Long story short: It won’t blow up.
But there are some very important rules you should consider.
Air fryers have been game changers in the kitchen.
Credit:Antonis Achilleos; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
The short answer is yes, you’re free to put aluminum foil in the air fryer.
Of course it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your particular air fryer.
Other than safety, why do some manufacturers disapprove?
Because the foil could interrupt the air flow, impacting how your food cooks.
Air fryers work by circulating hot air, which originates at the bottom of the fryer.
Lining it with foil can constrict the air flow and your food won’t cook properly.
These foods and situations are excellent reasons to pull out that foil.
Line that basket when cooking saucy wings and the like.
Lining the basket with foil allows you to lift it right out with no breaking.
Errant crumbs can sift through the basket, resulting in burning and more mess.
What About Parchment Paper?
If you don’t have aluminum foil on hand, you may be tempted to use parchment paper instead.
For more info, you’ll want to check outCan You Use Parchment Paper in the Air Fryer?
An air fryer typically doesn’t need cleaning each time it is used.
Recommendations include cleaning it every other use or putting the basket, tray, and pan in the dishwasher.
Never submerge the main unit in water.
The same rule applies to abrasive sponges or metal scrubbers.
You do not want to apply harsh cleaning items and ruin the coating.
In the same vein, abrasive cleaning materials are also a no-no.
As a matter of fact, many disinfectants are not appropriate for cleaning food-contact surfaces.
Check the label of a disinfectant first to see if it can be applied to a cooking surface.
You want to be gentle with your air fryer to keep it functioning for as long as possible.
Creating a paste with baking soda and water and using a sponge to clean fits the bill.
Try thesemess-free recipesout and get busy with that air fryer.
