Air Fryer And Cast Iron: A Match Made In Heaven?

Cast iron pans are a popular kitchen staple due to their durability, even heat distribution, and natural non-stick properties. Air fryers have also gained popularity for their ability to cook crispy food with minimal oil. Combining these two cooking methods has sparked interest among those who want to enjoy crispy, delicious, and healthier meals. While it is possible to use cast iron in an air fryer, there are important considerations to ensure safety and optimal cooking results. Firstly, it is crucial to ensure the cast iron pan fits comfortably within the air fryer's basket or tray, allowing proper air circulation. Secondly, one should check the weight limits specified by the air fryer manufacturer to prevent overloading the appliance and causing potential damage. Preheating the cast iron pan before placing it in the air fryer can also help ensure even cooking and prevent temperature shock.

Cast iron pans are safe to use in an air fryer

However, it is important to ensure that your cast iron pan fits comfortably within the basket or tray of your air fryer, as using a pan that is too large may prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking or potential damage to the air fryer. Air fryers typically have weight limits, so it is essential to check that the weight of your cast iron pan, along with the food you are cooking, does not exceed the manufacturer's recommendation. Preheating your cast iron pan before placing it in the air fryer can also help ensure even cooking and prevent temperature shock.

To prevent any potential damage to the non-stick coating or the heating elements of your air fryer, it is advisable to use a trivet or silicone mat underneath the cast iron pan. Additionally, while cast iron pans are oven-safe, they should not be seasoned in an air fryer as this usually takes about an hour in an oven. Seasoning a cast iron pan in an air fryer may block airflow and harm the heating element.

In summary, cast iron pans can be safely used in an air fryer, but it is important to follow certain precautions to ensure the safety of the equipment and the quality of your cooking results.

Precautions to take when using cast iron in an air fryer

While cast iron pans are safe to use in an air fryer, there are some precautions you should take to ensure the safety of your equipment and the quality of your cooking. Here are some key considerations:

Size and Weight

Ensure that your cast iron pan fits comfortably within the basket or tray of your air fryer. Using a pan that is too large may prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking or potential damage to the air fryer's heating elements. Check your air fryer's manual or specifications to ensure that the weight of your cast iron pan, along with the food, does not exceed the recommended limit.

Air Circulation

Cast iron pans can take up a lot of room in an air fryer, which can obstruct airflow and cause uneven heating. It is important to leave enough space for air to circulate around the pan and the food. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you may need to cook smaller portions or use a different cooking method.

Preheating

Preheating your cast iron pan before placing it in the air fryer can help ensure even cooking and prevent temperature shock. This can also help prevent any potential damage to the non-stick coating or heating elements of your air fryer.

Seasoning

Cast iron pans should be seasoned correctly to keep them rust-free and in good condition. However, seasoning a cast iron pan should not be done in an air fryer, as it typically takes an hour in an oven.

Material Considerations

While cast iron is a popular choice for air frying due to its durability and even heating, it is not the only option. Oven-safe stainless steel, aluminum, and glass dishes (such as Pyrex) can also be used in an air fryer. Always check for oven-safe markings on the cookware to ensure it is safe for use in an air fryer.

Benefits of using cast iron in an air fryer

Cast iron is a popular choice for cooking in an air fryer. Here are some benefits of using cast iron in an air fryer:

Durability and Longevity: Cast iron is known for its durability and longevity. It is practically unbreakable and can withstand tremendous heat and vigorous cooking without sustaining damage. This makes it a reliable choice for air frying, where high temperatures and intense air circulation are involved.

Even Heat Distribution: Cast iron has excellent heat retention and distribution properties. It heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring your food cooks uniformly. This even heating also contributes to better cooking results, as the heat is consistent across the entire cooking surface.

Non-Stick Properties: When properly seasoned, cast iron develops non-stick properties, making it easier to cook and clean. A well-seasoned cast iron skillet or pot won't feel sticky to the touch, and you'll be able to achieve that coveted crispy texture on your food without the need for excessive amounts of butter or oil.

Affordability: Cast iron cookware is generally affordable and accessible. It offers excellent value for money due to its durability, making it a cost-effective choice for those looking to invest in long-lasting and effective cookware.

Safety: Air frying with cast iron is safer than traditional stovetop cooking. Air fryers sit on your countertop and produce very little smoke. There's no hot pan or grill to handle, reducing the risk of burns. Additionally, since air fryers use little to no oil, there's less chance of oil-related accidents, such as spattering or grease fires.

It's important to note that while cast iron is safe to use in an air fryer, its size may pose a challenge. Cast iron pans tend to be large and heavy, which can hinder proper air circulation in the air fryer. Therefore, it's crucial to ensure that there is adequate space for air to circulate around the cast iron pan to prevent overheating or damaging the heating element.

How to season a cast iron pan

Cast iron pans are highly reactive, and iron, on its own, can rust within minutes in humid air. Seasoning a cast iron pan is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. Seasoning forms a protective coating that helps prevent your pan from rusting and also gives it non-stick properties.

Firstly, scrub the pan with warm, soapy water. Rinse and hand dry the pan thoroughly. Next, apply a thin, even layer of cooking oil to the pan, inside and out. You can use any cooking oil or fat, but vegetable oil, melted shortening, or canola oil are recommended due to their availability, affordability, and high smoke point. Place the pan upside down in the oven, with a baking sheet or aluminium foil on the bottom rack. Bake at 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour, then allow the pan to cool.

This process should be repeated three to four times to set a good initial layer of seasoning. Once you are done, your pan is ready for cooking. Each time you cook with oil, you will be adding another layer to the seasoning. You can also rub oil into your pan after each use to maintain the seasoning.

Some activities may remove seasoning from your pan, such as cooking acidic foods, using excessive heat, or scrubbing with abrasive utensils. Therefore, it is recommended to season your pan in the oven a few times a year, especially if it becomes rusty.

Foods to cook with cast iron in an air fryer

Air fryers have become increasingly popular due to their ability to crisp up food without the need for excess oil. Cast iron pans, on the other hand, have been a kitchen staple for generations due to their durability, even heat distribution, and natural non-stick properties. While cast iron pans are generally compatible with a wide range of cooking methods, the unique design of air fryers means that using cast iron pans in them is not a straightforward decision.

Firstly, it is crucial to ensure that your cast iron pan fits comfortably within the basket or tray of your air fryer. Using a pan that is too large may disrupt proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking or potential damage to the air fryer. Most air fryers have weight limits specified by the manufacturer, so it is important to check that the weight of your cast iron pan, along with the food, does not exceed this limit.

To prevent any potential damage to the non-stick coating or the heating elements of your air fryer, it is recommended to use a trivet or silicone mat underneath the cast iron pan. Preheating your cast iron pan before placing it in the air fryer can help ensure even cooking and prevent temperature shock.

Now that we have covered the safety considerations, let's discuss some foods that can be cooked with cast iron in an air fryer:

• Steak: Cooking steak in an air fryer helps preserve its natural flavour. It also requires less butter or oil than cooking in a cast iron pan. For best results, use enough oil to coat the steak, season with salt and pepper, and cook at 400°F for 6 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness and desired doneness.
• French fries: Air fryers can give you crispy French fries on the outside and fluffy ones on the inside without the greasiness associated with deep-frying.
• Vegetables: Air fryers are great for roasting vegetables like asparagus and broccoli to a nice crisp. They can also be used to cook Brussels sprouts, which can be topped off with Parmesan cheese.
• Shrimp: Shrimp is a quick and easy dish to make in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy and juicy protein-packed snack.
• Pork chops: Air fryers can help you cook juicy and well-seasoned pork chops in a short amount of time.

Frequently asked questions