Air Fryer Pogos: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious

If you're looking for a quick and easy snack, air fryer pogos are the way to go. They're a healthier alternative to deep-fried corn dogs, and can be made from scratch or straight from the freezer. With a crispy, crunchy outside and a juicy, tender inside, these pogos will be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they're ready in just a few minutes, making them the perfect snack for any occasion.

Choosing the right oil spray

When making corndogs in an air fryer, it is important to use the right oil spray. While some recipes suggest that no oil spray is needed, others recommend using an oil spray to achieve the perfect crispiness.

Firstly, it is important to note that non-stick cooking spray should be avoided, as it can ruin your air fryer. Instead, opt for an oil spray, such as olive oil spray, to coat the bottom of your air fryer basket. This will help to ensure that your corndogs don't stick and will also contribute to the desired crispy texture.

When choosing an oil spray, look for one that is specifically designed for high-heat cooking, as this will ensure that it can withstand the temperatures of your air fryer without burning or smoking. Additionally, look for a product that has a good spray mechanism that won't clog easily, as this will make it easier to apply a light and even coating to your air fryer basket.

Some recommended oil sprayers include the Evo Oil Sprayers, which are known for their functionality and ability to spritz oil evenly. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can also try using a refillable oil sprayer, which you can fill with your choice of oil.

Remember, when using an oil spray, less is more. You only need a light coating on the bottom of your air fryer basket to achieve the desired results. Using too much oil can make your corndogs greasy and can also create smoke in your air fryer.

By choosing the right oil spray and using it correctly, you'll be well on your way to making delicious and crispy air fryer corndogs!

Preparing the batter

To prepare the batter for pogos in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

• Cornmeal (preferably finely ground yellow cornmeal)
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Sugar
• Salt
• Buttermilk
• Eggs

In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. Next, add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until combined. Make sure there are no lumps or streaks of flour in the batter. Finally, transfer the batter to a tall glass, leaving enough room to dip the pogos without overflowing.

You can also add some breadcrumbs to a separate bowl and set them aside. This will be used to coat the pogos after they have been dipped in the batter.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for pogos, or corn dogs, in an air fryer depend on the size of the corn dogs and the type of air fryer you are using.

For regular-sized corn dogs, air fry at 370°F/188°C for 8 minutes. Then, flip the corn dogs over and air fry for another 2-4 minutes, or until heated through.

For mini corn dogs, air fry at 370°F/188°C for 6 minutes. Then, gently shake and flip the mini corn dogs over and air fry for another 2-4 minutes, or until heated through.

If you are using a toaster-style air fryer, the cooking time will be a little longer. If you are only cooking 1-2 corn dogs in a large air fryer, it will also take longer to heat up. It is recommended to do a test run with one corn dog first to get a better idea of the ideal timing for your specific air fryer model.

Additionally, some air fryer brands cook differently, so you may need to experiment with the timing. Check the corn dogs after 8 minutes and continue cooking in 1-2 minute intervals until they are done to your desired level of doneness.

It is important to note that you should not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the corn dogs in a single layer, and if you need to cook more, do so in batches. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.

Some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer to 360°F/187°C for 5 minutes before adding the corn dogs and cooking for 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Another option is to cook the corn dogs at 400°F/204°C for 6-8 minutes without any added oil. There is no need to thaw frozen corn dogs before air frying, and you can serve them with your favourite condiments like ketchup, mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch.

Dipping sauces

Pogo peppers sauce is a great option for your pogos. The sauce is sweet and savory with a habanero kick, backed by the tang of cranberry and the deep flavor of rosemary.

Honey Mustard Sauce

This sauce is perfect for chicken fingers or wings. It is made with yellow mustard, dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, garlic, salt, lemon juice, and cumin.

Horseradish Mayo Sauce

This sauce is great for steak. It is made with prepared horseradish, smoked paprika, mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cumin.

Spicy Ketchup

This sauce is perfect for fries and has a kick to it. It is made with ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Sriracha.

Garlic Aioli

This sauce is a great dip for artichoke leaves. It is made with garlic, lemon juice, tahini, salt, cumin, and water.

Chick-Fil-A Sauce

This sauce is great for chicken nuggets, grilled chicken, or French fries. It is made with mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, honey, and mustard.

Storing and reheating

Storing

If you want to store your pogos, it is best to freeze them. They can be frozen and stored in freezer bags, just like the boxes you get from the grocery store.

Reheating

There are several ways to reheat your pogos, depending on the equipment you have available.

Air Fryer

If you are reheating a frozen pogo, pierce the pogo with a toothpick or a fork to allow for steam to escape. Then, place the pogo in the preheated air fryer and cook for approximately 1 minute at 300°F. Allow the pogo to cool slightly before serving.

Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°Fahrenheit. Prepare a baking sheet by covering it with aluminum foil. Cut the pogos into pieces, if desired, and place them on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until they are hot throughout (the internal temperature should be at least 160°F).

Microwave

Thaw your pogos by placing them in the microwave for 4-5 seconds. Then, remove the pogos from their packaging and place them on a microwavable plate. Heat for 90 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on your microwave's wattage and power level. Allow the pogos to cool before eating.

Stove

Heat a skillet with deep sides or a griddle over medium heat on the stove. Coat the surface well with cooking spray. Cook the pogos in the pan until browned on the bottom, about 2 minutes. Turn the pogos and cook until heated through—about 2 minutes longer for frozen pogos and 3 to 4 minutes for refrigerated ones.

Grill

Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Wrap the pogos in foil and place them on the hot grill. Grill for 5 minutes, then turn them over and grill for another 5 minutes or until heated through. Remove the pogos from the foil and serve immediately, being careful not to burn yourself as they will be hot.

Toaster Oven

Heat a toaster oven to 350°Fahrenheit. Place the pogos on a baking sheet and bake for 5 minutes. Remove the pogos from the oven, turn them over, and bake for another 3 minutes. Serve with your favorite condiments.

Tips

• Corn dogs are deep-fried food, so they have a relatively high-fat content. This means they can heat up quickly and get very hot.
• Be careful not to overcrowd your cooking equipment, as this can affect the cooking time and temperature.
• Always allow your pogos to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning yourself.
• If you are cooking from frozen, you may need to adjust the cooking time.

Frequently asked questions