Using Glass Bowls In Air Fryers: Safe Or Not?

Air fryers have become increasingly popular, and people are finding new ways to cook with them. One common question is whether you can use a glass bowl in an air fryer. The answer is yes, but only if it is oven-proof and certain precautions are considered. Oven-safe glass can withstand high temperatures without shattering. However, regular glass cannot go into an air fryer because the sudden temperature change will cause it to undergo thermal shock and shatter. Pyrex, borosilicate glass, and tempered glass are all suitable types of heat-resistant materials for air frying.

Glass bowl usage in an air fryer: safety precautions

Using a glass bowl in an air fryer is possible, but it is important to take certain safety precautions to avoid hazards. Here are some essential instructions to follow when using glassware in an air fryer:

Use the Right Type of Glass:

Firstly, ensure that your glass bowl is made of oven-safe or tempered glass. Borosilicate glass, such as Pyrex, is the safest option for cooking in an air fryer due to its high heat resistance and durability. It can withstand high temperatures and rapid airflow without shattering. Avoid using standard, decorative, or soda-lime glass, as they are more susceptible to cracking or breaking under high heat.

Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes:

Gradual temperature changes are crucial to preventing thermal shock and potential shattering of the glass. Always preheat your air fryer and glass bowl together, or preheat the glass bowl with slightly hot water before placing it in the fryer. Avoid placing frozen or extremely cold glass dishes directly into a hot air fryer, as this sudden temperature change can increase the risk of breakage.

Ensure Proper Air Circulation:

Air fryers cook food by circulating hot air, so it is important to ensure that the glass bowl does not obstruct airflow. Choose a glass bowl that fits securely within your air fryer, allowing adequate space for air to circulate and cook the food evenly. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer or stacking dishes, as this can hinder airflow and result in uneven cooking.

Monitor Cooking Times:

Keep a close eye on cooking times, as they may differ when using glassware in an air fryer compared to other materials. Adhere to the recommended cooking times and temperatures provided in recipes or the air fryer's manual to ensure your food is cooked perfectly.

Handle with Care:

Always use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves when handling the glass bowl, as it will be hot. Place the hot glass bowl on a heat-resistant surface, such as a trivet or cooling rack, and allow it to cool down completely before serving or cleaning.

Check for Deficiencies:

Before using a glass bowl in your air fryer, inspect it for any cracks or deficiencies. Even if the glass bowl appears intact, it is advisable to place it empty in the preheating air fryer to test its durability. This way, if it breaks, it won't ruin your food.

By following these safety precautions, you can confidently use a glass bowl in your air fryer and enjoy the benefits of even heating, non-toxicity, and the convenience of cooking, serving, and storing food in the same dish.

What types of glass are suitable for air fryers?

When it comes to using glass in an air fryer, it's important to choose the right type of glassware to ensure safety and a pleasant cooking experience. Here are the types of glass that are generally suitable for use in air fryers:

Pyrex Glass

Pyrex glass is a well-known and trusted brand for heat-resistant and durable kitchenware. Pyrex dishes are made of tempered glass, which can be either borosilicate or soda-lime glass. Both types offer good to excellent thermal resistance, allowing them to withstand the intense heat and rapid airflow of an air fryer without shattering or cracking. Always check the manufacturer's instructions to understand the specific properties and temperature limits of your Pyrex dish.

Borosilicate Glass

Borosilicate glass is known for its exceptional heat resistance and durability. It can withstand extreme temperatures, making it ideal for use in air fryers. Borosilicate glass can tolerate temperatures up to 400°C for short periods and has a maximum thermal shock range of 170°C. This type of glass is less likely to crack or shatter due to sudden temperature changes.

Tempered Glass

Tempered glass is a type of strengthened glass that has been treated with thermal or chemical processes to increase its durability and resistance to thermal stress. It can comfortably withstand temperatures of up to 470°F (243°C), making it a reliable option for air fryer cooking.

Oven-Safe Glassware

When using glass in an air fryer, it's important to choose oven-safe glassware that is designed to endure high temperatures. Look for the oven-safe symbol on the glassware, which indicates its suitability for extreme temperatures. Additionally, ensure that the glassware is free from any cracks or scratches before using it in your air fryer.

In summary, when selecting glassware for your air fryer, opt for trusted brands like Pyrex, Anchor Hocking, or OXO, which offer oven-safe and tempered glass options. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for safe and effective use.

How to avoid thermal shock when using a glass bowl in an air fryer

Using a glass bowl in an air fryer is possible, but caution is needed to avoid thermal shock. Here are some ways to avoid thermal shock when using a glass bowl in an air fryer:

Check the Glass Type

First, check the type of glass your bowl is made of. Borosilicate glass, such as Pyrex, is a type of tempered glass that is considered the safest choice for cooking. It can withstand high temperatures and rapid temperature changes without breaking. On the other hand, soda-lime glass, recognised by its greenish tint, is not suitable for cooking due to its low heat resistance and tendency to break easily.

Ensure It's Oven-Safe

Always check for the oven-safe symbol on the bottom of your glass bowl. If there is no symbol, do not use it in your air fryer. Pyrex, for example, is rated for a maximum temperature of 425°F (218°C), while other glass cookware may only be rated for 350°F (177°C).

Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Gradual temperature changes are crucial to preventing thermal shock and subsequent cracking or shattering of your glass bowl. Preheat your air fryer and glass bowl together, or preheat the glass bowl with slightly warm water before placing it in the air fryer. This helps to prevent sudden temperature changes and ensures the glass can withstand the high temperatures.

Monitor Cooking Times

Keep a close eye on cooking times, as they may differ when using glass in an air fryer compared to other materials. Adhere to the recommended cooking times and temperatures provided in recipes or your air fryer's manual.

Choose the Right Size and Shape

Ensure your glass bowl fits properly in your air fryer without obstructing airflow. If the bowl is too large, it could prevent hot air from circulating correctly, leading to uneven cooking and potential overheating.

Pros and cons of using a glass bowl in an air fryer

Using a glass bowl in an air fryer has its advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide if using a glass bowl in your air fryer is the right choice for you.

Pros:

• Reviving Old Glass Baking Dishes: Using a glass bowl in an air fryer allows you to utilise your existing glass baking dishes, which may have been used in traditional ovens for years. This can be a cost-effective option as you won't need to purchase new cookware specifically for your air fryer.
• Non-Toxic Even at High Heats: Glass bowls are non-toxic and non-porous, ensuring that odours and flavours don't seep into your food or spill out. This is a significant advantage over some other materials, such as plastic, which can melt and release harmful chemicals at high temperatures.
• Even Heat Distribution: Glass is known for providing even heat distribution, resulting in evenly cooked food. This is due to the ability of glass to retain and distribute heat effectively.
• Suitable for Cooking, Serving, and Storage: Glass bowls can be used for multiple purposes, including cooking, serving, and storing food. This versatility can save you time and effort, as you won't need to transfer food between different containers.
• Heat Resistance: Glass bowls made of borosilicate glass, such as Pyrex, can withstand high temperatures. Pyrex, for example, has a maximum temperature rating of 425°F, ensuring safe usage in air fryers.

Cons:

• Breaks with Sudden Temperature Changes: One of the significant disadvantages of using a glass bowl in an air fryer is the risk of thermal shock. Glass can shatter if subjected to rapid temperature changes, such as placing a hot glass bowl on a cold surface or introducing a cold bowl into a hot air fryer.
• Food Doesn't Get Crunchy Enough: Some people have reported that food cooked in a glass bowl in an air fryer doesn't achieve the desired crispness or crunchiness. This may be a drawback if you're looking for that signature air fryer crispness.
• Potential Damage to the Air Fryer: Using a glass bowl that is not suitable or too large for your air fryer can obstruct the circulation of hot air, leading to uneven cooking or potential overheating. This can, in turn, damage the appliance.
• Specific Precautions Needed: To safely use a glass bowl in an air fryer, several precautions must be taken. These include checking for the oven-safe symbol, preheating the glass bowl, avoiding sudden temperature changes, and ensuring proper air circulation by using the correct size and shape of the glass bowl.

Alternatives to using a glass bowl in an air fryer

While it is possible to use a glass bowl in an air fryer, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure safety. If you don't have a suitable glass bowl, there are plenty of alternative dishes you can use. Here are some alternatives to using a glass bowl in an air fryer:

Parchment Paper

Parchment paper is a good alternative as it is safe at high temperatures, disposable, and non-stick, making food easy to remove and clean up. It also doesn't block heat or air circulation, ensuring even cooking.

Ceramic Bowl

Ceramic bowls are crack-resistant, non-porous, and toxic-free. They retain heat well, making them a great alternative to glass. They are also easy to clean and can fit perfectly in an air fryer, saving time and energy.

Metal Bowl Pans

Metal bowl pans are a common alternative as they are virtually non-breakable. While they may not offer the same even heating as ceramic, they are a durable option. However, they can be challenging to clean, especially if cooking messy food.

Silicone Cookware

Silicone cookware is a safe, affordable, and durable alternative to glass. It is easy to clean, heats up well, and distributes heat evenly. Silicone can withstand extreme temperatures and is completely safe to use in an air fryer.

Steel and Stainless Steel Pans

Steel and stainless steel pans are tried and true alternatives that work great in an air fryer. Smaller pans, around 8 inches in diameter or less, are perfect for making small cakes, cookies, brownies, or cupcakes. They are also suitable for cooking single meals, such as fish or salmon with veggies.

Corning Cookware

Corning cookware that is oven-safe is another fantastic option for use in an air fryer. It is great for making eggs, hash brown casseroles, and other casserole-type dishes in smaller portions. You can even make a single-serve lasagna with corning cookware.

Frequently asked questions