Air fryers have taken South African kitchens by storm, promising quick, crispy meals with less oil and a healthier twist.
For busy households, this countertop gadget has often felt like a culinary game-changer.
But while it’s great for certain dishes, it’s not the miracle appliance some social media posts might make it out to be.
Why the Air Fryer Isn’t a One-Stop Solution
Despite all the hype, the air fryer does have its limits.
As home cooks experiment with new recipes, a few common mistakes can turn dinner into a disaster.
Knowing what not to cook can save time, frustration, and even your appliance.
1. Popcorn Can Be Dangerous
It might sound fun, but popping kernels in an air fryer is risky.
They don’t get the consistent, high heat needed to pop properly, and stray seeds can land in the heating element, creating a fire hazard.
For popcorn, it’s safest to stick to a stove-top pot or microwave.
2. Grains Like Rice, Pasta, and Beans
Air fryers aren’t designed for cooking grains. Dishes like dhal, jasmine rice, or beans require water, which the air fryer can’t handle effectively.
Using a pot, stovetop, or pressure cooker will give much better results.
3. Single Slices of Toast
While an air fryer can handle toasted sandwiches, placing individual slices of bread in the basket often ends in disappointment.
The bread can become dry and crumbly—or even stick to the heating element mid-cook. Classic toaster methods still win here.
4. Large Cuts of Meat
XL air fryers may allow for small roasts, but whole chickens, legs of lamb, or big beef cuts rarely cook evenly.
You risk a burnt exterior with a raw interior, which isn’t the kind of surprise anyone wants at the dinner table.
5. Greasy or Fatty Foods
Foods that are naturally high in fat, such as bacon or fatty sausages, can cause excessive smoke and even damage the air fryer’s heating element.
While the appliance reduces fat in most dishes, too much oil or grease can turn into a safety hazard.
Bottom Line: Know Your Air Fryer’s Strengths
Air fryers excel at convenience cooking, perfect for fries, frozen snacks, and crispy chicken wings.
But they aren’t a replacement for every kitchen tool. Keeping your pots, pans, and oven nearby ensures you can still tackle dishes the air fryer isn’t suited for.
So enjoy your air fryer, but don’t expect it to do everything.
Understanding its limits keeps your meals—and your kitchen—safe.
