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1. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket
Air fryers work by circulating hot air. Overloading the basket blocks airflow, leading to uneven cooking. Arrange food in a single layer whenever possible, especially for items like fries or chicken wings.
2. Use a Light Oil Spray
A small amount of oil helps achieve crispiness, but avoid soaking food in oil. Use a high-smoke point oil (like avocado, canola, or olive oil) and lightly mist your food. Avoid aerosol cooking sprays with propellants—they can damage the non-stick coating.
3. Preheat for Best Results
Some air fryers require preheating, others don’t. If yours does, preheat it for 2–5 minutes before cooking to ensure even temperature from the start—especially important for meats and baked goods.
4. Shake or Flip Halfway Through
Give the basket a good shake or flip your food halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning and crispness on all sides, especially with fries, vegetables, and small items.
5. Use Parchment or Foil (But Wisely)
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