If you’re new to using an air fryer, you may be wondering if you can use parchment paper in it. The short answer is yes. But, before you go ahead, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here’s a complete guide to help you out.
So, Can You Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer?
Yep, you can. Parchment paper will keep your air fryer from getting too messy, especially if you’re cooking foods that will stick or drip. It’s great for marinated chicken, saucy wings, fish fillets, cheesy snacks, shrimp, sliced veggies, breaded bites, and so much more.
What Do You Need to Keep in Mind?
Make sure you’re using parchment paper specifically made for air fryers or high heat. Regular parchment paper can handle heat up to about 400°F, but if you’re cooking something at a higher temp, double-check that it’s rated for it.
How to Use Parchment Paper Safely in an Air Fryer
Sure, you can use parchment paper in an air fryer but it’s got to be done the right way. Here’s a complete guide to help you out:
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer First
Before you put the parchment paper in, preheat your air fryer as usual. If you add parchment paper during the preheating stage, it could blow around and hit the heating element. So always preheat first, then add the paper and food.
Step 2: Cut the Right Size
Grab your parchment paper and cut it to fit your air fryer basket. You don’t want it to cover the entire basket edge-to-edge. Leave a little gap around the sides so the hot air can flow through. Pro tip: You can buy pre-cut air fryer parchment paper with holes already in it.
Step 3: Punch Some Holes (If Needed)
If your parchment paper doesn’t already have holes all over, punch a few yourself. Use a fork or a hole punch to do this. This keeps that air circulating so your food still gets crispy.
Step 4: Place the Parchment Paper in the Basket
Once the air fryer is preheated, lay the parchment paper flat in the basket. Make sure it fits snugly and doesn’t have any edges sticking up. If the paper is curling up, flatten it out with your hand or a spatula.
Step 5: Add Your Food to Hold it Down
This step is super important. Always put the food on top of the parchment paper right away to weigh it down. Don’t turn on the air fryer without food on the parchment paper. The paper could fly up and hit the heating element which could cause a fire. Try not to overcrowd the food on the parchment paper. You want to give each piece some breathing room so the hot air can do its thing
Step 6: Check on it Midway and Remove
Halfway through cooking, check on your food. Make sure the parchment paper is still where it should be and that nothing’s burning. When your food’s done, carefully lift out the parchment paper with tongs or a spatula. It’s gonna be hot.
Can You Use Wax Paper Instead?
Nope.
Wax paper has a thin layer of wax on it, and that wax can melt or even catch fire when exposed to high heat. It’s really only good for cold or room-temperature items, like wrapping sandwiches or lining baking trays for no-bake recipes. It just can’t handle the heat like parchment paper can.
What Are My Other Options?
If you’re out of parchment paper, you can go without any liner. Air fryers are designed to handle food directly on the basket, and most baskets are non-stick. If you’re keen on using something to make cleanup easier, you can go for silicone liners or aluminum foil. Avoid using foil with acidic foods like tomatoes or lemon juice since it can react and leave a weird metallic taste.
Summary
Yes, you can use parchment paper in an air fryer, but it’s essential to follow safety guidelines. Cut the paper to the right size, weigh it down with food, and do not exceed recommended temperatures.
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