Air Fryer Sauce: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, including making sauces. While it may not be the first appliance you think of for sauce-making, it is possible to create delicious sauces in an air fryer, such as roasted tomato spaghetti sauce or even a basic tomato sauce with a roasted garlic flavor.

One of the benefits of using an air fryer for sauce-making is its convenience and speed. It is also more energy-efficient than using a traditional oven, which is a significant advantage when energy prices are high. Additionally, air fryers can produce caramelization, which enhances the flavor of roasted garlic.

However, there are some considerations when using an air fryer for sauce-making. The sauce may thicken due to liquid evaporation, and the cleanup process can be messier than with other methods. Nevertheless, with some adjustments to the technique, it is possible to create tasty sauces in an air fryer.

Air-frying vs other cooking methods

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance due to their convenience, speed, and versatility. They can be used to cook a variety of dishes, including meats, vegetables, and even desserts. But how does air frying compare to other traditional cooking methods?

One of the biggest advantages of air frying is its convenience. Air fryers are compact, easy to use, and require little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep frying. They are also faster than traditional ovens, as they use a concentrated stream of hot air to cook food, resulting in reduced cooking times. This makes air fryers ideal for quick weeknight meals or when you're short on time.

When compared to stovetop cooking, air frying offers a more hands-off approach. There is no need to constantly stir or monitor the food, reducing the risk of burning or overcooking. Additionally, air fryers are generally easier to clean than stovetops, as there are fewer pots and pans involved.

However, one area where air frying may fall short is in the development of flavour. While air fryers can produce tasty dishes, the intense heat and short cooking times may not allow for the same depth of flavour that can be achieved through slow cooking or braising. For example, when making tomato sauce, the stovetop method allows for better flavour development and a smoother consistency compared to the air fryer, which may result in a thicker sauce.

Air fryers also have limitations in terms of capacity. They are typically designed for smaller portions, making them less suitable for cooking large meals for a big family or group. In such cases, a stovetop or oven may be more practical.

In conclusion, air frying offers several benefits, including convenience, speed, and healthier cooking. However, it may not always deliver the same depth of flavour as traditional cooking methods, and it may not be ideal for large-volume cooking. Ultimately, the best cooking method depends on the specific dish, the desired outcome, and personal preferences.

Air fryer sauce recipes

Air Fryer Soy Sauce Chicken

This recipe is inspired by Taiwanese Chicken Bento boxes and is super easy to make. The chicken is marinated in classic Taiwanese ingredients: soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, five-spice powder, white pepper, and garlic. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes or overnight. Then, place the chicken in the air fryer, skin side up, and set the air fryer to 380F for 15 minutes.

Air Fryer Cherry Tomato Pasta Sauce

This is a quick and easy vegetarian pasta dish that can be prepared in the time it takes to boil the pasta. Simply mix halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, herbs, and garlic, then air fry for 10 minutes. Next, add cream and cheese to the pan and mix through. Serve with your favourite type of pasta.

Air Fryer Chicken with Store-Bought Sauces

This recipe uses store-bought sauces such as Panda Express Kung Pao Sauce or Orange Sauce. Cut boneless, skinless chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks and coat them with cornstarch. Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, coat with grapeseed oil spray, and cook at 390 degrees F for 12-15 minutes. Once cooked, pour the chicken into a bowl and mix with your chosen sauce. Serve over rice with broccoli and garnish with green onions or sesame seeds.

Air Fryer Roasted Tomato Spaghetti Sauce

This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with all the flavours of Italy. Simply halve some ripe tomatoes, sprinkle with herbs, flavourings, and seasoning, then drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze. Roast in the air fryer for 12 minutes at 200C/400F. Finally, blend the roasted tomatoes with some fresh basil and pasta water until you have a smooth, silky sauce. Toss with freshly cooked spaghetti and serve.

Tips for Using an Air Fryer to Make Sauce

• If you are cooking something in sauce, use a small bake-safe container that fits inside your air fryer.
• BBQ sauce is a good option as it is thicker than water and will not make as much mess.
• You can also "paint" the sauce onto your food towards the end of the cooking process and air fry for a few more minutes.
• Be prepared for some extra cleaning, as using sauce in an air fryer can be messier.
• If you are making a tomato-based sauce, you can improve the flavour and consistency by roasting whole tomatoes and pureeing them.

Store-bought sauces

Choosing the Right Sauce

The first step to success is selecting the perfect store-bought sauce. The options are endless, from classic tomato-based sauces to exotic flavours like Kung Pao and Orange Sauce. Choose a sauce that aligns with your taste preferences and the specific dish you want to prepare.

Preparing the Chicken

Before adding any sauce, it's essential to prepare your chicken properly. Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks, and if you want to ensure it's gluten-free, coat the pieces with cornstarch or potato starch. Next, place the chicken in the air fryer basket coated with grapeseed cooking spray or oil. Cook the chicken at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Adding the Sauce

Once your chicken is cooked, it's time to add the store-bought sauce. Pour about a quarter of a cup of your chosen sauce over the chicken and gently mix to coat the pieces evenly. You can always add more sauce to taste, but starting with a smaller amount prevents the sauce from overpowering the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer chicken with store-bought sauce is incredibly versatile. You can serve it over rice with broccoli and a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds. This dish is best served hot and fresh, but you can also store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Customisation

Customise your dish by choosing different types of store-bought sauces, such as those offered by Panda Express or P.F. Chang's. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of chicken, such as boneless, skinless chicken thighs, to find your preferred texture and flavour.

Preparing chicken for air frying

Choosing the Right Chicken

Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts that weigh around 7 ounces (200 grams). If you prefer dark meat, opt for chicken thighs. You can also use chicken strips, which cook faster than bone-in pieces.

Marination

For juicy and tender chicken, consider marinating it in buttermilk or brine (wet or dry). If using buttermilk, season the chicken with salt and pepper, then soak it in buttermilk for at least an hour or overnight. For brining, sprinkle salt over the chicken and let it rest for at least 30 minutes or up to a day in the refrigerator. Brining enhances the flavour and texture of the meat.

Breading

If you wish to bread the chicken, prepare a mixture of flour, seasoned salt, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. After marinating, remove the chicken from the buttermilk or brine, shake off the excess liquid, and dip it into the flour mixture. Ensure the chicken is well coated.

Cooking

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, ensuring the pieces don't touch to allow air circulation. Lightly spray the chicken with oil. Cook for about 14 minutes, then flip the chicken, spray with oil again, and cook for an additional 10 to 12 minutes. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for white meat and 175°F (79°C) for dark meat.

Reheating and Storage

To reheat, avoid using the air fryer as it may burn the exterior. Instead, use a conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for later use.

Reheating sauce

Preparation

Before placing your sauce in the air fryer, it is important to ensure that it is properly prepared. If your sauce contains meat, it is recommended to let the meat sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before reheating. This will help the meat cook more evenly and prevent it from drying out. Additionally, if your sauce contains cheese, it is best to add it during the last minute of cooking.

Temperature and Timing

The ideal temperature and timing for reheating sauce in an air fryer may vary depending on the specific model and the amount of sauce you are reheating. However, a good starting point is to preheat the air fryer to 360°F (180°C) and cook the sauce until it is heated through. For thicker sauces, you may need to add a few tablespoons of water to help rehydrate and thin out the sauce. It is also important to ensure that your sauce reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent any food poisoning risks.

Container and Placement

When reheating sauce in an air fryer, it is recommended to use a basket-style air fryer rather than an oven tray. This is because the basket ensures that hot air reaches all surfaces of the sauce, including the bottom. Place the sauce in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation and even heating. If you have a large batch of sauce, you may need to reheat it in multiple batches.

Oil and Crispness

While not mandatory, adding a spritz of olive oil or avocado oil to your sauce before reheating can help refresh and enhance the flavour. Additionally, if you are looking to add a crispy texture to your dish, the air fryer is a great option. By circulating hot air around the sauce, the air fryer can help refresh the crisp, especially for fried foods like French fries or chicken nuggets.

Frequently asked questions