This stylish kitchen trend has become a staple in many households. People love air fryers for their speed, lightness of meals, and the way they help keep dishes healthier. Social media feeds on Instagram and TikTok are full of creative ideas and easy recipes that show what this compact gadget can do. The device is popular across Canada and the United States, and it continues to attract new fans who want quick, tasty results without deep frying.
How Can You Prevent Your Air Fryer From Breaking While Cleaning?
Beyond sharing recipes, many users wonder about the best way to clean an air fryer and which accessories are safe to use. The question about parchment paper often comes up, and the answer is yes you can place parchment paper inside the air fryer. This paper is designed for use in air fryers and can significantly reduce cleanup time. Regular baking paper works as well, helping food stay in place and preventing stains. In short, parchment paper serves a dual purpose: it protects the basket and keeps things hygienic.
Air fryer. Romix Image/Sutterstock
Where Do You Put the Paper in the Fryer?
The best spot for parchment paper is the basket with the perforated bottom that allows air to circulate. Placing it in a lower basket can cause oil from the food to accumulate and disrupt the airflow, leading to uneven heating. Using parchment paper in the correct position helps maintain optimal air flow and ensures crisp, even results.
Air fryer. PRAC DESIGN/Shutterstock
And Aluminum Foil?
Many air fryer users ask if aluminum foil is permissible. It is, but it should be used with caution and only when other options are not available. If foil is used, avoid covering the entire surface of the basket so that air can still circulate. Always place food on the foil to prevent the paper from lifting during cooking, which could cause it to touch the heating element.
Is there aluminum foil in the air fryer?
What Containers Can Be Used in the Fryer?
Another way to keep the air fryer clean without relying on parchment paper is to cook foods in containers that are safe for this appliance. Glass, silicone, and ceramic containers can be placed inside the air fryer, expanding the range of dishes that can be prepared while maintaining neatness and ease of cleaning.
Air fryer. Romix Image/Sutterstock