How to heat food in the airfryer: easy and quick tips
If you want to know how to heat food in the airfryer, know that this appliance is much more versatile than you think. Besides making food crispy, the airfryer is also great for reheating ready meals quickly, practically, and preserving the original flavor.
In this article, I will show you a simple step-by-step guide to heat your meals in the airfryer and share valuable tips to make your kitchen routine easier. Check it out!
Heating food in the airfryer: does it really work?
Yes! The airfryer is an excellent option for reheating food, especially those that become soggy or limp in the microwave. It acts like a turbo oven, with hot air circulation that heats the food evenly, helping to restore the crispy texture and original flavor, especially in fried and roasted dishes.
Some foods that reheat very well in the airfryer include:
- Cheese bread
- Pizza
- Coxinha and snacks
- Pastry
- French fries
- Various breads
- Lasagna and pasta
- Rice with beans
- Meats such as steak and chicken
- Breaded foods and nuggets
- Roasted vegetables
Guide to heating food properly in the airfryer
To ensure perfect reheating, follow these steps:
- Preheat the airfryer for about 3 to 5 minutes to ensure that the heat distributes evenly.
- Set the ideal temperature, usually between 160°C and 180°C, depending on the food.
- Arrange the food in the basket evenly, avoiding stacking or overcrowding so the hot air can circulate properly.
- Reheat in stages in the case of meals with several items (for example, rice, beans, and meat), to ensure even heating.
Time to heat different types of food in the airfryer
Times may vary depending on the food. See the recommended times below:
- Rice, beans, pasta: 7 to 10 minutes
- Meats (steak, chicken, sausage): 8 to 12 minutes
- Breaded and fried snacks: 6 to 8 minutes
- Pizza: 5 to 7 minutes
- Roasted vegetables: 7 to 10 minutes
- Bread and cheese bread: 4 to 6 minutes
Remember to turn or stir the food halfway through the time for even heating.
Use parchment paper to facilitate cleanup
If you want to avoid mess in the airfryer or prevent cheese and sauces from sticking, use perforated parchment paper at the bottom of the basket. Never use tightly wrapped aluminum foil, as this blocks the airflow and may damage the appliance.
Also note that small or dry foods heat up faster, so test small amounts the first few times to adjust the time correctly.
Is it possible to defrost food in the airfryer?
Yes, the airfryer can be used to defrost food, but with some precautions. It is not designed to defrost like a microwave but works well for pre-cooked and portioned foods, such as frozen lasagna, ready snacks, and frozen meals in containers.
To defrost in the airfryer, follow this method:
- Use a low temperature, between 120°C and 140°C, during the first 5 to 10 minutes to defrost without cooking.
- If needed, increase the temperature to 160°C to 180°C to finish heating.
- Cover sensitive foods with perforated aluminum foil or parchment paper to avoid surface burns.
Foods that should not be heated in the airfryer
Not all foods are suitable for reheating in the airfryer, as some lose quality or texture. See which ones to avoid:
- Foods with a lot of liquid sauce, like soups and broths
- Overly creamy and moist dishes, like purees and escondidinhos
- Sushi rice and delicate preparations
- Meats with a lot of sauce or fat, which can splatter and dirty the airfryer
In these cases, the microwave or stove remain the best options for reheating.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to efficiently heat food in the airfryer, try setting aside leftovers or meals in your home to reuse. The airfryer is a great ally to make your food crispier and tastier, saving time and avoiding waste.
With the tips we shared, your dishes will be delicious, without drying out, and the heating will be uniform. Enjoy this convenience that the airfryer offers in your everyday kitchen life!
Thank you for following along! I hope this information has clarified your doubts and inspired you to use your airfryer in new ways. Good luck and see you next time!
