Air fryers have quickly become essential kitchen appliances across the world, helping to prepare almost anything from chips to fish quickly and easily. Many people have noted the ability to add paper towel to an air fryer for certain preparations, with some claiming it helps achieve better results. But is this the case? Read on to discover the full story.
The Benefits of Using Paper Towel in an Air Fryer
Paper towel is often used in air fryer recipes because it helps absorb excess oils. This allows the dish to cook more evenly and also prevents dangerous splatter and flare-ups while cooking. The material also helps insulate and keep plates warm while they rest before serving.
In addition, paper towel can also add a pleasant texture to dishes, depending on the type and thickness of the paper towel you are using. This can help separate food that has been piled up during the cooking process, giving your plate a more professional look.
Paper towel can also be used to line the air fryer basket before adding food. This helps to prevent sticking and makes it easier to clean up after cooking. Additionally, it can be used to line the air fryer tray to catch any crumbs or debris that may fall during the cooking process.
What Types of Paper Towel are Suitable?
As paper towel is intended for absorbing liquids and oils, it is important to use a paper towel that is strong enough to handle these intense conditions. Thicker paper towels with a stronger texture, such as Bounty or Viva brands, are best suited for use in an air fryer. Using thin, lightweight papers towels can result in food burn when placed in an air fryer.
It is also important to consider the size of the paper towel when using an air fryer. If the paper towel is too large, it can block the air flow and prevent the food from cooking properly. It is best to use a paper towel that is slightly smaller than the air fryer basket, so that it does not interfere with the air flow.
How to Use Paper Towel in an Air Fryer
It is important to note that not all food dishes require the use of paper towel. When preparing a meal, it is best to first assess if the dish needs paper towel before adding it. If necessary, make sure that you line the air fryer’s basket with an appropriate size and type of paper towel.
When adding food, ensure that it is near the center of the paper towel to provide even heating and avoid blocking air flow over the edges of the paper towel. Be sure to leave enough room in between food items to ensure proper circulation while they are cooking.
It is also important to check the paper towel regularly during the cooking process to ensure that it is not becoming too saturated with oil or grease. If it is, replace it with a fresh sheet of paper towel to ensure that the food is cooked properly.
Potential Safety Concerns When Using Paper Towels in an Air Fryer
Always remember that safety comes first when using any kitchen appliance. As paper towels can be flammable due to their oil absorbing nature, it is important not to overload your air fryer and maintain a safe temperature when cooking. Make sure that you also use a paper towel that is fit for purpose and replace used paper towels regularly.
It is also important to ensure that the paper towel is not placed too close to the heating element of the air fryer. This could cause the paper towel to catch fire, so it is important to keep it away from the heat source. Additionally, it is important to keep an eye on the paper towel while the air fryer is in use, as it may need to be replaced if it becomes too saturated with oil.
Tips and Tricks for Using Paper Towel in an Air Fryer
Using the correct paper towel can make all the difference. For meals requiring oil, using a thicker paper towel like the previously mentioned brands can help absorb the oil better and prevent flare-ups. Using thinner paper towels with lightweight textures can also work for dishes needing just a light coating with oil.
As both ingredients and cooking times vary by dish, it is important to adjust your cook time correspondingly. For example, if adding oil with a thick paper towel, food may cook faster due to more heat retentions from the material.
Alternatives to Using Paper Towel in an Air Fryer
In place of paper towels, metal racks or metal tin foil can be used while cooking in an air fryer. These work best for roasting vegetables that do not require any oil or done need just a light coating. However, these materials cannot replace paper towels when preparing dishes that require frequent oil changes.
Conclusion
Paper towels are often overlooked as an effective kitchen appliance helper, but they can be helpful when cooking with an air fryer. Whether you need to absorb oils or keep your plates warmer, using the right kind of paper towel for your dish can help make mealtime easier and more enjoyable.
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