I’m an Airfryer Expert: The One Mistake That’s Making Your Food Dry

The airfryer might be the UK’s favourite kitchen gadget – but according to a top expert, most of us are still getting a crucial step wrong.

Brits are often still following standard oven or packet instructions, without realising that airfryers need different timings – leaving them with burnt chips or rock-hard chicken.

To help, Martin Senders, Philips’ in-house Airfryer Chef has revealed that the secret lies in knowing that airfryer cooking is a whole different ball game – and it starts with brushing up on your tech knowledge.

“Airfryers are brilliant for getting food crispy and perfectly cooked, but they don’t work like conventional ovens.

“Getting airfryer timings wrong can leave you with food that’s too crispy, soggy, undercooked or even unsafe to eat. The most common mistake is following standard oven timings without adjusting to how your airfryer actually works.

“The simple hack is to get to know your model inside out and check its specific cooking guidelines. Every airfryer is different – capacity, basket type, airflow technology and even added features like steam can all change how quickly food cooks.

“For example, single-basket airfryers often follow a 20% rule, reducing oven times by around a fifth. But as models become more advanced, like the new 5000 Series Steam & Fry Airfryer, cooking times can be up to 40% faster thanks to its Air Steam Technology, which infuses food for a tender texture without sogginess.

Once you understand your airfryer’s timings, you can serve up juicy chicken, perfectly flaky salmon or crisp vegetables in a fraction of the time it would take in an oven.”

Ready to put your new airfryer timing skills to the test? 

The Philips 5000 Series Steam & Fry Airfryer is available now at Currys with £60 off, while stocks last – making it easier than ever to cook delicious, perfectly timed meals every day.

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