whites, and then cover with a pinch of kosher salt. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray and place the pretzel bites on top. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, or until lightly browned. Remove and keep warm. Repeat until all pretzel bites are cooked. Serve warm. If you’re tight on time, nix the boiling water part. The only difference is you won’t have that browned texture to the outside of the pretzel bite. They still taste delicious, though! Serve with a cheese sauce or spicy mustard dressing. For a dessert pretzel, toss the pretzel bites in a cinnamon-sugar blend before air frying. Panko-Breaded Onion Rings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 large sweet onion, cut into 1/2-inch slices and rings separated 2 cups ice water 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1 egg, whisked 2 tablespoons milk 1 cup breadcrumbs Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. In a large bowl, soak the onion rings in the water for 5 minutes. Drain and pat dry with a towel. In a medium bowl, place the flour, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. In a second bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs. To bread the onion rings, dip them first into the flour mixture, then into the egg mixture (shaking off the excess), and then into the breadcrumbs. Place the coated onion rings onto a plate while you bread all the rings. Place the onion rings into the air fryer basket in a single layer, sometimes nesting smaller rings into larger rings. Spray with cooking spray. Cook for 3 minutes, turn the rings over, and spray with more cooking spray. Cook for another 3 to 5 minutes. Cook the rings in batches; you may need to do 2 or 3 batches, depending on the size of your air fryer. Serve with a variety of dips, from ranch dressing to ketchup to barbecue sauce. Crispy Wontons Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Yield: 8 servings Ingredients 1/2 cup refried beans 3 tablespoons salsa 1/4 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and patted dry 1/4 cup frozen spinach, defrosted and squeezed dry 2 ounces cream cheese 1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano, divided 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese 1 tablespoon grated parmesan 2 ounces cream cheese 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 32 wontons 1 cup water Directions Preheat the air fryer to 370 degrees. In a medium bowl, mix together the refried beans and salsa. In a second medium bowl, mix together the artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. In a third medium bowl, mix together the pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of oregano. Get a towel lightly damp with water and ring it out. While working with the wontons, leave the unfilled wontons under the damp towel so they don’t dry out. Working with 8 wontons at a time, place 2 teaspoons of one of the fillings into the center of the wonton, rotating among the different fillings (one filling per wonton). Working one at a time, use a pastry brush, dip the pastry brush into the water, and brush the edges of the dough with the water. Fold the dough in half to form a triangle and set aside. Continue until 8 wontons are formed. Spray the wontons with cooking spray and cover with a dry towel. Repeat until all 32 wontons have been filled. Place the wontons into the air fryer basket, leaving space between the wontons, and cook for 5 minutes. Turn over and check for brownness, and then cook for another 5 minutes. This recipe can satisfy a range of guests at a party, from vegetarians to kids. This is also a great recipe to get kids cooking. Let them help from start to finish! Serve the wontons filled with refried beans and salsa with a ranch dressing or Mexican crema. Serve the other two varieties of wontons with a marinara dipping sauce. The sky’s the limit with what you fill in wonton wrappers, from something sweet like fruit jam to something savory and meaty. Get creative and have fun!

Article / Updated 05-12-2020

If you aren’t a breakfast person, that just might change when you have an air fryer! The breakfast recipes here aren’t your traditional breakfast fare (although you’ll find some of those, too.) Think outside the bowl with savory eats like Egg and Sausage Crescent Rolls or Breakfast Chimichangas. Prefer something sweet to go with your morning cup of joe? We’ve got that, too. From Apple Fritters to Coffee Cake, there are endless possibilities to satisfy your sweet treat with a healthy air-fried twist! Crispy Bacon Prep time: 2 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 12 ounces bacon Directions Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees for 3 minutes. Lay out the bacon in a single layer, slightly overlapping the strips of bacon. Air fry for 10 minutes or until desired crispness. Repeat until all the bacon has been cooked. Sizes of air fryers vary. If you overcrowd the pan, it may take longer to cook. If smokiness is an issue, try adding 1 tablespoon of water to the drip pan or bottom of the air fryer prior to cooking. Air fryers vary, so be sure to watch yours closely as you cook bacon the first time; yours may cook faster than we’ve estimated. If you enjoy a sweet bacon, use a pastry brush to add a touch of maple syrup to the bacon after cooking. Breakfast Chimichangas Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients Four 8-inch flour tortillas 1/2 cup canned refried beans 1 cup scrambled eggs 1/2 cup grated cheddar or Monterey jack cheese 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 cup salsa Directions Lay the flour tortillas out flat on a cutting board. In the center of each tortilla, spread 2 tablespoons refried beans. Next, add 1/4 cup eggs and 2 tablespoons cheese to each tortilla. To fold the tortillas, begin on the left side and fold to the center (see the following figure). Then fold the right side into the center. Next fold the bottom and top down and roll over to completely seal the chimichanga. Using a pastry brush or oil mister, brush the tops of the tortilla packages with oil. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees for 4 minutes. Place the chimichangas into the air fryer basket, seam side down, and air fry for 4 minutes. Using tongs, turn over the chimichangas and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes or until light golden brown. Serve with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream for a hearty breakfast. Swap out beans with breakfast potatoes or rice. Egg and Sausage Crescent Rolls Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 11 minutes Yield: 8 servings Ingredients 5 large eggs 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon milk 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese One 8-ounce package refrigerated crescent rolls 4 tablespoon pesto sauce 8 fully cooked breakfast sausage links, defrosted Directions Preheat the air fryer to 320 degrees. In a medium bowl, crack the eggs and whisk with the pepper, salt, and milk. Pour into a frying pan over medium heat and scramble. Just before the eggs are done, turn off the heat and add in the cheese. Continue to cook until the cheese has melted and the eggs are finished (about 5 minutes total). Remove from the heat. Remove the crescent rolls from the package and press them flat onto a clean surface lightly dusted with flour. Add 1-1/2 teaspoons of pesto sauce across the center of each roll. Place equal portions of eggs across all 8 rolls. Then top each roll with a sausage link and roll the dough up tight so it resembles the crescent-roll shape. Lightly spray your air fryer basket with olive oil mist and place the rolls on top. Bake for 6 minutes or until the tops of the rolls are lightly browned. Remove and let cool 3 to 5 minutes before serving. The rolls will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer to get that crispy, crunchy consistency. Prefer to go vegetarian? Nix the sausage and add finely chopped vegetables to the scrambled eggs instead. Apple Fritters Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 12 minutes Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon cinnamon 1 large Granny Smith apple, cored, peeled, and finely chopped 1/4 cup chopped walnuts 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1 tablespoon milk Directions Preheat the air fryer to 320 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, add the brown sugar, vanilla, yogurt, cinnamon, apples, and walnuts. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet, using your hands to combine, until all the ingredients are mixed together. Knead the mixture in the bowl about 4 times. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Divide the batter into 6 equally sized balls; then lightly flatten them and place inside the basket. Repeat until all the fritters are formed. Place the basket in the air fryer and cook for 6 minutes, flip, and then cook another 6 minutes. While the fritters are cooking, in a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with the milk. Set aside. When the cooking completes, remove the air fryer basket and allow the fritters to cool on a wire rack. Drizzle with the homemade glaze and serve. Some air fryers get hotter than others. If your air fryer isn’t as hot, increase the temperature to 350 degrees and cook as directed. Make ahead of time and wrap in a nice gift box to deliver for a fun treat! You can use peaches instead of apples and pecans instead of walnuts for a Peach Pecan Fritter! French Toast Sticks Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 2 eggs 1/4 cup half-and-half 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 6 slices wheat bread, cut into 1-inch strips 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 tablespoons granulated sugar Maple syrup or pureed strawberries for serving Directions In an 8-x-12-inch casserole dish, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, and vanilla. Lay the strips of bread into the baking dish and flip around. Allow the bread to soak up the egg mixture for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, stir together the cinnamon and sugar. Place the soaked bread strips into the air fryer basket, not touching one another. Spray with cooking spray and sprinkle the cinnamon and sugar mixture onto the bread sticks. Air fry the French toast sticks at 370 degrees for 8 minutes. Cook in batches, as needed. Serve with maple syrup or pureed strawberries. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do multiple batches. Add orange zest and cardamom. Or keep it fun for the kids and blend fresh or frozen fruits for a rainbow of dips. Pigs in a Blanket Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 10 servings Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for rolling 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 cup salted butter, cut into small pieces 1/2 cup buttermilk 10 fully cooked breakfast sausage links Directions In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Using your fingers or a pastry blender, cut in the butter until you have small pea-size crumbles. Using a rubber spatula, make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour the buttermilk into the well, and fold the mixture together until you form a dough ball. Place the sticky dough onto a floured surface and, using a floured rolling pin, roll out until 1/2-inch thick. Using a round biscuit cutter, cut out 10 rounds, reshaping the dough and rolling out, as needed. Place 1 fully cooked breakfast sausage link on the left edge of each biscuit and roll up, leaving the ends slightly exposed. Using a pastry brush, brush the biscuits with the whisked eggs, and spray them with cooking spray. Place the pigs in a blanket into the air fryer basket with at least 1 inch between each biscuit. Set the air fryer to 340 degrees and cook for 8 minutes. Don’t have buttermilk? No worries! Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice or white vinegar to a liquid measuring cup and fill to the 1/2 cup mark with milk, stir, and you’re ready to use as buttermilk. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do more batches. No sausage on hand? Opt for ham and cheese instead. For a vegetarian alternative, use vegetarian sausage links instead of traditional sausage links. Coffee Cake Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes Yield: 8 servings Ingredients 4 tablespoons butter, melted and divided 1/3 cup cane sugar 1/4 cup brown sugar 1 large egg 1 cup plus 6 teaspoons milk, divided 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 cups all-purpose flour 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1/3 cup chopped pecans 1/3 cup powdered sugar Directions Preheat the air fryer to 325 degrees. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, in a medium bowl, cream together the butter, cane sugar, brown sugar, the egg, 1 cup of the milk, and the vanilla. Set aside. In a small bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Slowly combine the dry ingredients into the wet. Fold in the pecans. Liberally spray a 7-inch springform pan with cooking spray. Pour the batter into the pan and place in the air fryer basket. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. While the cake is baking, in a small bowl, add the powdered sugar and whisk together with the remaining 6 teaspoons of milk. Set aside. When the cake is done baking, remove the pan from the basket and let cool on a wire rack. After 10 minutes, remove and invert the cake from pan. Drizzle with the powdered sugar glaze and serve. The cake will keep in an airtight container on the counter for 3 days or in the fridge for about a week. Have an oven-safe Bundt cake pan that will fit in your air fryer basket? Try using that to create a fun, bakery-like feel! Add in chocolate chips, dried raisins, or your favorite nut.

Article / Updated 05-12-2020

To help show you how you can make some of the most basic breads in your air fryer, we’ve tested out our favorites. From muffins to scones, bagels and breads, rolls and naan, there’s something for everyone in this article. Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked bread? We sure do, and we’re hoping you feel the same way! You can make most of these breads using gluten-free flours, but some of the properties that make these basic breads so delicious revolve around the gluten in the flours we’ve used. So, although we encourage you to try these out with whatever gluten-free flour you prefer, we recommend you start with smaller batches until you get the right combination of ingredients that work best for you. We found variations among various brands of air fryers during the testing process. Some brands run hotter than others, so when baking it’s important to watch the bread closely. Consider checking for doneness sooner than the recipes in these recipes instruct, especially if you know your machine runs hotter. Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 14 minutes Yield: 12 servings Ingredients 2 medium bananas, mashed 1/4 cup brown sugar 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2/3 cup milk 2 tablespoons butter 1 large egg 1 cup white whole-wheat flour 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/8 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips Directions Preheat the air fryer to 330 degrees. In a large bowl, combine the bananas, brown sugar, vanilla extract, milk, butter, and egg; set aside. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, folding in the flour mixture 1/3 cup at a time. Mix in the chocolate chips and set aside. Using silicone muffin liners, fill 6 muffin liners two-thirds full. Carefully place the muffin liners in the air fryer basket and bake for 20 minutes (or until the tops are browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean). Carefully remove the muffins from the basket and repeat with the remaining batter. Serve warm. Store in an airtight container on the counter for up to 5 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for 3 months. English Scones Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 8 minutes Yield: 8 servings Ingredients 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 tablespoons sugar 1/4 cup unsalted butter 2/3 cup plus 1 tablespoon whole milk, divided Directions Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, cut in the butter until pea-size crumbles appear. Make a well in the center and pour in 2/3 cup of the milk. Quickly mix the batter until a ball forms. Knead the dough 3 times. Place the dough onto a floured surface and, using your hands or a rolling pin, flatten the dough until it’s 3/4 inch thick. Using a biscuit cutter or drinking glass, cut out 10 circles, reforming the dough and flattening as needed to use up the batter. Brush the tops lightly with the remaining 1 tablespoon of milk. Place the scones into the air fryer basket. Cook for 8 minutes or until golden brown and cooked in the center. Store in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days or in the freezer for 3 months. Keep things cold! From the flour to the butter to the milk, the colder everything is, the better the scones will turn out. Serve with fresh jam and whipped honey butter. Or go savory with cream cheese and chives. Add in 1/2 cup fresh blueberries and lemon zest for berry scones. Or try a savory scone with cheddar cheese. Mini Everything Bagels Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 6 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup plain Greek yogurt 1 egg, whisked 1 teaspoon sesame seeds 1 teaspoon dehydrated onions 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon sea salt flakes Directions In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in the dough and add in the Greek yogurt. Mix with a spoon until a dough forms. Place the dough onto a heavily floured surface and knead for 3 minutes. You may use up to 1 cup of additional flour as you knead the dough, if necessary. Cut the dough into 8 pieces and roll each piece into a 6-inch, snakelike piece. Touch the ends of each piece together so it closes the circle and forms a bagel shape. Brush the tops of the bagels with the whisked egg. In a small bowl, combine the sesame seeds, dehydrated onions, poppy seeds, garlic powder, and sea salt flakes. Sprinkle the seasoning on top of the bagels. Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees. Using a bench scraper or flat-edged spatula, carefully place the bagels into the air fryer basket. Spray the bagel tops with cooking spray. Air-fry the bagels for 6 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the bread to cool at least 10 minutes before slicing for serving. Store in an airtight container on the counter for up to 2 days. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do 2 or 3 batches. Keep your hands and surface heavily floured while kneading the dough. The dough should not stick to your hands when it’s ready to roll out. Craving something sweet? Knead in raisins and top with cinnamon and sugar instead. Also, if you want to up the fiber and nutrients content, you can use whole-wheat pastry flour instead of all-purpose flour. Zucchini Walnut Bread Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 large egg 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup canola oil 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/3 cup milk 1 medium zucchini, shredded (about 1-1/3 cups) 1/3 cup chopped walnuts Directions Preheat the air fryer to 320 degrees. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, oil, vanilla, and milk. Stir in the zucchini. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Stir in the chopped walnuts. Then pour the batter into two 4-inch oven-safe loaf pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before slicing. Store tightly wrapped on the counter for up to 5 days, in the refrigerator for up to 10 days, or in the freezer for 3 months. For a healthier bread with more fiber, use white whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Like a chocolaty taste? Mix in 1/3 cup chocolate chips! Classic Cinnamon Rolls Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 6 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon granulated sugar 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 4 tablespoons butter, divided 1/2 cup buttermilk 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup powdered sugar 2 tablespoons milk Directions Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in 3 tablespoons of the butter with a pastry blender or two knives until coarse crumbs remain. Stir in the buttermilk until a dough forms. Place the dough onto a floured surface and roll out into a square shape about 1/2 inch thick. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the microwave for 20 seconds. Using a pastry brush or your fingers, spread the melted butter onto the dough. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture across the surface of the dough. Roll the dough up, forming a long log. Using a pastry cutter or sharp knife, cut 10 cinnamon rolls. Carefully place the cinnamon rolls into the air fryer basket. Then bake at 360 degrees for 6 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk. Plate the cinnamon rolls and drizzle the glaze over the surface before serving. Store without glaze in an airtight container on the counter for up to 3 days, in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or in the freezer for 3 months. Add in chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch. Parmesan Garlic Naan Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 4 minutes Yield: 6 servings Ingredients 1 cup bread flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 tablespoon shredded parmesan cheese 1 cup plain 2% fat Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Directions Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees. In a medium bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and cheese. Mix the yogurt into the flour, using your hands to combine if necessary. On a flat surface covered with flour, divide the dough into 6 equal balls and roll each out into a 4-inch-diameter circle. Lightly brush both sides of each naan with olive oil and place one naan at a time into the basket. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes (or until the bread begins to rise and brown on the outside). Remove and repeat for the remaining breads. Serve warm. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat the naan in the air fryer for 2 minutes at 400 degrees. Add in your favorite cheese or spices to create your own flavor. Mozzarella cheese, basil, and sundried tomatoes make a fun pizza naan flavor.

Article / Updated 05-12-2020

If you’re new to air frying, this article is for you! Here, we explore the mechanisms involved in air frying foods and show you how to use your air fryer. After reading this article, you’ll feel confident and clear on how to air fry your food! Also provided is a no-nonsense guide to the pros and cons of air frying, so you know what you’re getting into. When was the last time you enjoyed a decadent meal at a fair? You know the kind of food we’re talking about: those greasy, fun foods you only get once every few years, the ones that bring you back to your childhood memories of late summer nights spent underneath the starlit sky with your best friends. More often than not, the cooking method used to make those foods was deep frying. Although deep frying has its purposes (it’s an efficient way to cook a large volume of food quickly), it isn’t the best when it comes to health. For years, engineers spent countless hours trying to come up with a user-friendly machine that would satisfy consumer desire for those rich and crispy fried foods, but they had a tough time replicating an appliance that could check all the boxes. Everything changed in 2010 when a man with a vision, Fred van der Weij from Philips, finally saw it come to life, and the air fryer, as we’ve come to know it today, was born! Since then, many companies have brought similar air fryer models to market, designed to cook foods in a similar way. In this article, we take a closer look into what air frying actually entails. How air frying works Have you ever seen one of those money machines, where someone steps inside a cylinder, closes the door, and air starts flowing up from the bottom with money flying through the air? An air fryer is kind of like one of those money machines. When you put your food into the air fryer and close it, hot air circulates around the food and begins to cook it. The temperature of the air fryer and the type of food you’re cooking will help determine the amount of time you need to cook your recipe. The big difference between air frying and traditional deep frying is that air fryers require minimal to no oil to cook the food. The hot air circulating around the food helps to impart that crisp texture instead of the oil involved in deep frying. A few other technologically advanced mechanisms are involved, but this is the gist of how air frying works. If you’re familiar with convection ovens, where hot air is circulated (as opposed to conventional ovens, where the heating element is on the bottom), you’ll feel right at home with air frying. An air fryer is essentially a compact convection oven. If you want to get a bit more science based, what’s actually happening from a chemical perspective when food is cooked in an air fryer is something called the Maillard reaction. The Maillard reaction is often referred to as “non-enzymatic browning,” or basically a reaction that happens between sugars and amino acids in a recipe that result in the end product taking on a new flavor, texture, and color. Different models on the market Just like most big kitchen appliances on the market today, the air fryer has lots of options. There is a make and model out there that will suit your needs and preferences. Here are the big factors that separate them: Price: Air fryers can range anywhere from $50 to over $300, depending on what you’re looking for. Air fryers at the higher end of the price range usually have more bells and whistles, as well as a higher wattage. We’ve tested out $60 models and $200 models and can honestly say we’ve had similar experiences with both. Bottom line: You can produce a quality, air-fried food with any air fryer. Size: Are you cooking for yourself? Two? Four? More? The more mouths you have to feed, the bigger the air fryer you’ll want to look for. Most models have about a 3- to 6-quart fill capacity, but some of the larger models on the market can hold up to 16 quarts. When you decide on how much counterspace you have and how many you’ll typically be cooking for, you’ll know the right model to choose. Each of us has three mouths to feed in our homes and the 3-quart models work well for us. Plus, we’ve used 3-quart models before for entertaining family and friends and even with doubling the recipe, it still was efficient and quick to use. Style of cooking: Say what? Yes, the type of cooking style will really be a huge deciding factor in choosing which model to buy. There are three main styles of air fryers you’ll find on the market: Paddle type: Typically, a self-turning fryer in which you add the cooking oil to the pan alongside the food. Basket type: A drop-in basket that traditionally calls for multiple shakes within the cooking cycle. This type of air fryer requires a little more attention during the cooking process, but it’s also a lot less expensive than the other varieties. Countertop oven: This model resembles a toaster oven and has multiple uses. Depending on the make and model, they’re fairly inexpensive and they usually allow for a greater volume of food to be cooked at one time than the basket types do. We’ve tried the basket and countertop oven styles and found both fairly comparable. The only word of caution we have for the countertop oven models is this: Sometimes the heat doesn’t disperse as evenly, requiring the items in the back of the air fryer to be rotated more frequently to avoid overcooking. The benefits of air frying Air frying is not only a healthier way to cook some more decadent recipes, but it’s also efficient. Many popular models of air fryers claim that using an air fryer instead of a deep fryer can lower the fat of the dish by over 75 percent. This actually makes sense when you think about. Let’s say you’re going to make homemade fried chicken. If you were to use the deep-frying method of cooking, you’d traditionally need more than 3 cups of oil to cover the chicken to allow the cooking to ensue. On the other hand, if you were to use the air frying method, you’d need less than a tablespoon of oil. Not convinced yet? No problem! Here are a few other benefits of air frying: Air fryers can promote weight loss (for certain individuals). For individuals who currently have a highly processed diet filled with deep-fried foods, switching to air frying will certainly help with reducing caloric intake. A reduction in caloric intake will inevitably result in weight loss. Air fryers can increase consumption of healthy foods, like fish, shrimp, and produce. Eating seafood at least twice a week, as well as increasing your consumption of fruits and vegetables, is highly recommended. If you struggle with getting your family to eat more of these foods on a regular basis, then air frying may be the best way to change their appetites (and minds!). Not only can you put a light crunchy coating of heart-healthy nuts on some of your fried seafood favorites and cook them in the air fryer, but you can do the same with new herbs, spices, and vegetables! This is a great way to explore new vegetables and flavors in your kitchen, too. Air fryers are safer (for the most part) than deep fryers. Deep frying can cause splatters of exceptionally hot oil all over your kitchen. Air fryers get super-hot as well, but they don’t splatter in the same way a deep fryer does. As long as you practice important safety measures when taking foods in and out of your fryer (for example, don’t put your hands on the fryer basket), you can feel secure in using your fryer. Air fryers can reduce the risk of potentially harmful agents on certain foods. A compound called acrylamide naturally forms on carbohydrate-rich foods (those traditionally deep-fried foods like french fries, breaded meats, and so on) when cooked at high temperatures. Some studies have found an association between acrylamide and cancer. The jury’s still out on whether acrylamide actually causes (You can read more about it at the website of the American Cancer Society. What you need to know is that air frying is associated with a decreased amount of this compound as compared to deep frying, but some may still be present. We firmly believe in balance and moderation. We wouldn’t recommend you eat french fries (even air-fried ones) daily. Air fryers can reduce the risk of preventable diseases affected by diet and nutrition. This varies depending on many factors like your genetics and current lifestyle habits (such as nutrition and exercise). That said, if your diet is heavy in processed, fried foods, the air fryer may just be the ticket to enjoying the foods you crave in a new, exciting, and healthier way. Not only can you modify the amount of sodium in your recipes and use more fresh herbs and spices to give flavor to the food instead of salt, but you can also increase the fiber in your diet while including more plants in your meal plan. Using Your Air Fryer Each make and model of air fryer has its own instructions, but air fryers don’t require extensive knowledge to operate. We recommend that you start by reading the manual that came with your air fryer and getting to know your particular machine. With that said, here are a few basic steps that work for all machines: Clean the air fryer basket and accessories (if they came with your air fryer) with hot soapy water and dry with a dish towel before use. Plug in your air fryer and preheat it. This allows the machine time to get to temperature before you actually put the recipe inside. If applicable, select Air Fry as the function. Some models have a variety of selections to choose from such as Dehydrate, Roast, and so on. Place your food on the wire rack or trivet, securely seal or close the drawer, and begin to air fry. Check the food as applicable, following the recipe instructions. When cooking completes, press Cancel and unplug the air fryer. Caring for Your Air Fryer You don’t have to invest in any specific detergent or cleanser to keep your air fryer smelling like new. Use this section as your guide to keep your new kitchen appliance in tip-top shape so you can use it for years to come. How to clean an air fryer Cleaning your air fryer is actually a really simple task. With a little elbow grease, some regular dish detergent, and hot water, your air fryer will come back to life, even with the toughest of buildup. We’ve experimented with various makes and models and had our fair share of epic disasters in our air fryers (think: cream cheese melted with panko all over the baking tray), but guess what? After letting the basket and/or tray cool, we were easily able to get the buildup off with a regular kitchen sponge and hot soapy water. Plus, even when switching between seafood and a decadent dessert, the air fryer doesn’t require a deep clean. Wipe down the outside of your fryer after each use. A hot, soapy towel is all that’s necessary. This helps get off any grease or food particles that may have latched on during cooking. Your air fryer manual may say that the parts to wash are dishwasher safe, but we recommend that you hand wash them instead. Why? Because hand washing will keep your air fryer in better shape than putting it through the wear and tear of the dishwasher. Just spend 5 minutes to give it a thorough hand wash after each use, and you’ll have a properly working air fryer for years to come. Storing your air fryer You can purchase a snazzy air fryer cover online, but this isn’t necessary. We store our air fryers on the countertop because we use them more frequently than most. Unfortunately, many models are too bulky for under-the-counter storage. Wherever you choose to store your air fryer, just be sure to put it in an area of your kitchen that isn’t near your stovetop or oven so you don’t get the residual grease from your day-to-day cooking building up on the outside of it. Avoid storing air fryer tools inside the air fryer. It’s too easy to plug in your air fryer, forgetting to check the basket first, only to find that you’ve air-fried your tools. Instead, find a nice, safe spot to store all the useful kitchen gadgets to accompany your machine. Air Fryer Safety Precautions You can take a variety of steps to help keep you and your family safe when using your air fryer. Use this list as a guide to practice safe air frying: Use your air fryer in an open space. Even if you have a tight kitchen space, when you’re using your air fryer, make sure to place it in an area that doesn’t have a cupboard or other cabinet above. This way, the heat produced from the high-temperature cooking won’t cause your cabinets to get too hot. Use oven mitts when removing the basket and/or trays from your air fryer. You don’t need special air fryer oven mitts — just use whatever you have on hand that allows you to safely grasp the air fryer basket, tray, or even kitchen tools that you’ve used to make your recipe. Allow food to cool before tasting it. This may be challenging, especially when the aroma of the dish envelops your kitchen. But, trust us, resist! Trying foods that are too hot may result in a severe burn on the roof of your mouth. Don’t consume breaded and coated foods more than twice a week. “Limit not eliminate” is our motto when it comes to these kinds of foods. Avoid spraying cooking spray on the air fryer basket. Most cooking sprays on the market contain chemicals that can corrode the material used in the air fryer baskets. A simply mist of olive oil is enough to prevent your food from sticking while also still limiting the amount of oil used in comparison to deep frying. Invest in a mister that you can insert your own oil into. Invest in a BPA-free air fryer. To ensure that you’re cooking in the safest model of air fryer possible, make sure your air fryer is BPA free before taking it for a spin. This is easily identifiable on the product specification sheet or website for the brand. BPA is one of a few chemicals used in plastics that can be hazardous to your health.