Do I Need to Use Parchment Paper When Using My Air Fryer?

When discussing air fryers, a common question is: do you need to use parchment paper when cooking? The answer to this question isn't a simple "yes" or "no," as it depends on several factors, including the type of food being cooked and personal cleaning preferences. This article will delve into the operational principles of air fryers, as well as the advantages and limitations of using parchment paper, providing you with a comprehensive guide.

How Air Fryers Work

Air fryers generate heat through a heating element at the top, and use a fan located above to circulate hot air rapidly within a closed space. This 360-degree hot air circulation system removes moisture and fat from the surface of the food, achieving an effect similar to deep frying. Thus, air fryers can cook food that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside without the need for large amounts of oil.

Advantages of Using Parchment Paper

Using parchment paper in air fryers has certain advantages. First, it can prevent fatty meats from sticking to the fry basket during cooking, reducing the difficulty of cleaning. Second, using parchment paper can avoid the need for harsh cleaning tools (like steel wool) that could scratch the fryer's coating, extending the lifespan of the fryer. Additionally, for small items or crumbs, parchment paper can prevent them from falling through the holes in the basket, keeping the interior of the fryer clean.

Limitations of Using Parchment Paper

Despite its benefits, using parchment paper also has limitations. If parchment paper covers the vent holes at the bottom of the fryer, it may hinder the flow of hot air and affect even heating of the food. This is especially true for food at the bottom of the basket, which may result in reduced baking effectiveness. Moreover, the material of the parchment paper is crucial. Air fryer-specific parchment paper is made of semi-transparent or oil-resistant paper coated with food-grade silicone, which has relatively poor heat conductivity, suitable for preventing sticking rather than direct heating. While aluminum foil has good thermal conductivity, its sealing properties are strong, making it unsuitable for all types of food and potentially affecting cooking results.

Cleaning Tips

For dealing with stubborn grease in air fryers, there's a simple method: place the greasy side down, add an appropriate amount of dish soap and baking soda, then add water to cover the grease. Put it in the air fryer at 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) for 10 minutes. This process can make the dried grease rise, and after rinsing with water and a light wipe, the grease can be easily removed, making the air fryer as good as new.