Air Fryer Guide for Foodies, by Foodies
Guide

Revolutionize Your Cooking: How To Unlock The Power Of Air Frying With Your Convection Oven

Emily Graham is the editor in chief and head chef of Cookmag Online. With over 15 years of experience in the culinary industry, she's tested hundreds of kitchen appliances both professionally in restaurant kitchens and at home cooking for her family. Emily loves sharing her knowledge and reviews of the...

What To Know

  • Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to air fry in a convection oven.
  • To air fry in a convection oven, you’ll need a baking sheet with a wire rack or a dedicated air fryer basket that fits inside your oven.
  • Place the baking sheet or air fryer basket with the food on the middle rack of the convection oven.

Air frying has become a popular cooking method for its convenience and ability to create crispy, flavorful dishes with less oil. While traditional air fryers are widely available, you can also achieve similar results using a convection oven. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to air fry in a convection oven:

1. Understand the Basics

Convection ovens circulate hot air around food, resulting in even cooking and a crispy exterior. To air fry in a convection oven, you’ll need a baking sheet with a wire rack or a dedicated air fryer basket that fits inside your oven.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your convection oven to the desired air frying temperature, typically between 350°F and 400°F. Preheat time may vary depending on your oven, so consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Prepare the Food

Cut your food into uniform pieces for even cooking. Lightly coat the food with oil to enhance crispiness. You can use cooking spray, olive oil, or any other high smoke point oil.

4. Place the Food in the Oven

Place the baking sheet or air fryer basket with the food on the middle rack of the convection oven. Ensure there is ample space around the food for proper air circulation.

5. Air Fry

Set the oven to the air fry setting or use the convection bake function. Adjust the cooking time based on the type and amount of food you’re cooking. Refer to the chart below for approximate cooking times:

Food Cooking Time
— —
French fries 15-20 minutes
Chicken wings 20-25 minutes
Fish sticks 10-15 minutes
Vegetables 10-15 minutes
Pizza rolls 10-12 minutes

6. Shake or Flip the Food

For optimal crispiness, shake or flip the food halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even browning and prevents burning.

7. Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer or fork to check if the food is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove from the oven once fully cooked and crispy.

Benefits of Air Frying in a Convection Oven

  • Crispy results: Convection ovens circulate hot air, creating a crispy exterior similar to a traditional air fryer.
  • Less oil: Air frying requires minimal oil compared to deep frying, making it a healthier cooking option.
  • Versatility: You can air fry a wide variety of foods, from vegetables to meats and even desserts.
  • Convenience: Convection ovens are typically larger than air fryers, allowing you to cook larger batches of food at once.

Safety Tips

  • Never overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket.
  • Use oven mitts when handling hot cookware.
  • Clean the oven regularly to prevent grease buildup.
  • Do not leave the oven unattended while air frying.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Cooking with Air Frying

Air frying in a convection oven is an effective way to enjoy crispy, flavorful dishes with reduced fat content. By following these steps and tips, you can master this cooking technique and create delicious meals with ease.

What People Want to Know

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Q: Can I use any baking sheet for air frying?
A: Yes, but it’s recommended to use a baking sheet with a wire rack to allow for better air circulation.

Q: What oil should I use for air frying?
A: Use high smoke point oils such as olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil.

Q: Can I air fry frozen foods?
A: Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly as frozen foods may require longer to cook.

Q: How do I clean the air fryer basket?
A: Most air fryer baskets are dishwasher-safe. Alternatively, soak the basket in hot soapy water and scrub with a sponge or brush.

Q: Can I use parchment paper in a convection oven?
A: Yes, you can use parchment paper to line the baking sheet for easier cleanup. However, do not place parchment paper directly on the oven rack.

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Emily Graham

Emily Graham is the editor in chief and head chef of Cookmag Online. With over 15 years of experience in the culinary industry, she's tested hundreds of kitchen appliances both professionally in restaurant kitchens and at home cooking for her family. Emily loves sharing her knowledge and reviews of the latest and greatest cooking gadgets and small appliances hitting the market. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking up new recipe creations in her fully equipped dream kitchen. Emily holds a degree from The Culinary Institute of America and writes with the goal of helping home cooks at all levels find the right tools to improve their cooking. Follow along on Instagram @chefemilygraham for more of her kitchen adventures and product recommendations.
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