Guide to Air Fryer Accessories: What to Buy and What to Avoid

Welcome back! Last week, I asked you to vote on the video topic you wanted to see next, and the winner was air fryer accessories. So, here it is! In this video, I’ll show you the most popular accessories you can buy, tell you which ones I use, which ones are gathering dust in my cupboard, and highlight items you might already have in your kitchen that can do the job without extra cost.

Essential Air Fryer Accessories

1. Tongs

The one accessory I guarantee you’ll use is a set of tongs. They’re also one of the least expensive items to buy. You’ll use them nearly every time you cook for turning or lifting food out of the drawer. Make sure to get the kind with silicone tips to avoid damaging the nonstick coating on your drawers.

2. Racks

Racks are popular among new air fryer owners, but they often end up unused. There are two main types: stacking racks and specialty racks. Stacking racks have two or three layers to fit more food while allowing air circulation. However, they don’t always use space efficiently and rarely double capacity as promised. Specialty racks, such as those with skewers for kebabs, can be useful but are limited by the air fryer’s size.

3. Toast Rack

You can cook toast in your air fryer, and some people even replace their toaster with their air fryer. The toast rack can also be used for items with a large surface area but not too thick, like frozen burgers or hash browns.

Handy but Optional Accessories

4. Poultry Turning Fork

Turning whole chickens in your air fryer can be tricky, but a poultry turning fork can help. However, a regular carving fork can do a similar job.

5. Conversion Chart

A conversion chart is a must-have for new air fryer owners. You can get a free one linked in the description below. It helps you translate recipes from a conventional oven to an air fryer quickly.

Controversial but Popular: Silicone Liners

6. Silicone Liners

Silicone liners are highly debated among air fryer users. Some find them great for containing mess and cooking wet foods like lasagna. However, they can be difficult to clean and are poor heat conductors, which can slow down cooking times. I personally don’t recommend them, but they can be useful for lifting dishes in and out of the drawer if they have handles.

DIY and Budget-Friendly Solutions

7. Tin Foil Sling

A tin foil sling is a simple, DIY solution for lifting dishes in and out of your air fryer. Place tin foil underneath a container in your drawer, making sure it doesn’t stick out too much.

8. Oven Mitts and Lifters

Small silicone oven mitts or normal oven gloves can also be used. There are specially designed lifters available that work best on dishes with a lip. They are useful and reasonably priced at around $10.

Ovenproof Alternatives

9. Ovenproof Dishes

Anything ovenproof can be used in an air fryer. I use metal takeaway-style dishes, ceramic dishes, and smaller cake tins that fit perfectly in my air fryer. These are great for batch cooking and can be reused.

Keeping Your Air Fryer Clean

10. Disposable Liners

Disposable liners made from greaseproof paper, either with sides or flat and perforated, help keep your air fryer clean. Ensure they are weighted down to prevent them from blowing into the heating element and catching fire.

Mini Molds and Ramekins

11. Silicone Molds and Ramekins

Mini silicone molds or ramekins are perfect for individual portions. While silicone is a poor heat conductor, it’s non-stick and ideal for small items. Metal pudding basins or ovenproof ramekins are also excellent for individual dishes.

Meat Thermometer

12. Meat Thermometer

A meat thermometer is essential, especially for cooking chicken. It helps ensure your food is cooked perfectly. Some air fryers come with built-in probes, but I prefer a standalone thermometer for versatility.

Oil Application

13. Oil Sprayer

To achieve a crispy finish, you need to apply oil to your dishes. Use a silicone brush or a refillable oil spray bottle. Avoid pre-filled oil sprays as they can damage your air fryer’s non-stick coating.

Conclusion

I hope you found this guide helpful and perhaps saved some money. If you have any questions or comments, please drop them below. I read all the comments and love hearing from you. Don’t forget to hit the subscribe and notification buttons if you want to see more videos like this.