Roasting Peppers In An Air Fryer: Is It Possible?

Roasting peppers in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to add a smoky, char-grilled flavour to your meals. It's a versatile method that works for chiles and bell peppers, and can be used in sandwiches, salads, soups, sauces, and more. The process is simple: cut and deseed the peppers, coat them in olive oil, and air fry for 10-30 minutes, depending on the air fryer model. The results are mouthwatering, with minimal prep and cleanup required.

How to prepare peppers for air frying

Air-frying peppers is a quick, easy, and tasty way to cook this versatile vegetable. It's a great method for adding extra flavour to your cooking, and you can use peppers in a variety of dishes, including salads, sandwiches, soups, sauces, and dips.

Choosing the Right Peppers

You can use any type of pepper for air frying, including red, green, orange, yellow, and poblano peppers. Red peppers are the sweetest, while green peppers have a more grassy flavour. Look for peppers that are firm and free from blemishes or soft spots.

Preparing the Peppers

Start by washing the peppers under cold running water. Then, use a sharp knife to cut the peppers in half, removing the stems and seeds. You can also slice the peppers into 1/2-inch thick pieces if you prefer.

Next, brush or toss the peppers with olive oil. This will enhance the flavour and prevent sticking. You can also season the peppers with salt and pepper to enhance their natural sweetness.

Air Frying the Peppers

Preheat your air fryer to between 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the peppers in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them so the hot air can circulate.

Cook the peppers for around 10-30 minutes, depending on the size of your peppers and the power of your air fryer. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't burn, and use tongs to turn them halfway through the cooking time. The peppers are done when they have slightly charred edges and the skin is blistered.

After Air Frying

Once the peppers are cooked, turn off the air fryer and leave the peppers in the basket for about 10 minutes to steam and soften. This will make them easier to peel. You can then use your fingers to gently rub off the skins.

Storing Roasted Peppers

Roasted peppers will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. You can also marinate them in olive oil to extend their shelf life to up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, roasted peppers can be frozen for up to 6 months.

How to cook peppers in an air fryer

Ingredients

You will need peppers (any colour), olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add garlic cloves for extra flavour.

Method

• Start by cutting the peppers in half. Remove the stem and seeds.
• Brush the peppers with olive oil on both sides and add a pinch of salt on the non-skin side.
• Place the peppers in the air fryer basket with the skin facing down. Make sure to leave space between the peppers.
• Cook at 200°C for 10-30 minutes. Note that cooking time can vary depending on the model of your air fryer, so check on the peppers after 10 minutes. They should have charred edges when they are done.
• Let the peppers cool, then remove the skin.
• Cut the peppers to your desired size. You can cut them into strips or leave them in halves.

Tips

• If you are adding garlic cloves, place them in the empty spaces in the air fryer basket.
• The number of pepper halves that will fit in the air fryer basket depends on the model. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may only be able to fit 2 halves.
• You can store roasted peppers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
• To extend the shelf life of the peppers, marinate them in a jar with extra virgin olive oil. This will make them last up to 2 weeks.

How to peel roasted peppers

Roasted peppers are a delicious addition to any meal, but the process of peeling them can be a little tricky. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to peel roasted peppers easily and effectively.

Firstly, choose the right peppers for roasting. Look for fleshy, juicy, and fresh peppers as they are easier to work with and less likely to break during the roasting process, making peeling simpler.

When preparing the peppers, cut off the top and remove the seeds. Then, cut the pepper in half. Brush the pepper halves with olive oil, and add a pinch of salt to the non-skin side.

Now, you can roast the peppers. If using an air fryer, place the pepper halves skin-side down in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. You can add a few garlic cloves to roast alongside the peppers for extra flavour. Cook at 200°C for 10-30 minutes, depending on your air fryer model. Check on them after 10 minutes, and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Once they are done roasting, let the peppers cool down. You can speed up this process by placing them in a bowl and covering it with plastic wrap, or using a paper bag, a pot, or a container with a lid. The trapped steam will help loosen the skin. You can also place them in a bowl of water to capture the smoky flavour and create a smoky stock.

After they have cooled, the peppers are ready to peel. The skin should come off easily, either by rubbing with your hands or using a paper towel. You can also use a dull knife to help remove the skin.

And that's it! Your roasted peppers are now ready to be chopped up and added to your favourite dishes, such as dips, salads, salsas, or roasted meats. Enjoy the sweet and smoky flavour of your freshly roasted and peeled peppers!

How to store roasted peppers

Roasted peppers are a delicious addition to any meal, but how do you store them to ensure they stay fresh and tasty? Here are some detailed instructions on how to store roasted peppers to make them last longer:

Storing Roasted Peppers in the Fridge

The best way to store roasted peppers is in an airtight container in the fridge. This will keep them fresh and tasty for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to use a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent air from getting in and spoiling the peppers. You can also store them in a bowl covered with compostable plastic wrap.

Extending the Shelf Life of Roasted Peppers

If you want your roasted peppers to last even longer, you can try marinating them. Marinating the roasted peppers in extra virgin olive oil will help them stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Simply place the peppers in a jar and cover them completely with olive oil. This will not only extend their shelf life but also add extra flavour to the peppers.

Freezing Roasted Peppers

If you have a large batch of roasted peppers, you can also freeze them. Roasted peppers can be frozen for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Use straight-sided mason jars or vacuum seal bags to remove as much air as possible and prevent freezer burn. Allow the peppers to thaw in the fridge for about 24 hours before using them.

Tips for Storing Roasted Peppers

• Always wash the peppers before roasting to remove any pesticides or dirt.
• It is recommended to remove the skin of the peppers after roasting, as it results in a nicer texture and is easier to digest.
• If you plan on storing the peppers for a longer period, consider blanching or steaming them before placing them in the fridge or freezer. This will help stop the enzymes that cause spoilage and extend their shelf life.

What to serve with air-fried peppers

Roasted peppers are a great addition to any meal. They are full of flavour and packed with nutrients and antioxidants. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air-fried peppers:

Salads and Appetisers

Roasted peppers can be used in a variety of salads, such as a roasted pepper salad, or a simple green salad with a variety of spices. They can also be used as a topping for bruschetta or crostini, or served as an appetiser with hummus or other dips.

Sandwiches and Wraps

Air-fried peppers are a great addition to sandwiches, wraps, and rolls. Try them in a chicken or steak sandwich, or a vegetarian option such as a hummus wrap. They also work well in a toasted sandwich with mozzarella and pesto, or a traditional toastie with salad.

Main Courses

Roasted peppers are a versatile ingredient that can be added to a variety of main courses. They work well with chicken, fish, beef, pork, and vegetarian options. Try them in a chicken casserole, or a hearty lasagne. They can also be blended into a sauce to serve with pasta or shrimp.

Side Dishes

Air-fried peppers can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, such as chicken or sausage. They can also be served as part of a mezze or tapas selection, with dishes such as feta and roasted red pepper dip, or manchego and roasted pepper stuffed mushrooms.

Drinks

For something a little different, why not try roasted peppers in a cocktail? A red pepper margarita is sure to be a talking point at your next party!

Frequently asked questions