Best Air Fryer-Safe Bowls For Easy Cooking

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people turning to them as a more energy-efficient way of cooking. One common question that people have about air fryers is what types of bowls can be used with them. The short answer is that any oven-proof dish or container can be used in an air fryer, including those made of glass, ceramic, metal, or silicone. However, there are some important safety precautions to consider when using certain materials, especially glass.

Glass bowls

The type of glass is also important. Borosilicate glass, such as Pyrex, is a type of tempered glass that is considered the safest choice for cooking in an air fryer. It can withstand high temperatures without shattering. On the other hand, soda lime glass, which has a greenish tint, should be avoided due to its low heat resistance and tendency to break easily.

It is also important to avoid sudden temperature changes when using glass bowls in an air fryer. Thermal shock can occur when a glass dish experiences a rapid change in temperature, causing it to shatter. Therefore, it is recommended to let the glass cool down naturally or reach room temperature before placing it in a heated air fryer, and vice versa.

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

When using glass bowls in an air fryer, it is also recommended to preheat the empty bowl in the air fryer while it is preheating. This will help identify any cracks or deficiencies in the glass before adding food. If the glass bowl passes the heat test, add the ingredients and cook according to the recommended time and temperature.

By following these precautions, you can safely use glass bowls in your air fryer and enjoy the benefits of even heating, non-toxic material, and the convenience of using the same dish for cooking, serving, and storage.

Ceramic bowls

Secondly, since air fryers are smaller than conventional ovens, the heat source is much closer to the food. This means that food in a heat-conductive ceramic bowl will cook faster and may burn. Therefore, it is important to adjust the cooking time accordingly and to be prepared to remove the bowl from the air fryer earlier than expected. It is also a good idea to have oven mitts ready, as the bowl will become hot.

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the ceramic bowl is safe for temperatures higher than the one you are cooking at. If a ceramic bowl is heated beyond its designated safety zone, it may crack or shatter. For this reason, it is best to use containers that are specifically designed for use in an air fryer. Ceramic ramekins are a good option, as they are designed to withstand high temperatures.

Finally, it is worth noting that some people have expressed concern about the paint on their ceramic bowls burning off in an air fryer. While this may not be a common issue, it is something to keep in mind when choosing a bowl to use in your air fryer.

Metal bowls

When using metal bowls in an air fryer, it's important to consider the heat conductivity of the material. Metal is an excellent heat conductor, so your food will cook faster than if it were in a bowl made of a different material. Therefore, you may need to adjust the cooking time or temperature to avoid overcooking or burning your food. Always use oven mitts when handling metal bowls, as they can get very hot.

Another thing to keep in mind is the size and shape of the metal bowl. Ensure that it fits properly in your air fryer without obstructing airflow. If the bowl is too large, it could block the hot air from circulating properly, leading to uneven cooking or potential overheating.

It's also worth noting that while metal bowls are safe to use in an air fryer, not all metals are created equal. Some metals may have a lower melting point or be more susceptible to warping or discolouration at high temperatures. Stainless steel is a popular choice for oven-safe metal cookware and is generally safe to use in an air fryer.

Additionally, it's important to avoid using any metal bowls that have non-stick coatings, as the high temperatures of the air fryer could damage the coating. Similarly, avoid using any metal bowls with sharp edges or uneven surfaces, as these could damage the coating on the air fryer basket.

Overall, metal bowls are a safe and convenient option for air frying, but it's important to follow the necessary precautions to ensure optimal results and maintain the condition of your air fryer.

Silicone bowls

When purchasing a silicone bowl for your air fryer, it is important to ensure that it is the correct size for your air fryer model. Silicone bowls come in various sizes, ranging from 6.3 inches to 8.7 inches in diameter, so you can find one that fits your air fryer perfectly.

Some silicone bowls have handles, which can be convenient for removing the bowl from the air fryer, but be aware that these handles can also get very hot, so always use oven mitts when handling them.

Overall, silicone bowls are a safe and practical option for air fryers, and their flexibility and heat resistance make them a good choice for air fryer cooking.

Oven-safe bowls

When it comes to air fryers, it is important to remember that any oven-safe dish can be used. This means that you can use oven-safe glass, metal, ceramic, or silicone bowls in an air fryer. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, avoid using plastic bowls in an air fryer as the high temperatures will cause the plastic to warp, melt, or even shatter. Regular glass bowls that are not oven-safe should also be avoided for the same reason. Even oven-safe glass bowls can break in an air fryer due to thermal shock, so it is important to look for the oven-safe symbol and ensure the bowl is rated for the correct temperature.

Additionally, the size and shape of the bowl matter. Make sure the bowl fits properly in your air fryer without obstructing the airflow, as this can lead to uneven cooking and potential overheating. It is also important to note that using a bowl in an air fryer may affect the cooking time as the bowl conducts heat, so adjustments may be necessary.

Overall, oven-safe glass, metal, ceramic, and silicone bowls can be used in an air fryer, but it is crucial to follow the safety precautions and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Frequently asked questions