Air Fryer Soup Warming: Is It Possible?

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it's not hard to see why. They offer a healthier way to enjoy fried foods and are more energy-efficient than conventional ovens. But can you use an air fryer to warm up soup? The short answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to keep in mind to avoid a soupy disaster.

Choosing the right container

When choosing a container to heat soup in an air fryer, it is important to select one that can withstand high temperatures. Avoid using plastic containers, as they may melt or release harmful chemicals. Instead, opt for oven-safe dishes made from materials such as:

• Ceramic bowls: These bowls can withstand high temperatures and are great for holding liquids.
• Glass containers: Ensure they are labeled as oven-safe to avoid breaking.
• Metal pans: Metal pans can easily handle the heat generated by air fryers.
• Silicone liners or silicone baskets: These are safe to use in air fryers and can be found on Amazon.
• Aluminum foil: Covering your container with aluminum foil helps retain moisture and prevents splattering.
• Oven-safe glass bowls: Ensure the bowl is heat-resistant and fits well in the air fryer basket without blocking air circulation.
• Pyrex: If it can go in your oven, it can go in your air fryer.
• Ramekins: These small oven-safe bowls can be used for reheating individual portions.
• Paper liners: Parchment paper or disposable paper liners can be useful if you want to avoid the mess of cleaning up afterward.

Portioning your soup

• Understanding Soup Portion Sizes: The most common measurements for soup portions are milliliters (ml), ounces (oz), and grams (g). ML is ideal for liquid volumes, oz is popular in the US for both liquid and solid weights, and grams are typically used for solids and semi-solids but can also be used for chunky soups.
• Standard Soup Portion Sizes: As a guide, a side or appetizer serving of soup is typically 200-300 ml / 7-10 oz, a main course is 350-450 ml / 12-16 oz, and a hearty individual serving is 500-700 ml / 17-24 oz.
• Choosing the Right Container: Select a container that suits the portion size. Smaller soup cups ranging from 8 oz to 12 oz are perfect for lighter servings, while larger sizes like 16 oz and 20 oz cater to hearty portions. Soup bowls, typically ranging from 24 oz to 32 oz, are ideal for larger servings or family-style meals.
• Portion-Control Tools: There are several tools you can use to portion your soup accurately. A ladle holds about 1/2 cup of liquid, snack-size baggies hold about 1 cup packed or 3/4 cup loosely packed, and a shot glass can help you measure salad dressing (about 2 tablespoons).
• Consistency is Key: Maintaining portion consistency is important, especially if you have regular customers or are serving the same soup over multiple days. It builds trust, streamlines kitchen operations, reduces food waste, and helps manage costs.
• Weigh and Measure: For complex or large-batch soups, consider weighing your raw ingredients and using spreadsheets to track macronutrients and vitamins. You can also weigh your entire pot of soup and then divide it into equal portions.
• Portioning for Reheating: If you're portioning soup for reheating later, consider using multiple containers that fit your desired serving size. Pyrex bowls, deli containers, and freezer-safe bags are all great options. This way, you can easily reheat a single portion without having to portion the soup each time.

Thick vs. thin soup considerations

Thick soups may require some additional preparation before reheating in an air fryer. Here are some key considerations when dealing with thick soups:

• Add Liquid: Thick soups tend to dry out or become overly concentrated during reheating. To prevent this, add a small amount of liquid such as broth or water to the soup before placing it in the air fryer. This ensures the soup retains its desired consistency.
• Stirring: Thick soups may require more frequent stirring during the reheating process to ensure even heating. This is especially important if your thick soup contains solid chunks or ingredients.
• Temperature and Timing: Keep a close eye on the temperature and timing when reheating thick soups. They can heat up quickly and may require adjustments to prevent overheating or burning.
• Texture Changes: Reheating thick soups in an air fryer may alter their texture, especially if they contain grains or pasta. If the soup becomes too thick, don't hesitate to add more liquid to adjust the consistency.
• Seasoning: Reheating can sometimes dull the flavours of a thick soup. Consider re-seasoning or adding a splash of broth before serving to enhance the flavours.

On the other hand, thin soups generally require less preparation and can be heated as-is. However, it's important to monitor the heating process closely as they can heat up rapidly. Here are some additional tips for reheating thin soups:

• Portioning: For optimal results, consider reheating thin soups in smaller portions. This ensures even heating and reduces the risk of overheating or burning.
• Container Choice: Choose a container that is suitable for the consistency of your thin soup. A container with a wider opening can facilitate better air circulation and more effective heating.
• Avoid Overfilling: Avoid filling the container too high with thin soup to prevent spills and ensure proper air circulation.
• Stirring: While thin soups may not require as much stirring as thick soups, it's still important to give the soup a good stir midway through the heating process to distribute heat evenly.
• Temperature Check: Thin soups can cool down quickly, so it's important to monitor the temperature closely. Use a food thermometer to ensure the soup reaches a safe temperature of around 165°F (74°C) for consumption.

Steps to reheat soup in an air fryer

Reheating soup in an air fryer is a unique way to enjoy your favourite meals. It can be a quick and easy method that saves time while offering a tasty result. Here are the steps to reheat your soup to perfection:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to around 300 to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating helps create a consistent heating environment, allowing your soup to warm up evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Soup

Pour your soup into an oven-safe dish or container that fits well in the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space at the top to prevent spilling. If you're reheating a thicker soup, consider adding a splash of liquid, such as broth or water, to maintain its desired consistency. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Cover the Container

Cover your soup container with aluminium foil or a lid to keep moisture in while it reheats. This prevents the soup from drying out and helps retain its original flavour.

Step 4: Place the Container in the Air Fryer

Carefully place the covered dish in the air fryer basket, ensuring it doesn't obstruct air circulation.

Step 5: Air Fry Your Soup

Set the timer for 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the volume and thickness of your soup. Check and stir your soup midway through the heating process to ensure even heating and adjust the temperature if needed.

Step 6: Stir and Check the Temperature

After approximately 10 minutes, remove the container (be cautious, as it will be hot) and stir the soup to distribute heat evenly. Check the temperature with a food thermometer to ensure it has reached a safe temperature for consumption, which is at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your soup is heated through, carefully remove it from the air fryer, uncover, and serve in a bowl. Enjoy your perfectly warmed, delicious soup!

Additional Tips:

• Don't overfill your container, as this can lead to uneven heating and mess.
• Monitor the heating process frequently, especially if you're reheating different types of soup for the first time.
• Experiment with cooking times, as they may vary depending on your air fryer model.
• Use a thermometer to ensure your soup reaches the proper safe temperature.

Common mistakes to avoid

Warming soup in an air fryer is a delicate process that requires some care to avoid common mistakes. Here are some key points to consider when using your air fryer to warm soup:

Using an inappropriate container:

Avoid using plastic containers that can melt or warp due to the high temperatures of the air fryer. Instead, opt for oven-safe glass, ceramic, or metal bowls that can withstand the heat. Ensure the container fits well in the air fryer basket without blocking air circulation.

Ignoring portion size:

Pay attention to the amount of soup you put in the container. Filling it too high may result in uneven heating as the hot air circulates. Aim for a portion that fills the container no more than three-quarters full.

Skipping the temperature check:

Soup can cool down quickly, so monitoring the temperature is crucial. Use a food thermometer to ensure your soup reaches a safe temperature of around 165°F (74°C). Avoid setting the air fryer to a high temperature, as this can lead to splattering and uneven heating. Start with a lower temperature and adjust as needed.

Lack of stirring:

As the soup heats up, it may bubble and foam unevenly. Give the soup a good stir halfway through the heating process to distribute heat evenly and create a consistent texture.

Lack of seasoning:

Soup can lose its flavour when reheated. Add a splash of broth or a sprinkle of herbs and spices before heating to enhance the flavour.

Overlooking cleaning:

Air fryers can get messy, especially if the soup splatters during cooking. Clean the air fryer and the container afterward to maintain its performance and lifespan.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can efficiently warm your soup in an air fryer, resulting in a tasty and evenly heated meal.

Frequently asked questions