Cooking Everything in a Ninja Air Fryer: 6 Lessons Learned

As an avid experimenter with kitchen gadgets, I recently undertook a unique challenge that transformed my cooking habits. Intrigued by the versatility of air fryers, I decided to exclusively use a Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer for all my cooking needs for an entire month. Here are six valuable lessons I learned along the way.

Reheating Means Rethinking

One common mishap I encountered early on was overheating leftover pizza, resulting in a disappointing texture reminiscent of cardboard. Adjusting the cooking temperature slightly lower than traditional methods proved crucial for achieving optimal results. Embracing this learning curve is essential when transitioning to air fryer cooking to avoid culinary disappointments.

Microwave + Air Fryer: A Winning Combo

Combining the speed of a microwave with the crispiness of an air fryer led to efficient meal prep. From shepherd’s pies to jacket potatoes, this duo proved to be a time-saving solution. While some air fryer models offer convenient probes for precise cooking, a strategic microwave preheat can also yield excellent results.

Baking Is Easier Than Expected

Contrary to common belief, baking in an air fryer is not only feasible but also faster and cost-effective. Adhering to specific pan sizes and temperature adjustments is key to achieving bakery-quality results. Despite spatial limitations, innovative air fryer models like the Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer open up possibilities for baking full-size cakes with ease.

Experimenting Yields Rewards

Venturing beyond traditional oven recipes, I explored the versatility of the air fryer by experimenting with various dishes. From crispy gnocchi to roasted vegetables, the air fryer proved its adaptability in everyday cooking. While some items like wet batters are best avoided, the air fryer’s versatility offers endless culinary possibilities.

Forget 10-Inch Pizzas

While the air fryer excels in many areas, accommodating large items like 10-inch pizzas can be a challenge. Opting for an air fryer oven or a dedicated pizza oven is essential for pizza enthusiasts. Despite its limitations, the air fryer’s efficiency in most cooking tasks outweighs its size constraints.

My Oven Now Seems Medieval

After a month of exclusive air fryer use, my perspective on traditional ovens has shifted significantly. The cumbersome nature of ovens, from prolonged cooking times to challenging cleaning processes, became more apparent. Embracing the efficiency and convenience of air fryer cooking made my oven feel outdated and impractical for everyday use.

In conclusion, my month-long experiment with the Ninja air fryer was eye-opening. Not only did it streamline my cooking process, but it also encouraged creativity in the kitchen. While traditional ovens still have their place for certain dishes, the air fryer’s efficiency and versatility have transformed my culinary routine. If you’re considering diving into the world of air fryer cooking, the lessons learned from my experience can help you navigate this innovative culinary journey effectively.