Stir Fry In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a convenient alternative to the traditional stir-fry, offering a quicker, lower-maintenance option without compromising on taste. You can cook a variety of stir-fry dishes in an air fryer, including chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, or vegetable stir-fries. The process is simple: toss your chosen ingredients in a bowl with oil and seasoning, before transferring them to the air fryer basket and cooking for around 10 minutes. You can also add sauce to your stir-fry, either during or after cooking.

Can you do a stir fry in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make a stir fry in an air fryer! It's a simple method for cooking your favourite stir-fry and a great way to build up your confidence with the appliance. You can cook a beef stir fry, chicken stir fry, shrimp stir fry, tofu stir fry, or just a medley of vegetables.

To make a stir fry in an air fryer, you can follow these general steps:

• Combine your choice of protein (such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu) with vegetables (like broccoli, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or carrots) in a bowl.
• Add your preferred stir fry seasoning and extra virgin olive oil. Toss everything together to coat evenly.
• Place the mixture in the air fryer basket and cook at a temperature between 360°F and 400°F for 7-15 minutes, depending on the ingredients used.
• Toss or shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even cooking and redistribute the food.
• If desired, add a sauce of your choice towards the end of cooking or after the stir fry is done.

• Cut your protein and vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed to allow proper air circulation.
• If using frozen vegetables, add a small amount of oil to help achieve a nice char and prevent sticking.
• If using fresh vegetables, pat them dry before adding to the air fryer.
• Experiment with different sauces and seasonings to find your favourite combinations.

What are the best oils for stir-frying in an air fryer?

Yes, you can make a stir fry in an air fryer! It's a quick and easy way to cook a healthy dinner.

Now, when it comes to the best oils for stir-frying in an air fryer, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you need an oil with a high smoke point, as this will prevent the oil from burning and smoking at high temperatures. Secondly, you'll want an oil that complements the flavours of your stir fry. With that in mind, here are some of the best oils for stir-frying in an air fryer:

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil has a remarkably high smoke point of around 570°F, making it a great choice for stir-frying. It has a neutral flavour, so it won't overpower the other ingredients in your stir fry.

Peanut Oil

With a nutty flavour and a high smoke point of around 450°F, peanut oil is a popular choice for stir-frying. It's commonly used in stir-frying and deep-frying, so it's definitely a good option for your air fryer.

Sunflower Oil

Sunflower oil is another excellent option, with a smoke point of 450°F. It has a light flavour and is rich in vitamin E and unsaturated fats, making it a healthy choice for your stir fry.

Light Olive Oil

If you're looking for a heart-healthy option, light olive oil is a good choice. It has a smoke point of around 465-470°F, and its neutral flavour won't interfere with the taste of your stir fry.

Ghee (Clarified Butter)

Ghee, or clarified butter, has a smoke point of around 485°F. It's commonly used in French and Indian cuisine and has a rich, buttery flavour that can enhance your stir fry.

Other Options

Other oils with high smoke points that you can use for stir-frying in an air fryer include grapeseed oil, soybean oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil. Just keep in mind the flavours of these oils and how they might complement your stir fry.

What ingredients are needed for a stir fry in an air fryer?

The great thing about a stir fry is that you can use whatever ingredients you like best or have available. You can also adapt your favourite stir-fry recipes for the air fryer. Here are some ideas for ingredients:

Meat

• Chicken (breast, thighs, or turkey)
• Beef sirloin, flank steak, ribeye, or skirt steak
• Shrimp
• Pork tenderloin
• Tofu

Vegetables

• Broccoli florets
• Bell peppers (red, orange, or yellow)
• Onions (red or white)
• Mushrooms (portabella or regular button mushrooms)
• Snow peas
• Carrots
• Zucchini
• Eggplant
• Asparagus
• Green beans
• Bok choy
• Brussels sprouts
• Cauliflower rice
• Cabbage

Seasoning

• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Ground ginger
• Chilli flakes
• Chilli powder
• Chinese five spice

Sauce

• Soy sauce
• Coconut aminos
• Honey
• Rice vinegar
• Hoisin sauce
• Teriyaki sauce
• Sweet and sour sauce
• Honey garlic sauce
• Garlic-soy sauce

How long does it take to cook a stir fry in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook a stir fry in an air fryer! The cooking time will depend on the ingredients used, but it typically takes around 10 minutes from start to finish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how long to cook a stir fry in an air fryer:

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it's important to prepare your ingredients. Cut your chosen protein, such as chicken or beef, into bite-sized pieces or thin strips. You can also prepare your vegetables by slicing or chopping them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Marinating

To enhance the flavour of your stir fry, you can marinate your protein. Simply whisk together your chosen marinade ingredients, such as soy sauce, garlic, honey, and oil. Add your protein to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, but preferably 30 minutes to an hour, or even overnight if you have the time.

Cooking the Vegetables

Once your protein is marinated, you can start cooking your vegetables. Place your vegetables in the air fryer basket and cook them for about 5 minutes at around 200°F (93°C). Open the air fryer and give the vegetables a stir to ensure even cooking. If they're not yet tender, add another 2-4 minutes of cooking time.

Cooking the Protein

After your vegetables are cooked, remove them from the air fryer basket and set them aside. Now, place your marinated protein in the basket and cook for 4-6 minutes at a higher temperature of around 360°F (182°C). Check and flip your protein halfway through the cooking process, and add another 2 minutes if needed.

Combining and Serving

Once your protein is cooked, combine it with the cooked vegetables in the air fryer basket. Toss everything together and cook for an additional 7-8 minutes at 380°F (193°C) until your protein is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Serve your stir fry immediately with your choice of sides, such as rice, noodles, or quinoa.

Tips for Success

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook your protein and vegetables in batches if needed to allow proper air circulation.
• Shake or stir the contents of the basket halfway through the cooking time to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Let your cooked protein rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavourful meat.
• Experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to find your perfect stir fry combination.

With these steps and tips, you'll be able to create a delicious and quick stir fry in your air fryer!

What are some serving suggestions for an air fryer stir fry?

There are many ways to serve an air fryer stir fry. Here are some suggestions:

Rice

You can serve your stir fry with a side of cauliflower rice, steamed rice, white rice, brown rice, basmati rice, or wild rice.

Noodles

Alternatively, you could serve your stir fry with noodles.

Potatoes

Some sources suggest serving your stir fry with mashed, baked, or fried potatoes.

Salad

For a healthier option, you could serve your stir fry with a fresh salad.

Bread

You could also serve your stir fry with flatbread.

Spring Rolls and Egg Rolls

If you want to bulk out your stir fry, you could serve it with spring rolls or egg rolls.

Other Sides

For more Chinese-inspired sides, you could try Chinese chicken wings or Chinese spare ribs.

Toppings and Sides

Some toppings and sides you could add to your stir fry include:

• Sesame seeds
• Green onions
• Chopped peanuts
• Bacon bits
• Breadcrumbs
• Marinades or sauces (e.g. teriyaki, sweet and sour, or honey garlic)
• Pineapple chunks
• Bell peppers
• Carrots
• Broccoli
• Cashews
• Cilantro

Frequently asked questions