Can You Make Popcorn In An Air Fryer?
Undeniably, it takes some trial and error attempts before you can master the art of making popcorn in an air fryer.
But once you master the “how,” you might become addicted to tossing a spoonful of kernels in the air fryer and having your way with them.
Yes, you can make popcorn in an air fryer. It’s an easy and quick way to make fluffy and perfect popcorn within eight to ten minutes. Once you try air-fried popcorn, you will become a fan of its convenience and simplicity in popping kernels.
How To Make Popcorn In An Air Fryer
Follow the below-mentioned Air fryer popcorn recipe for better taste and results:
- Place a piece of foil or parchment paper at the bottom of the air fryer basket. This covers the perforations so that kernels don’t escape through the holes and drop on the air fryer drawer.
- Take one-fourth cup of popcorn kernels and mix one teaspoon of oil or butter in it.
- Add salt to taste.
- Put oiled kernels into the air fryer basket.
- Make sure the kernels are spread out without overlapping to allow even popping.
- Cook them at 400F.
- The kernels will start popping after about three minutes.
- Let the air fryer cook for 5-8 minutes.
- Stop the air fryer when there is no popping sound coming out of the unit.
- Let the air fryer sit to allow the remaining kernels to pop.
- Take out the basket and transfer the popcorn into a bowl.
Risks Associated with Cooking Popcorn in the Air Fryer?
Now, let’s talk about the elephant in the room. The biggest risk associated with making popcorns in an air fryer is that the kernel or popcorns can bounce as they are not heavy enough to stay down.
Consequently, they may reach the air fryer's heating element and cause smoke or a fire hazard. For this reason, people might be hesitant to make puffed corn in an air fryer.
Here are the tips for safely popping kernels in your air fryer.
First, you must never leave your air fryer alone while popcorn is popping inside.
Turn the unit off if you notice any smoke from the air fryer to avoid more damage.
As soon as you hear that no popping sound is coming from the air fryer, stop the air fryer and dish out the popcorn.
A quick tip: If you are apprehensive about using an air fryer, the traditional method of making popcorn in a pan is still better than eating microwaved popcorn.
FAQs
Can you make popcorn with out oil in an air fryer?
Yes, using an air fryer to make popcorn without oil is quite easy. But if you want your popcorn to be extra buttery and fresh, mix a little butter or oil with the kernel before putting them in the air fryer basket.
How long does popcorn take in the air fryer?
Making popcorn in the air fryer does not take approx. 8 minutes. Put a foil in the air fryer and toss popcorn kernels on it. Turn on the air fryer for five-to-eight minutes at 400F. Open the air fryer drawer when the popping sound slows down.
Is air-popped popcorn healthy?
Yes, they are totally healthy. Air-popped popcorns are low in calories and high in fiber. Besides, air frying does not require any oil. So, they are healthier than the most popular low-calorie snack foods.
Why is air fryer popcorn not popping?
Popcorn kernels don’t pop up if they are low or high in water content. For the kernels to pop, they must have 14-15% moisture, and anything less or more won't let them pop up. You can check the moistness with your fingers.
Can you put a bag of microwave popcorn in an air fryer?
No, you should not put bag of microwave popcorn in the air fryer basket. The corn kernels bag has a microwave safe coating that will burn with the hot air of the air fryer.
Quick Summary
Ingredients
- Popcorn kernels: ¼ cup
- Butter/oil: two tbsp.
- Salt: to taste
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Measuring cup
- Parchment paper
- Bowl for serving
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Final Words
Popcorns are the ideal snacks for health-conscious people. Low in calories, sugar, and fat and high in fiber, it's a perfect fit for your fitness regime. However, making popcorn at home through traditional methods can often be messy and time-consuming. Using an air fryer is an incredibly easy way to make popcorn, requiring few ingredients. However, it's crucial not to leave the air fryer unattended while kernels are popping. In addition, if you detect any burning smell, promptly remove the air fryer basket to contain possible damage.