Air Fryer Grease: What You Need To Know

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance that uses hot air to cook food, resulting in a crispy texture without the need for deep frying in oil. While air fryers can reduce the amount of oil used in cooking, some people wonder if grease can be used in an air fryer. The answer is yes, but with some important considerations. Firstly, it is recommended to use grease sparingly to avoid splattering, as it can hit the heating element and smoke. Additionally, non-stick cooking sprays should be avoided as they can damage the coating of the air fryer, making it difficult to reduce oil usage in the future. Instead, users can add a small amount of oil directly to the food before placing it in the air fryer or use a brush to coat the food with melted butter or oil. Proper cleaning techniques are also crucial to maintaining an air fryer, as grease build-up can lead to fires.

Grease disposal methods

Grease disposal is a critical yet often overlooked household task. Improper disposal can lead to clogged pipes and severe plumbing issues in homes and municipal sewage systems. Here are some safe and proper methods for disposing of grease:

Throw it in the Trash

The general rule of thumb is to avoid pouring grease down any drain, including sinks, toilets, and floor drains. Instead, wait for the grease to cool and solidify, then scrape it into a sealed container that can be thrown away. You can use glass jars, waxy containers, or styrofoam boxes to prevent leaks. Alternatively, line a bowl with parchment paper, pour in the grease, and once it cools, seal it in a bag and throw it away.

Reuse and Recycle

Cooking oils and fats can be reused for cooking if stored properly. Cool and store the grease in an airtight container, ensuring it passes the sniff test before each use. Alternatively, waste disposal companies and restaurants often have recycling programs where they collect used cooking oil to create biofuels. Before dropping off your oil, be sure to strain out food bits.

Absorbent Waste

Mixing grease with absorbent waste is another safe disposal option. This can include paper towels, cat litter, or bread. This method turns the grease into solid waste that can be thrown away with other household trash.

Composting (Small Amounts)

While grease should not be composted in large quantities due to its clogging effect, small amounts of vegetable oil can be sprinkled into a compost bin. Avoid using animal fats, as the rancid smell may attract animals.

Professional Removal

For commercial and industrial facilities that produce large volumes of grease, professional grease removal services are available. These companies have the expertise and equipment to handle grease disposal or recycling safely and in accordance with regulations.

Cleaning greasy air fryers

Air fryers are fantastic kitchen appliances that can cook fried food in a much healthier way than traditional frying methods. However, they can get very greasy, and it's important to keep them clean to prevent fires and malfunctions. Here are some tips and methods for cleaning greasy air fryers:

General Cleaning Advice:

• Always consult your air fryer's owner's manual for specific cleaning instructions.
• Allow your air fryer to cool down and unplug it before cleaning.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners and scrubbers, as these can scratch the non-stick coating and exterior.
• Clean your air fryer regularly, especially after cooking messy foods like sauces or marinades.
• Use disposable air fryer aluminium foil or parchment paper liners for easier cleaning.
• Soak removable parts in hot, soapy water and scrub gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush if necessary.

Methods for Removing Grease:

• Dawn Powerwash + Baking Soda + Hydrogen Peroxide: Create a paste with two tablespoons of baking soda, two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide, and two sprays of Dawn Powerwash. Apply the paste to the basket and gently clean with a soft toothbrush. Rinse with water using the non-abrasive side of a sponge.
• Vinegar + Lemon Juice Steam: Combine 1/4 cup of white vinegar with the juice of half a lemon in an oven-safe ceramic ramekin. Place the ramekin in the air fryer, set it to 400 degrees for five minutes, then let it sit for half an hour. This method helps to loosen grease and neutralise odours.
• Baking Soda + Lemon Paste: Mix two tablespoons of baking soda with the juice of half a lemon and a teaspoon of hot water. Apply the paste to the basket and scrub gently with a soft toothbrush or sponge. This method helps remove stuck-on food and neutralises odours.
• Dawn Steam: Fill the basket with water and add a few drops of Dawn dish soap. Turn on the air fryer for two minutes, then rinse.
• Dawn + Baking Soda + Vinegar: Squirt dish soap around the basket, add two tablespoons of baking soda, and pour in hot water until it's almost full. Add two tablespoons of white vinegar and let it sit for ten minutes. This method effectively breaks down grease and stuck-on food.
• Baking Soda + Water: Make a thick paste with baking soda and water. Cover greasy areas with the paste, let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub off with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Alcohol + Dawn Platinum: Heat a mixture of alcohol and Dawn Platinum liquid dish soap, then use a tough-bristled brush, scrubbing pad, or razor blade to remove grease.

Using oil in an air fryer

Air fryers are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering a healthier alternative to frying foods with minimal oil. However, the question of whether or not you can use oil in an air fryer remains a source of confusion for many. Here's a comprehensive guide to using oil in your air fryer:

Yes, you can use oil in an air fryer, but it's important to use it sparingly. A light coating of oil on your food can help keep it moist and give it a golden brown colour. There are a few ways to add oil to your food when using an air fryer:

Adding Oil to Your Food:

Before placing your food in the air fryer, toss it with a few teaspoons of vegetable or olive oil in a separate bowl. This method is ideal for cooking fresh meats and vegetables. Ensure you only add a small amount of oil to prevent splattering, which can cause smoke and damage the heating element.

Brushing with Melted Butter:

If your recipe calls for butter, such as with hot sandwiches or dough-based dishes, use a pastry brush to evenly coat your food before placing it in the air fryer.

Greasing the Food vs. the Basket:

Instead of greasing the basket, consider greasing your food directly. This ensures no excess oil pools or splatters in the air fryer, reducing the risk of smoke and sticking.

Foods That Don't Need Added Oil:

Some foods, such as frozen fries, pizza rolls, and other frozen options, already contain oil. Adding more oil to these foods can make them too greasy.

Never Use Non-Stick Cooking Spray:

Avoid using non-stick cooking sprays in your air fryer at all costs. These sprays can damage the non-stick coating of the air fryer basket, making it difficult to reduce oil usage in the future. If you need to use a cooking spray, only spray it directly onto the food, not the basket, and do so before turning on the air fryer.

Cleaning Your Air Fryer:

It is important to clean your air fryer regularly, especially after greasy or oily cooking. Always allow your air fryer to cool down before cleaning. Remove any grates or baskets and handwash them with hot, soapy water, using a soft sponge or cloth. For tougher messes, soak the components in soapy water for 30 minutes to an hour before scrubbing gently. Wipe all parts dry with a clean towel and let them air dry completely before reassembling.

For the interior of the air fryer, knock out any loose crumbs and wipe up any visible oil. Use a damp towel or cloth with warm water to wipe out the interior, including the coil. For stubborn grease, use warm soapy water and gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush if needed.

Non-stick cooking spray

Air fryers are a fantastic addition to your kitchen, allowing you to cook fried foods in a much healthier way. However, it is important to care for your air fryer correctly, especially when it comes to the non-stick coating.

The general consensus is that you should not use aerosol-based non-stick cooking sprays on your air fryer's basket. This is because the chemicals in aerosol sprays can wear down the non-stick coating, causing it to chip and possibly get into your food. Instead, opt for non-aerosol sprays, or even better, a mister with a high-smoke-point oil like avocado, extra-virgin olive, or grapeseed oil.

If you do use a spray, it is recommended to pair it with a liner, such as silicone or parchment paper. This way, you protect the non-stick surface, and the spray can help add some extra crispiness to your food.

To clean your air fryer, it is best to avoid abrasive cleaners and scrubbers, as these can also damage the non-stick coating. Instead, fill the basket with water and add a few drops of grease-fighting dish soap, like Dawn Ultra. Turn on the fryer for a couple of minutes, then rinse. For tougher, stuck-on food, a paste made from baking soda and lemon juice can be effective.

Remember, always check your manufacturer's instructions for specific directions on how to care for your air fryer.

Air fryer maintenance

Air fryers are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, allowing you to cook fried foods with minimal oil. However, they do require regular maintenance to keep them in good working order and ensure your food tastes great. Here are some detailed instructions on how to maintain your air fryer:

Cleaning the Air Fryer

• Always allow your air fryer to cool down before cleaning. Unplug the appliance and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
• Remove all the detachable parts, including the basket, tray, and pan.
• Wash these removable components with warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid using abrasive materials as these can scratch the non-stick coating.
• For stubborn grease or charred food, let the parts soak in hot soapy water for 10-15 minutes, then scrub gently with a non-abrasive sponge. Alternatively, you can use the dishwasher if the parts are dishwasher-safe.
• For any remaining residue, create a paste with baking soda and water, scrub it on with a soft-bristle brush, and then wipe it clean.
• Wipe down the interior of the air fryer, including the heating element, with a damp cloth or sponge dipped in warm soapy water. Ensure you dry it afterward with a clean cloth.
• Turn the air fryer upside down and wipe down the heating element.
• Clean the exterior with a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent, then dry it with a paper towel.
• Reassemble the air fryer once all the parts are thoroughly dry.

Frequency of Cleaning

It is recommended to clean your air fryer after each use to prevent charred food and grease buildup. The basket, tray, and pan should be washed either by hand or in the dishwasher, depending on the model. The exterior of the air fryer can be wiped down less frequently, such as after every few uses. The heating coil only needs to be checked every few months for oil residue.

Grease Disposal

When disposing of grease, never pour it down the sink. Instead, wait for it to cool, then put it into a plastic bag and throw it in the trash. You can also use paper towels or napkins to soak up the grease and then dispose of them.

Tips

• Avoid using metal utensils, steel wool, or abrasive sponges as these can damage the non-stick coating.
• Do not submerge the entire air fryer in water, as this can cause electrical issues or shock hazards.
• To remove strong food odors, rub a halved lemon over the basket and let it sit for 30 minutes before washing.
• Always check the owner's manual for specific instructions and cleaning tips for your particular model of the air fryer.

By following these maintenance steps, you can ensure your air fryer remains in good condition and continues to produce delicious, healthy fried foods.

Frequently asked questions