When to use parchment paper or aluminium foil with your air fryer?
Choosing between parchment paper and aluminum foil for use with an air fryer depends on the specific recipe and desired outcome:
Parchment paper is ideal for lining the air fryer basket when cooking foods that are prone to sticking, such as delicate items like fish fillets or baked goods. It prevents food from sticking to the basket, making cleanup easier. Parchment paper also allows for better airflow around the food, helping it to cook evenly. Baking items like cookies, pastries, or fish fillets in the air fryer.
Aluminium Foil can be used in the air fryer to create packets or wraps for foods that need to be contained or shielded from direct heat. Foil helps to trap moisture and flavors, making it suitable for cooking foods that need to be steamed or roasted. It can also prevent certain foods from overcooking or drying out. Wrapping foods like vegetables, potatoes, or fish in foil packets, or creating a foil barrier to shield delicate items from direct heat.
However, it's essential to use these materials properly to ensure safe cooking in the air fryer:
- When using parchment paper, be sure to place a sufficient amount of food to hold the paper down, otherwise the paper might catch fire if it is blown around and touches the heating element.
- The paper should be no higher than half the inner height of the fryer.
- For solid foods, it is not recommended to use any paper or foil as it will increase cooking time, and the accumulated grease may affect the taste.
Ultimately, the choice between parchment paper and aluminum foil depends on the specific cooking needs of the recipe and personal preference. Experimenting with both materials can help determine which works best for different types of foods and cooking methods in the air fryer.
