As air fryers deliver food cooked with less oil and in less time, the question on everybody’s minds is can you cook popcorn in an air fryer?
While popcorn is easy to cook on the stove and takes a couple of minutes, the curiosity of cooking it with an air fryer and less oil is intriguing.
With that said, let’s explore air fryer popcorn, covering everything from how to make it, the benefits, and the common questions surrounding it.
Can You Make Popcorn in an Air Fryer?
In short, YES!
It is a quick and healthier alternative to traditional stovetop or microwave popcorn.
How to Make Popcorn in an Air Fryer
Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to around 390°F (200°C). It is crucial to let it reach the desired temperature before adding the popcorn.
Step 2: Prepare Your Popcorn
While your air fryer is heating up, prepare your popcorn.
If you are using loose kernels, measure out the desired amount (usually 1/4 to 1/2 cup, depending on your air fryer’s size).
Place them in a microwave-safe bowl with a microwave-safe plate or microwave-safe lid, leaving a small gap for steam to escape. This is crucial to prevent popcorn explosions!
If you are going with microwaveable or bagged popcorn, you are already halfway there.
Step 3: Cooking
Place the bowl or the bag in the air fryer basket, ensuring proper air circulation.
Close the air fryer and set the timer for about 8-10 minutes.
Keep a close eye on the popping process; when the popping slows to around 2 seconds between pops, it is time to turn off the air fryer.
Don’t forget to gently shake the basket after 30 seconds or so for even cooking.
Step 4: Season Your Air Fryer Popcorn
While your popcorn is still warm, season it with salt, butter, caramel, or whatever you prefer with your popcorn. And your air fryer popcorn is ready!
The Advantages of Air Fryer Popcorn
Healthier Option
Air fryer popcorn uses less oil than traditional methods, making it a healthier snack choice. You can also control the seasoning, reducing excess salt and butter if desired.
Quick and Easy
Air fryers are known for their speed. Making popcorn in an air fryer is a breeze, taking less time than conventional stovetop popping methods.
Less Mess
No more pots or pans to clean up! Air fryers are easy to clean, and there is no greasy mess left behind.
FAQs
1. Is air fryer popcorn healthier than microwave popcorn?
Yes, air fryer popcorn is generally considered healthier as it uses less oil and allows you to control the seasoning.
2. Can you make bagged popcorn in an air fryer?
You can indeed make bagged popcorn in an air fryer. Just place the unopened bag in the air fryer basket and follow the cooking instructions on the popcorn bag.
3. Can you pop popcorn in an air fryer without oil?
You can make oil-free popcorn in air fryers. Just skip the oil and proceed with the kernels as mentioned earlier. The hot air will do the job of popping without the need for added oil.
4. How long to cook popcorn in an air fryer?
The cooking time for popcorn in an air fryer is usually around 8-10 minutes, but it can vary depending on your air fryer’s model. Keep an eye (and ear) on it; when the popping slows down, it is ready!
To Sum Up
In conclusion, making popcorn in an air fryer is a fantastic snack hack. It’s quick, easy, and allows you to enjoy a healthier version of this beloved treat.
So, the next time you’re gearing up for a movie night, consider making popcorn using your air fryer.
Have you cooked popcorn with air fryers? Comment below!