The Instant Pot Air Fryer has been making waves in the kitchen appliance world, combining two popular cooking methods – pressure cooking and air frying – into one convenient device. But for those who are new to this innovative tool, it can be a bit intimidating. However, fear not! We have prepared a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to use an Instant Pot Air Fryer, ensuring that you’ll be able to whip up delicious meals in no time.
Getting Familiar with Your Instant Pot Air Fryer
When you first bring home your brand new Instant Pot Air Fryer, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the device before diving into your first recipe. Here is a guide on unboxing and assembling your appliance, as well as understanding its different cooking settings.
1) Parts included and their functions: The Instant Pot Air Fryer comes with several components that work together to create perfectly cooked meals. These include the main unit, air fryer lid, stainless steel reversible rack, removable cooking pot, and detachable power cord. The main unit houses the control panel where you can adjust each cook mode’s temperature and time settings. The air fryer lid seals in heat during air frying or broiling functions. The reversible rack can be used for dual-level cooking or grilling meats using the broil function. And lastly, the removable cooking pot is where all of your dishes will be prepared!
2) Proper cleaning before first use: Before using your Instant Pot Air Fryer for the first time, it’s essential to give it a thorough clean using warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. This ensures any manufacturing residue is removed from all parts of the appliance which could affect food taste if not cleaned properly.
Now let’s take a look at understanding the different cooking settings on your Instant Pot Air Fryer.
There are 7 preset cook modes to choose from: air fry, broil, bake, roast, reheat, dehydrate and rotate. Each mode is specifically designed for a certain type of food or cooking method. For example, the air fry function uses hot circulating air to create crispy fried foods without any added oil. The broil function is perfect for achieving that signature golden brown color on meats and vegetables.
To select a cooking mode, simply press the corresponding button on the control panel and adjust time and temperature as needed using the “+”/”-” buttons. You can also use manual mode for more precise temperature adjustment.
It’s important to note that each preset cook mode has its own recommended time and temperature range based on standard recipes. However, feel free to adjust these settings according to your personal preference or specific recipe instructions.
Tips Before You Start Cooking
This versatile appliance combines the functions of pressure cooking and air frying all in one, making it a great addition to any kitchen. However, there are some things you should keep in mind before getting started.
- Familiarize yourself with all the functions: The instant pot air fryer has multiple functionalities such as pressure cooking, slow cooking, steaming, and of course, air frying. Take some time to get familiar with each function so you know which one best suits your dish.
- Read the manual: It may seem obvious but reading the user manual is crucial before using any new appliance. This will give you important information on safety precautions and how to properly use each feature of your air fryer.
- Preheat for better results: Just like traditional ovens or stovetops, preheating your instant pot air fryer is recommended for optimal results. This ensures that it reaches the desired temperature and cooks food evenly.
- Roll up your sleeves (literally): Cooking with an instant pot air fryer requires handling hot food and trays from inside a compact space. To avoid accidental burns or spills, it’s always best to roll up long sleeves before starting.
- Cleanliness is key: Maintaining cleanliness in between uses will not only extend the lifespan of your air fryer but also ensure that your food comes out fresh every time. Make sure to clean all detachable parts thoroughly and wipe the inside with a damp cloth.
- Stick to recommended quantities: All instant pot air fryers come with instructions on how much food can be cooked at once, so make sure to follow these guidelines for best results. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and potentially ruin your dish.
- Experiment with different recipes: One of the best things about an instant pot air fryer is its versatility in creating a variety of dishes from savory meals to sweet treats. Don’t be afraid to try out new recipes and get creative!
By keeping these tips in mind before starting your culinary journey with an instant pot air fryer, you’ll have a smoother experience and delicious results every time.
Step-by-Step Guide to How to Use an Instant Pot Air Fryer
Once you have purchased your new Instant Pot Air Fryer, the next step is learning how to use it. With its multiple functions and features, it may seem intimidating at first, but with this step-by-step guide, you will be using your air fryer like a pro in no time.
- Preheating your device is an important step in achieving optimal results with your Instant Pot Air Fryer. This will ensure that the cooking temperature is evenly distributed and the food is cooked thoroughly.
- Once you have preheated your device, it’s time to start placing your food into the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket as this can affect air circulation and result in unevenly cooked food.
- Next, select the desired cooking setting for your recipe or type of food you are preparing. The Instant Pot Air Fryer offers a variety of options such as fry, roast, bake, and more to suit all types of dishes.
- After selecting the cooking setting, set the cook time according to your recipe or personal preference using the “+” and “-” buttons on either side of the display screen.
- It’s also important to note that if you are cooking larger quantities of food or thicker cuts that require longer cook times, adjusting cubic feet can help ensure thorough heat distribution throughout each piece.
- Placing items closer together may affect airflow while spreading them out too much may result in unevenly cooked ingredients.
Recipe Ideas for Instant Pot Air Fryer
Breakfast ideas
French toast sticks
One great breakfast idea for the Instant Pot Air Fryer is to make French toast sticks. Simply cut slices of bread into strips, dip them in a mixture of beaten eggs and milk, and then air fry until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Serve with maple syrup or your favorite toppings for a delicious morning treat. You can also cook biscuits in the air fryer for your breakfast.
Frittatas
Another tasty option for breakfast is to make frittatas in the Instant Pot Air Fryer. Beat together eggs, cheese, veggies, and any other desired ingredients before pouring into an oiled pan that fits in the air fryer basket. Cook until set and golden brown for a quick and easy breakfast dish.
Lunch & Dinner Options
Cajun chicken tenders
For a flavorful main course meal, try making cajun chicken tenders in your Instant Pot Air Fryer. Season chicken strips with cajun seasoning blend before coating them evenly with breadcrumbs or panko crumbs. Place them in the air fryer basket at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes or until fully cooked.
Loaded sweet potato fries
Give regular fries a twist by using sweet potatoes instead! Cut sweet potatoes into thin wedges or strips before lightly tossing them in olive oil, salt, and any desired seasonings. Air fry until crispy before topping with your favorite toppings like bacon bits, cheddar cheese, and green onions for a delicious lunch or dinner option.
Dessert possibilities
Fresh apple fritters
Satisfy your sweet tooth by making fresh apple fritters in the Instant Pot Air Fryer! Mix together diced apples with cinnamon sugar and nutmeg before placing spoonfuls of batter into an oiled pan that fits inside the air fryer basket. Air fry for 8-10 minutes before drizzling with a glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Churro bites
Another delicious dessert option is to make churro bites in the Instant Pot Air Fryer. Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon and salt together before mixing it into a dough using melted butter and milk. Roll each dough ball in cinnamon-sugar mixture before air frying at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for around 7-9 minutes until golden brown. Serve with chocolate or caramel dipping sauce for an indulgent treat!
Conclusion – How to Use an Instant Pot Air Fryer
Using an Instant Pot Air Fryer is a convenient and efficient way to cook delicious meals. If you’ve ever wondered how to use an Instant Pot Air Fryer, you’re in the right place. By following the simple steps outlined in this blog, you can easily make crispy and healthy dishes in no time. With its versatility and speed, the Instant Pot Air Fryer is a must-have appliance for any kitchen. So why not give it a try and take your cooking skills to the next level?
FAQs
Can I use the Instant Pot Air Fryer for baking?
Yes, you can use an Instant Pot Air Fryer for baking. It has a Bake function that allows you to bake items such as cakes, muffins, and breads in addition to air frying your favorite dishes. This makes it a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle multiple cooking methods at once.
Can I cook frozen foods directly in the Instant Pot Air Fryer?
In most cases, it is not recommended to cook frozen foods directly in the Instant Pot Air Fryer. It is best to thaw the food first before cooking for optimal results.
How do I adjust the cooking time and temperature for different recipes?
The cooking time and temperature for different recipes can be adjusted by referring to the specific instructions provided in the recipe, experimenting with small changes, and keeping a close eye on the food while it cooks. You can also consult your Instant Pot Air Fryer’s user manual for general guidelines on adjusting time and temperature settings for various dishes.
How do I prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket?
One way to prevent food from sticking to the air fryer basket is by lightly brushing or spraying a thin layer of oil onto the surface before placing the food inside. This creates a non-stick barrier between the food and the basket. Additionally, making sure that your food is not overcrowded in the basket and shaking it periodically during cooking can also help prevent sticking.
Can I use aluminum foil or parchment paper in the Instant Pot Air Fryer?
Both aluminum foil and parchment paper can be used in the Instant Pot Air Fryer, but it is important to use them correctly and only for specific types of food. Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions before using these materials in your air fryer.
