People are only just realising you can pre-heat air fryers before adding food

Everyone knows that preheating an oven is crucial for speeding up the cooking process, but what about an air fryer? The answer is yes - it can be beneficial, but it isn’t always necessary. Air fryers have revolutionised the way we cook: simply add a few ingredients, press a button, and your food is done. Those with a busy schedule might struggle to find the time to cook lunch or dinner, often opting for takeaways. However, ever since air fryers became popular, they have made life much easier. Also, they’re incredibly easy to use. Every minute counts, especially when you're in a rush and need a quick meal. Air fryers are already faster than ovens, but preheating them can reduce cooking time even further. This is because they start cooking food immediately once it's inside the basket.

Air fryers have the ability to crisp up food while using minimal oil. However, preheating for a few minutes ensures an even crispier exterior; perfect for foods like chips or chicken. Some air fryers come with a preheat setting, while others don’t, so it’s best to check the manual. If yours doesn’t have one, you can still preheat it manually by setting it to the required cooking temperature for a few minutes. Experts generally recommend preheating for three minutes for most models, while larger air fryers may require up to five minutes.

Although preheating an air fryer has its benefits, there are a few other factors to consider to ensure the best quality and taste:. One of the biggest challenges when using an air fryer is food sticking to the tray. This can happen if there isn’t enough oil or to the build-up of residue from previous foods. Using non-stick parchment paper, which is heat-resistant and can handle temperatures over 400°F, prevents food from sticking and makes the cleaning process much easier.

Fried foods are undeniably delicious and easy to make. Air fryers reduce the amount of oil needed, avoiding excess grease and fat, as they only require a small amount to create the perfect dish. However, using the right type of oil is important, as some can burn easily or give food a bitter taste. It’s best to use oils with a high smoke point, such as canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil. Important: avoid cooking sprays, as they can damage the air fryer’s non-stick coating.

Trying to cook everything at once might seem like a time-saver, but overloading the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking. To get the best results, it’s essential to add the right amount of food in a single layer. If you have a large portion to make, you'll just have to do it separately. As the name suggests, an air fryer works by circulating hot air around the food. If it's overcrowded with chips and chicken nuggets, the food may end up undercooked. In some cases, overloading the fryer can even cause the machine to break down.