Air Fryer Magic: Perfect Over-Easy Eggs

Making over-easy eggs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious breakfast without the mess and hassle of using a stovetop. All you need is an air fryer, a small, round, air fryer-safe pan, and some eggs. You can also add seasoning and oil or butter to the pan to add flavour and ensure the eggs don't stick.

First, spray the pan with oil or add butter and place it in the air fryer basket. Preheat the air fryer for around 5 minutes at a temperature of around 350-400°F. Then, crack an egg into the pan and place the pan back into the air fryer basket. Cook the egg for around 3 minutes for a sunny side up or over-easy egg, adding an extra minute or two for a medium egg yolk. Finally, use a spatula to remove the egg from the pan.

Choosing the right pan for your air fryer

When it comes to choosing the right pan for your air fryer, there are several factors to consider. Here are some guidelines to help you select the best option for your needs:

• Material: Air fryer-safe pans are typically made of materials that can withstand high temperatures, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or silicone. These materials can handle the heat without warping or melting. Silicone pans are flexible, heat-resistant, and suitable for baking goods. Aluminum pans are lightweight and disposable, making cleanup easy.
• Non-Stick Coating: Many air fryer-safe pans have a non-stick coating, which makes food release easier and simplifies the cleaning process.
• Size and Shape: Ensure that the pan fits comfortably inside your air fryer basket without touching the heating element or obstructing air circulation. Air fryer pans come in various shapes, including square, rectangular, round, and oval, to accommodate different recipes.
• Heat Resistance: Air fryer pans should be heat-resistant and able to withstand temperatures up to 400°F (200°C) or higher.
• Ease of Cleaning: Look for pans that are designed for easy cleaning and are often dishwasher-safe. Non-stick surfaces make cleanup more manageable.
• Versatility: Some air fryer pans can be used for multiple cooking methods, such as baking, roasting, and grilling. Grill pans with raised ridges create grill marks and give your food a grilled flavour.
• Compatibility: Check that the pan is compatible with your specific air fryer model, as sizes and shapes may vary between brands and models. Some air fryer manufacturers offer accessory sets designed specifically for their models.
• Depth and Shape: Consider the depth and shape of the pan based on the recipes you plan to make. Shallow pans are suitable for roasting vegetables or making frittatas, while deeper pans are ideal for casseroles and lasagnas.
• Accessories and Sets: Consider purchasing air fryer accessory sets that include various pans, racks, and moulds designed for your air fryer model.
• User Reviews: Read reviews and ratings from other users to get insights into the performance and durability of specific air fryer-safe pans.
• Air Fryer Accessories Set: These sets often include baking pans, grill racks, and other accessories that fit perfectly in your air fryer basket.
• Silicone Baking Pans: Flexible and heat-resistant, silicone pans are great for baking cakes, muffins, and desserts.
• Stainless Steel or Aluminum Pans: Durable and capable of handling high temperatures, these pans are suitable for roasting vegetables, cooking meats, and making casseroles.
• Non-Stick Pans: These pans come in various shapes and sizes and are convenient for easy food release and cleaning.
• Grill Pans: Grill pans with raised ridges create grill marks on foods like chicken, steak, and vegetables, giving them a grilled appearance and flavour.
• Silicone Cupcake Molds: Perfect for making individual portions of muffins, cupcakes, or egg bites in your air fryer.
• Oven-Safe Ceramic or Glass Dishes: Some air fryers allow the use of oven-safe ceramic or glass dishes for baking and roasting. Always check your air fryer's user manual for compatibility and safety guidelines.

How to get the perfect yolk consistency

Achieving the perfect yolk consistency is a delicate art, and with a few simple tips, you can master it in your air fryer. Here's how to get that perfect yolk every time:

• Temperature Control: The temperature you set on your air fryer will have a significant impact on the yolk consistency. For a runny yolk, aim for a lower temperature of around 350°F (177°C). If you prefer your yolks a little firmer, increase the temperature to 370°F (187°C). Be cautious, as higher temperatures may cause the egg whites to become rubbery.
• Timing is Everything: The cooking time directly affects the yolk's consistency. For a runny yolk, fry your eggs for about 3-4 minutes. If you prefer a slightly gooey yolk, add an extra minute. For a completely firm yolk, cook for 8 minutes or more. Keep in mind that air fryer models vary, so it's essential to keep an eye on your eggs during cooking and adjust the time accordingly.
• Use the Right Pan: The type of pan you use can also affect the yolk consistency. Choose a non-stick, oven-safe pan that is shallow and allows for proper air circulation. A small, round pan, such as a 4-inch cake pan or a mini cast-iron skillet, works best. Ensure the pan is well-greased to prevent sticking.
• Preheat and Spray: Before cracking your eggs into the pan, preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures even cooking. Additionally, spray your pan with cooking oil or grease it with butter to prevent sticking and promote a crispy exterior.
• Trial and Error: Every air fryer is unique, and finding the perfect cooking time for your desired yolk consistency may require some experimentation. Start with the recommended times, but don't be afraid to adjust and find the sweet spot that works for your air fryer.
• Serving Suggestions: Air fryer fried eggs are versatile and can be served in various ways. For a classic breakfast, serve them with avocado toast, meat, and hash browns. You can also add them to burgers, sandwiches, ramen, or breakfast pizza. Remember, fried eggs are best enjoyed fresh, as they don't reheat well.

Oil vs butter

When it comes to frying eggs, there are many options for the type of fat to use. The choice between oil and butter is largely a matter of personal preference, taking into account factors such as taste, health, and cooking technique. Here is a detailed comparison between the two:

Taste and Texture

Butter is known for imparting a rich, creamy flavour to eggs due to its high fat content. It complements the taste of eggs and enhances their overall flavour profile. On the other hand, oil can give the eggs a slightly nutty or fruity taste, depending on the type of oil used. For example, olive oil has a nutty taste, while avocado oil lends a nutty flavour with a hint of avocado fruit. Additionally, the egg whites tend to get wonderfully crispy when fried in oil, adding a nice textural contrast to the dish.

Health Benefits

When it comes to health, olive oil and avocado oil are considered "healthy fats" that may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Olive oil, in particular, is rich in monounsaturated oleic acid and phenolic compounds, which have potential heart health and anti-inflammatory benefits. Butter, while delicious, does not offer many health perks. A single tablespoon of salted butter contains approximately 102 kilocalories (kcal) and 11.5 grams (g) of fat.

Cooking Technique

Butter has a lower smoke point than oil, which means it is more likely to burn at higher temperatures. This is something to keep in mind when air frying, as the temperature can be adjusted to suit the fat being used. Additionally, some people prefer to use a combination of both butter and oil when cooking eggs, melting the butter first and then adding oil to raise the smoke point. This combination can provide the best of both worlds in terms of taste and cooking performance.

Other Options

While oil and butter are the most common choices, other fats can also be used for frying eggs. These include ghee (a type of clarified butter with a more concentrated flavour and potential health benefits), margarine (a butter-like spread made from vegetable oils), bacon grease (which gives a rich, smoky flavour), and other types of cooking oils such as corn oil, canola oil, or coconut oil. Each of these options will impart a unique flavour and texture to the eggs, so it's worth experimenting to find your preferred choice.

Seasoning suggestions

While salt and pepper are the most common seasonings for fried eggs, there are many other options to consider when making over-easy eggs in an air fryer. Here are some ideas to elevate your egg dish:

• Spices and Herbs: Experiment with different dried or fresh herbs and spices such as parsley, chives, basil, oregano, thyme, paprika, or cayenne pepper. These additions can add a depth of flavour to your eggs.
• Cheese: Sprinkle your favourite shredded cheese on top of the eggs while they are still hot. Cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack cheese can add a creamy and savoury element to your dish.
• Hot Sauce: A dash of your favourite hot sauce can add a kick to your eggs. Try classic Tabasco, sriracha, or a spicy chilli garlic sauce.
• Soy Sauce: A few drops of soy sauce can add a savoury umami boost to your eggs. For a healthier option, you can also use coconut aminos, which have a similar flavour profile.
• Garlic and Chilli Sauce: If you're a fan of bold flavours, try adding a small dash of garlic chilli sauce to your eggs. This combination will surely wake up your taste buds!
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish your eggs with some freshly chopped herbs such as chives, parsley, or basil. This will not only add flavour but also a pop of colour to your dish.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: For a savoury and crunchy twist, sprinkle some everything bagel seasoning on top of your eggs. This blend of sesame seeds, dried garlic and onion, salt, and poppy seeds will take your eggs to the next level.
• Salt and Pepper Alternatives: If you want to move beyond the classic salt and pepper duo, try using seasoned salts like garlic salt, celery salt, or smoked salt. For pepper, explore different varieties like lemon pepper or rainbow peppercorns, which include pink, green, and white peppercorns for a colourful twist.

Serving suggestions

On Toast

You can serve your air-fried eggs on toast, with some salt and pepper to taste. For a more indulgent option, butter your toast and add a slice of cheese.

With a Hearty Breakfast

Fry up some bacon or sausage links, hash browns, or breakfast potatoes to accompany your eggs. You could also serve them with some fresh fruit, like grapefruit, oranges, cantaloupe, or berries, for a well-rounded breakfast.

On Top of a Burger

Try serving your air-fried eggs on top of a burger for a classic breakfast-style burger.

On a Sandwich

Alternatively, place your air-fried egg between two slices of bread with your favourite fillings for a classic breakfast sandwich.

On Top of Ramen or Fried Rice

For an Asian-inspired meal, serve your air-fried egg on top of a bowl of ramen or fried rice.

On a Breakfast Pizza

Why not try something different and serve your air-fried eggs on a breakfast pizza? It might just become your new favourite!

Frequently asked questions