For many home cooks, the air fryer has joined the Instant Pot and KitchenAid stand mixer as a countertop essential. Whether you're cooking under a time crunch, have run out of oven space, or want a healthier spin on a deep-fried recipe, air fryers can come in handy. Show As with other beloved kitchen tools, the first thing you should figure out is what you can — and subsequently, cannot — do. Before you get cooking, it's important to learn what can safely go in an air fryer, including a common household item: aluminum foil. How does an air fryer work?According to chef Meredith Laurence of Blue Jean Chef, an air fryer is simply a compact, countertop convection oven that crisps and browns food quickly. There is, however, one key difference between this appliance and a traditional oven. "There's a fan that blows hot air right next to a heating element, while in a regular oven, a fan blows hot air all around, but it's not in direct relationship to the element," Laurence says. "So in an air fryer that convection cooking is way more intense and way more direct." Use aluminum foil in the basket of your air fryer"If you can put something in an oven, you can put it into an air fryer, " says Laurence — and that includes aluminum foil. So, if you're typically one to sidestep an oven mess with this added layer, it's also safe to use in an air fryer, but there are a few tips to adhere to. The golden rule of using foil in an air fryer is to only put it in the basket. If placed in the bottom of the drawer, it could get blown around and ultimately dislodge. In the worst-case scenario, the foil could blow onto the heating element, overheat, and potentially start a fire. Never preheat the air fryer with a foil-lined basket. Avoid placing acidic foods on aluminumWhen you're using foil with any heating appliance, there are certain foods to steer clear of. Aluminum is a reactive surface and it can react negatively with highly acidic ingredients. "They react with the foil and start to break it down, so you'll actually have aluminum in your food," she says. "Aside from the fact that that's not palatable, it's also not very good for you." Tips for using foil in your air fryerHere are three tips to use aluminum foil in your air fryer safely and effectively:
Consider trying parchment paperLaurence recommends using parchment paper over foil when possible since it's not a reactive surface and food is less likely to stick the paper. Plus, it's better for the environment. Retailers even sell perforated parchment paper with circles specifically designed for air fryers. "Always opt for parchment paper over foil, except when you want to elevate your food or if you're using that foil as a sling," Laurence says. "Otherwise use the foil when the food comes out to keep it warm, but that's about it." Insider's takeawayPutting foil in an air fryer is completely acceptable as long as you adhere to certain safety protocols. But ultimately, foil isn't the most ideal cooking sheet to use in the air fryer. Using a bare basket or one covered in perforated parchment paper is the best option.
Antonia is a lifestyle and food writer from South Florida. She received a journalism degree from Boston University and loves everything about city living. Aside from contributing to INSIDER, Antonia writes for the TODAY Show, Apartment Therapy, Food52, and Bustle. When not writing, you'll find her in the kitchen aspiring to reach Barefoot Contessa status, walking on the beach, or watching rom-com marathons. Read more Read less |