Expert warns against the one food item you should never cook in an air fryer!
Air fryers have revolutionized the way many of us cook, offering a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. They’ve become a go-to appliance for everything from crispy fries to reheating leftovers. However, air fryer experts have issued a warning about one popular food item you should never attempt to cook in your air fryer.
Popcorn and Air Fryers Don’t Mix
While it’s tempting to use your air fryer for popcorn to save time and reduce the mess, experts strongly advise against it. Grace Forell, a consumer journalist for Which?, shared her concerns about attempting to pop popcorn in an air fryer during an appearance on BBC Morning Live.
“Popcorn won’t cook well in an air fryer as most models won’t reach the required temperature to pop the kernels,” she explained. “Popcorn kernels can also become lodged within the air fryer’s heating element, which may cause the appliance to short, creating a fire hazard.”
Why It Doesn’t Work
One major reason why air fryers are ill-suited for popcorn is that they do not consistently reach the high temperatures necessary for kernels to pop. In addition, the unique design of an air fryer, with its circulating hot air, makes it difficult for the kernels to evenly heat up and pop. Many users have tried and failed, resulting in unpopped kernels and sometimes burnt ones.
The Fire Risk
The fire risk is another key concern. Popcorn kernels, when not fully popped, can become stuck in the heating element, potentially causing a short circuit. This could lead to a dangerous fire hazard, making it a risky choice for air fryer enthusiasts.
Real-Life Experiences
Despite warnings, many people have experimented with cooking popcorn in their air fryers. A Reddit user, seeking advice on how to safely cook popcorn in an air fryer, was met with an overwhelming amount of discouraging responses. One commenter described their own frustration with kernels getting lodged in the fan, while others shared their experience with burnt popcorn that left an unpleasant smell.
“I’m telling you, not from theory, but actual experience, that the air fryer does not work for popping kernels,” one user said. “400°F gets me right there on the edge, but not over the popping threshold.”
Better Methods for Popcorn
While air fryers are amazing for many dishes, they are not suitable for popcorn. Forell suggests sticking with more reliable methods such as the microwave or stovetop to achieve perfectly popped popcorn. These methods ensure the kernels are evenly heated, and there’s less risk of disaster.
Stick to Safer Methods
For those settling in for a movie night, it’s best to stick with traditional popcorn-making methods. While the air fryer might work wonders for other meals, it’s not the best tool for popping corn. Stay safe and enjoy your snack with minimal hassle by using a microwave or stovetop instead.
