Air fryers are trending in kitchens across Canada and the United States for making healthier, lighter fried foods without relying on oil. These compact ovens fry and crisp with little fat, turning favorites like croquettes, chips, and meatballs into lighter, calorie-conscious options.
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Yet many cooks overlook the fact that this device can handle more than just traditional frying. Today three surprising uses for your air fryer are explored, revealing how versatile this appliance can be in everyday meal prep.
Three non-deep-fried uses you can explore with your air fryer
The primary draw of air fryers is obvious: lighter and healthier fried texture without excess oil. But these machines also open doors to cooking methods that can reinvent weeknight meals. Here are three unexpected possibilities that often surprise users.
Roasting chestnuts in the air fryer: a smart seasonal trick
Autumn brings chestnuts into season, and roasting them is a simple pleasure worth pursuing with an air fryer. The method delivers a delightful, evenly crisp shell and tender interior. Start by washing and drying the chestnuts well, then score the shells with a shallow cut so they don’t burst during heating. Place the chestnuts in the fryer basket without crowding, and bake at 200 degrees for about 10 minutes. If they look extra oily, a couple more minutes can seal the deal. The result is pleasantly warm and fragrant chestnuts that are easy to peel and enjoy.
To discover how to fry chestnuts in an air fryer, follow this guide and experiment with light seasonings for a cozy autumn treat.
Next, consider boiled eggs. The traditional stovetop approach requires water and a pot, but an air fryer offers a waterless alternative. Place the egg in the fryer and cook at 170 degrees for about 7 minutes. The outcome is a well-cooked center with a smooth texture, and the shell peels away with less effort than boiling. If you prefer a firmer yolk, add a minute or two. For a softer center, cut back a minute or two.
You can also hard-boil eggs in the air fryer with a similar approach. If you want to roughly soft-cook instead, reduce the time accordingly and check for your preferred consistency.
Popcorn makes another delightful low-oil option. A small teaspoon of oil with a quarter cup of corn kernels placed in the basket and heated at 200 degrees for about 5 minutes will produce popcorn that is light and airy. Keep an eye on the popping to prevent kernels from popping out. If any kernels stay unpopped after the first round, a brief return to the fryer can finish the job. The end result is snack-sized popcorn that feels lighter than the traditional version.
As with all air fryers, care matters. Open the appliance slowly and keep a watchful eye on the first batches to prevent kernels or pieces from escaping. If some kernels remain, a short additional phase usually resolves the issue.