Are You Overusing Your Air Fryer? Experts Reveal What NOT to Cook and When to Stick to the Oven
Technological innovation has brought major changes to the way we cook, and few kitchen gadgets have earned the kind of love that air fryers now enjoy. Once considered a novelty, these countertop devices are now a staple in millions of homes, often replacing ovens, toasters, and even slow cookers. Their appeal is simple: fast cooking, less oil, and crispy results—what’s not to love?
Using high-speed circulating hot air, air fryers simulate the effect of deep frying but with little to no oil. The result is often crispier, healthier meals made in a fraction of the time. But are they truly the best option for all your culinary needs?
The Hidden Downsides of Air Frying
As popular as air fryers have become, culinary experts and consumer advocates are speaking out about their limitations. Despite their versatility, air fryers aren’t foolproof—and not all foods are ideal for this method of cooking.
Take popcorn, for example. Though it seems like a quick snack idea, experts strongly advise against using an air fryer to pop corn kernels. The intense air circulation can cause unpopped kernels to become airborne and wedge themselves into the heating element. This not only damages your appliance but can also become a serious fire hazard.
Another common misstep? Trying to recreate fried chicken with wet batter. Unlike deep fryers that submerge food in hot oil to instantly set the batter, air fryers lack that flash-cooking power. The result? Soggy, uneven coating and a disappointing dinner.
Additionally, delicate foods like cheese, leafy greens, and whole grains like rice or pasta also struggle in an air fryer. Cheese melts into a messy puddle, greens can blow around and burn, and grains simply won’t cook properly without moisture.
Energy Efficiency: A Double-Edged Sword?
While many people turn to air fryers as a way to save energy, financial expert Martin Lewis recently cautioned that the savings aren’t always so clear-cut.
Speaking on This Morning, Lewis explained: “Air fryers are brilliant for small portions and quick results, but if you’re using it multiple times for different foods, it might be more energy-efficient to simply use a conventional oven.” He added that repeated small batches not only cost more in energy over time but also stretch out total cooking time, cancelling out any convenience gained.
Steven Kipling, consumer tech analyst at Which?, echoed Lewis’s advice. He highlighted that while air fryers work wonders for quick meals, their limited capacity can become a drawback—especially for larger households or when batch cooking is required. “You’ll likely find yourself cooking in rounds, which takes time and may not be more cost-effective,” Kipling said.
The Cult of the Air Fryer: Still Going Strong
Despite these warnings, air fryer enthusiasts are standing their ground. From social media cooking hacks to entire cookbooks dedicated to the appliance, the love affair shows no signs of slowing. Some home cooks use their air fryer for everything—from reheating pizza and roasting vegetables to baking cookies and boiling eggs (yes, really).
One fan humorously wrote, “I’d air fry a cup of tea if I could.” Another added, “I haven’t touched my oven in months.”
So… Should You Rethink Your Air Fryer Habits?
Here’s a balanced take:
Use your air fryer when:
-
You’re cooking for 1–2 people
-
You want crispy results without oil
-
You’re short on time
-
You’re reheating leftovers or small frozen items
Stick to your oven or stovetop when:
-
Cooking large or multiple meals
-
Preparing anything with wet batter
-
You need even heat distribution (e.g., baking cakes or casseroles)
-
You’re batch cooking for the week
Ultimately, the air fryer is a fantastic tool—just not a one-size-fits-all solution. Like any kitchen appliance, it shines when used for the right tasks. So enjoy those crispy fries and golden chicken wings, but don’t ditch your oven just yet.
What about you? Are you team Air Fryer, Oven, or somewhere in between?
