Air Fryer Hacks: Removing The Tray

Air fryers have become a common appliance in many kitchens, with their ability to cook a wide range of foods, from frozen foods to vegetables, without the need for oil. They are also relatively easy to clean, with removable parts that can be washed with soapy water or placed in the dishwasher. However, one common question that arises is whether the tray inside an air fryer can be removed. The answer is yes, the tray can typically be taken out for cleaning or to accommodate different types of food. Some air fryers come with additional accessories, such as a raised metal rack or a crisper tray, which can be used to optimise airflow and cooking results. It is important to refer to the specific model's manual for detailed instructions on removing and using these components effectively.

The tray should always be washed with soapy water

To wash the tray, start by removing it from the air fryer. Some trays may split into two parts, or have multiple compartments. Place the part or parts in a fresh bowl of soapy water. It's best to use a mild dish soap, such as Method's, which is available on Amazon. Wash the tray with a sponge—avoid using a metal scourer as this could scratch the surface. Finally, hand dry the tray with a towel.

If you don't like the idea of handwashing your air fryer tray, you can buy special air fryer liners, which can be placed in the dishwasher after each use.

It's also important to wipe down the front of your air fryer with an all-purpose cleaner, as this area can become sticky from fingerprints and splatters during cooking. Use a damp microfiber cloth and an all-purpose cleaning spray, and then go over it with a dry microfiber cloth to remove any bacteria.

Bleach should not be used to wash the air fryer

Yes, you can take the tray out of an air fryer. Many air fryers have a removable wire rack or a "crisping tray" that sits at the bottom of the appliance.

Now, while it is important to keep your air fryer clean, bleach should not be used to wash it. Bleach can ruin the non-stick surface of the air fryer basket. Instead, it is recommended to wash the basket with soap and water after every use. Although some baskets are advertised as dishwasher-safe, it is better to wash them by hand, as the dishwasher can corrode the non-stick surface over time.

Parchment paper can be used to line the air fryer

Yes, you can take out the tray of an air fryer. In fact, some people choose to place parchment paper underneath the tray to make cleaning easier. However, this can affect airflow and cooking time, so it's important to be mindful of this.

Cut the parchment paper to the size of the bottom of your air fryer basket, or slightly smaller, to allow for good air circulation. Perforating and trimming the paper can further assist with airflow and allow grease to drain away. If you are preheating your air fryer, do not add the parchment paper until afterward, when it can be weighed down by food. Otherwise, it may fly about inside the basket and come into contact with the heating element.

Parchment paper is particularly useful for cooking foods that may stick to the basket, such as chicken wings or crab cakes. It can also be used when making foods with dough, such as calzones or fried Oreos, to prevent them from seeping through the basket. However, it is important to note that using parchment paper may affect airflow and cooking times, so it is recommended to flip your food occasionally to ensure even cooking.

If you are concerned about waste, consider using a silicone liner instead of parchment paper. Silicone liners are reusable, dishwasher-safe, and allow for better airflow than parchment paper.

The air fryer should not be overfilled

Yes, you can take the tray out of an air fryer. Some air fryers have trays that split into two parts, while others have multiple compartments.

Now, onto why you shouldn't overfill your air fryer:

The main reason not to overfill your air fryer is that your food will not cook properly. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, and if the air fryer is too full, the hot air will not be able to circulate properly. This will result in uneven cooking, with some areas of the food getting too hot and others not getting hot enough. This can also be dangerous, as it can create hot spots that could potentially start a fire.

Another reason not to overfill your air fryer is that it can damage the appliance. Air fryers are designed to cook a certain amount of food at a time, and if they are overloaded, they can be overworked and break down. This is especially true if you are cooking foods that produce a lot of steam, such as vegetables. The excess steam can condense on the inside of the air fryer and drip onto the heating element, causing it to short circuit.

Additionally, overfilling your air fryer can lead to increased cooking times. When the air fryer is too full, it takes longer for the hot air to circulate and reach all the food, resulting in longer cooking times. This can be inconvenient if you are in a hurry or trying to cook multiple batches of food.

Finally, overfilling your air fryer can affect the taste and texture of your food. Air fryers work by crisping and browning the outside of the food while keeping the inside moist and tender. If the air fryer is too full, the hot air will not be able to circulate properly, and the food will not cook evenly. This can result in soggy or undercooked food, or food that is burnt on the outside and raw on the inside.

In conclusion, it is important not to overfill your air fryer to ensure that your food cooks properly, to protect the appliance, and to achieve the best possible taste and texture. Assess what food needs to be cooked and think about what can be cooked well without oil in the air fryer. For example, chicken might be better pan-fried, while fries might taste better from the air fryer.

The air fryer should be cleaned after every use

Yes, you can take the tray out of the air fryer. In fact, it is important to do so in order to clean it properly. Air fryers should be cleaned after every use to ensure that your device lasts longer and to prevent the build-up of dirt, grime, and crumbs, which can easily become baked onto the inside of the appliance.

Firstly, make sure your air fryer is turned off and unplugged from the mains. Allow the device to cool down if you have recently used it. Then, take out all the removable parts, including the tray, and detach the component parts. Clean each part with warm water and a mild dish soap, using a soft sponge or cloth to get into every gap in the basket. Avoid using the rough side of the sponge, as this can damage the non-stick coating.

For burned-on crumbs or stubborn residue, create a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected areas. Leave it on for around 20 minutes, or gently buff it with a toothbrush if you're in a hurry. Finally, rinse and dry all the parts before reassembling your air fryer.

It is also important to wipe down the outside of your air fryer, including the handle and touchscreen or knobs, as these can become sticky and dirty from frequent handling. Additionally, the heating element inside the air fryer should be cleaned occasionally, but be careful not to get it too wet. Again, the baking soda paste can be useful here, applied with an old toothbrush.

By maintaining a regular cleaning routine for your air fryer, you can ensure that your appliance remains in good condition, your food tastes its best, and you avoid any potential health risks associated with bacteria and cross-contamination.

Frequently asked questions