Air Fryer Cheese Curds: How Long To Fry?

Cheese curds are a delicacy in Canada and parts of the US, and they're even better when they're fried. But frying them can be a messy and unhealthy process. This is where the air fryer comes in. Air fryers can create crunchy, crispy cheese curds without the need for copious amounts of oil. The process is simple: coat the curds in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs, freeze them for a bit, and then fry them in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes. The result is a delicious, gooey snack that's perfect for any occasion.

How to make cheese curds in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Cheese curds
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
• Olive oil spray
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Italian seasoning
• Parsley
• Parmesan cheese

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) or 400°F, depending on the recipe you follow.
• Prepare three bowls: one with flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; one with whisked eggs; and one with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, parsley, salt, and pepper.
• Dip each cheese curd into the flour, then the egg, and then the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure it is fully coated each time.
• Dip the coated cheese curd back into the egg, and then into the breadcrumb mixture again.
• Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil.
• Place the cheese curds in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. You may need to cook in batches.
• Spray the tops of the cheese curds with olive oil.
• Air fry at 350°F or 400°F for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips

• Freeze the cheese curds for 10-60 minutes before cooking to help them keep their shape.
• Double-dip the cheese curds in the egg and breadcrumb mixture to ensure they are fully coated and to prevent the cheese from melting out during cooking.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket – cook in batches if needed.
• Don't skip the olive oil spray – this will help the cheese curds crisp up and turn golden brown.

The benefits of using an air fryer

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Here are some of the key benefits of using an air fryer:

Health Benefits

One of the main advantages of using an air fryer is the health benefits it offers. Air fryers require far less oil than traditional deep fryers, resulting in meals that are lower in fat and calories. The hot air generated by the fryer envelops the food in a perforated basket or on a rack, producing crispy results without the need for oil. This makes it possible to enjoy fried foods without the associated health risks.

Speed and Efficiency

Air fryers are known for their speed and efficiency. They cook much faster than traditional ovens or stovetops, thanks to the intense heat that is constantly circulated inside the fryer. Many models also have a short preheat time or don't require preheating at all. This means you can have a meal ready in just minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Ease of Use and Cleanup

Air fryers are very easy to use. You simply set the temperature and time, place the food in the basket, and let the fryer do the rest. Cleanup is also a breeze, as there is minimal mess due to the small amount of oil used. Most air fryer baskets can be washed with soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge, or even placed in the dishwasher.

Versatility

While air fryers are often associated with frying foods like French fries, onion rings, and cheese curds, they can do much more. They are versatile enough to handle a wide variety of dishes, including vegetables, chicken, fish, and even desserts. Many air fryers come with additional accessories, such as baking pans or grill grates, that allow for even more cooking options.

Compact Size and Portability

Air fryers are relatively small kitchen appliances, taking up minimal counter space. They are also easily transportable, making them ideal for camping, RVs, or other travel situations. Despite their compact size, they can accommodate a good amount of food and often have a larger capacity than traditional fryers.

Cost-Effectiveness

Air fryers are surprisingly affordable, with prices ranging from $50 to $150 on average. This makes them a cost-effective way to enjoy healthy, delicious meals without breaking the bank.

How to store and reheat cheese curds

Cheese curds are a delicious snack, but they can lose their freshness and famous squeak if not stored correctly. Here are some tips to keep your cheese curds tasting great and maintain that satisfying squeak for as long as possible.

Storing Cheese Curds

The best way to store cheese curds is to keep them at room temperature. While this may seem counterintuitive, refrigeration causes cheese curds to lose their squeak after 12 hours or less. Keeping them at room temperature can preserve the squeak for a couple of days. If you want to extend their shelf life, storing them in the refrigerator or freezer will do the trick, but they will lose their squeak. Refrigeration and freezing can extend the shelf life of cheese curds from a few days to about three and a half months.

Reheating Cheese Curds

If your cheese curds have lost their squeak and you want to restore it, you can try heating them up slightly. A quick way to do this is to microwave them for about 10 seconds. This will drive out some moisture and restore the squeak. You can then place them in the fridge if you prefer them cold. Another option is to use an air fryer. Simply toss the leftover cheese curds in the air fryer and cook them for about 3 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until they are warm and gooey again.

Other Tips to Preserve the Squeak

Some people experiment with storing cheese curds in brine to see if that helps preserve the squeak. Additionally, keeping cheese curds in an airtight container can help extend their shelf life. If you want to prepare cheese curds in advance before frying, you can bread them and then freeze them for about 30 minutes. This will allow the coating to crisp up before the cheese completely melts.

The importance of freezing cheese curds before air frying

Freezing cheese curds before air frying is a crucial step to achieving the perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a gooey, melted interior. Here are several reasons why freezing cheese curds beforehand is essential:

Shape Retention:

Freezing the cheese curds helps them retain their shape during the frying process. Cheese, by nature, has a low melting point and can easily melt and seep out of its breading. By freezing the curds for a short duration, you allow the cheese to firm up and maintain its form without actually freezing solid. This ensures that the cheese doesn't melt and ooze out of the batter before you get a chance to bite into it, which is part of the joy of eating cheese curds!

Cooking Consistency:

Freezing the cheese curds also contributes to more consistent cooking results. When you freeze the curds, you're giving them a chance to reach a similar temperature, which leads to more even cooking. This helps prevent overcooking or undercooking, ensuring that your cheese curds are perfectly cooked throughout.

Taste and Texture:

Freezing the cheese curds briefly helps maintain the desired taste and texture. It allows the cheese to soften and ooze when you bite into it, providing that signature "squeaky" cheese curd experience. Freezing also aids in achieving a crispier exterior. When the frozen cheese curds hit the hot air of the fryer, they create a delightful contrast of textures, resulting in a golden brown, crunchy exterior and a melted, gooey interior.

Preventing Overcrowding:

Freezing cheese curds beforehand also encourages cooking in batches, preventing overcrowding in the air fryer. By working with frozen curds, you're more likely to fry only a few at a time, allowing for better air circulation and even cooking. This ensures that each cheese curd gets the attention it deserves and results in a higher-quality final product.

In conclusion, freezing cheese curds before air frying is a critical step in the cooking process. It ensures that your cheese curds retain their shape, promotes even cooking, enhances taste and texture, and prevents overcrowding in the air fryer. By following this simple step, you'll be well on your way to creating delicious, crispy, and gooey cheese curds that will be the star of any appetizer spread or snack session!

How to prevent cheese curds from sticking to the air fryer

Air fryers are a great way to cook cheese curds, giving them a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. However, the sticky nature of cheese can cause it to adhere to the air fryer basket, making cleanup a hassle. Here are some tips to prevent cheese curds from sticking to your air fryer:

Use Cooking Spray:

Before placing the cheese curds in the air fryer, coat the air fryer basket with a thin layer of cooking spray. Any oil with a high smoke point in spray form will work. This creates a non-stick barrier, preventing the cheese curds from sticking to the surface and helping to achieve an even golden colour.

Bread the Cheese Curds:

Battering and frying cheese curds is an excellent way to enjoy them. The breading process involves coating the curds in a layer of flour, followed by an egg wash, and finally, rolling them in breadcrumbs. This three-step process helps to create a crispy exterior and also prevents the cheese curds from sticking to the air fryer.

Avoid Overcrowding:

When placing the cheese curds in the air fryer basket, ensure they are arranged in a single layer with adequate space between them. Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and increase the chances of cheese curds sticking to the surface. If necessary, cook the cheese curds in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding.

Use Air Fryer Liners:

Air fryer liners are a convenient way to prevent cheese curds from sticking to the basket. These liners are placed at the bottom of the air fryer, creating a non-stick surface. They not only help with sticking issues but also make cleanup a breeze.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Always preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature before adding the cheese curds. This step is crucial in ensuring even cooking and achieving the perfect crispiness. A properly preheated air fryer can also help prevent cheese curds from sticking to the basket.

Choose the Right Cheese:

The type of cheese used can impact its tendency to stick to the air fryer. Opt for harder cheeses like cheddar or parmesan, which have a lower moisture content. Soft cheeses with higher water content, such as mozzarella or brie, are more likely to release steam and cause sticking issues.

Cut Cheese into Smaller Pieces:

Before placing the cheese curds in the air fryer, cut or slice them into smaller, evenly sized pieces. This helps distribute heat more evenly and reduces the potential for steam buildup, which can cause sticking.

Season the Cheese Curds:

Adding a thin layer of seasoning or breading to the cheese curds can create a barrier between the cheese and the air fryer basket. This helps to prevent sticking and also adds flavour to your dish.

Don't Overcook:

Keep a close eye on the cheese curds while they're cooking in the air fryer. Overcooking can cause the cheese to melt and stick to the basket. Fry the curds for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, and consider flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Frequently asked questions