Can parchment paper go in the air fryer? What is the best type of parchment paper for an air fryer? And how to use parchment paper in an air fryer properly? Let’s focus on the article below, KimEcopak will help answer your questions.
Can Parchment Paper Be Used In An Air Fryer?
Parchment paper, also known as baking paper, is a type of paper coated with a non-stick silicone layer. This silicone layer not only provides a non-stick surface but also withstands high temperatures (up to 250°C), making it commonly used for lining baking trays, air fryers, and more. It helps prevent food from sticking to the bottom of the fryer or baking tray, reducing the risk of burning.
Thanks to its high heat resistance and stability without altering the taste or quality of the food during cooking, you can safely use it in ovens and air fryers without worrying about compromising food quality.
What Kind of Parchment Paper is Suitable for Air Fryers?
Parchment paper comes in various types, including perforated parchment paper, non-perforated parchment paper, and pre-cut parchment paper.
- Pre-cut Parchment Paper: Often cut into round shapes similar to cupcake liners, suitable for various dishes or baking.
- Non-perforated Parchment Paper: Suitable for baking or grilling dry foods.
- Perforated Parchment Paper: Best used for foods with skins like fish or chicken, or for frying spring rolls, as these foods tend to release more oil during cooking.
All these types can be used in an air fryer, but perforated parchment paper is the most recommended because it improves airflow, ensuring the food is evenly cooked.
How to Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer
Step 1: Choose the Right Size of Parchment Paper
Ensure the parchment paper fits the size of your air fryer. The parchment paper should be the same size or slightly smaller than the bottom of the basket, with a diameter smaller by 1-2 cm.
Recommended sizes:
- For a 3-liter air fryer: 16-18 cm.
- For a 4.5-liter air fryer: 18-20 cm.
- For a 6-liter air fryer: 20-23 cm.
- For a 9-liter air fryer: 23-25 cm.
- For a 15-liter air fryer: 25-30 cm.
Step 2: Preheat and Place the Parchment Paper
- Preheat the air fryer before placing the parchment paper inside. Avoid placing parchment paper alone in the air fryer as it is light and can fly up to the heating element, causing a fire hazard.
- After preheating, place the parchment paper in the basket. Modern parchment paper typically has two glossy sides, so place either side facing up.
Step 3: Place Food on the Parchment Paper
- Avoid overcrowding the food or stacking it on top of each other.
- Do not set the temperature above 250°C, as parchment paper cannot withstand higher temperatures.
- Close the air fryer and continue cooking as usual.
Step 4: Remove the Parchment Paper
Once the food is cooked, take it out and use chopsticks or tongs to remove the parchment paper. Avoid using your hands, as the paper may be hot and cause burns.
Should You Use Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer?
To determine whether you should use parchment paper in an air fryer, consider the following advantages:
- Safety: Parchment paper is safer than aluminum foil, reduces reactions with food, and is more environmentally friendly. Perforated parchment paper allows excess oil and water to drain, maintaining food quality.
- Protects the Air Fryer: It protects the fryer basket and tray from salt and other seasonings, extending the life of the non-stick coating.
- Ease of Cleaning: Lining with parchment paper makes cleaning the fryer quick and easy, saving time and effort.
Tips for Using Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer
- Always choose high-quality parchment paper with clear origins. Test the paper by dipping it in water; good quality paper will not absorb water quickly.
- Parchment paper can withstand lower temperatures than aluminum foil, up to 220-250°C. Keep it away from the heating element to avoid burning.
- Handle foods with bones carefully to avoid tearing the parchment paper.
- For foods that release a lot of water, use non-perforated parchment paper larger than the basket to prevent soaking and tearing.
- Do not use parchment paper if it becomes wet or torn.
By following these guidelines, you can safely and effectively use parchment paper in your air fryer, ensuring delicious and well-cooked meals.
Parchment Paper in Air Fryer Frequently Asked Question
How To Identify Poor-Quality Parchment Paper?
One way to identify low-quality parchment paper for an air fryer is to dip it in water. High-quality parchment paper will absorb little to no water, while low-quality parchment paper will quickly become soggy when dipped in water.
What You Shouldn't Use in an Air Fryer?
While air fryers are versatile and convenient, there are certain foods you should avoid using in them to ensure the best cooking results and to prevent potential damage to the appliance. Here are some foods that you shouldn’t use in an air fryer:
- Cheese: Melting cheese can create a mess and may cause smoking.
- Whole Chicken: Large, whole chickens may not cook evenly and can result in undercooked parts.
- Wet Batter or Liquid Sauces: These can drip through the basket and create a mess or cause smoking.
- Popcorn: Most air fryers cannot reach the high temperature required for popping popcorn efficiently.
By avoiding these foods, you can keep your air fryer in good condition and enjoy perfectly cooked meals.
Conclusion
Parchment paper is an essential tool when making fried or baked dishes in an air fryer, enhancing the non-stick effectiveness of the fryer and making it easier to clean after use. We hope this article provides you with the necessary and useful information!
Related Articles:
