You have made paneer tikka, mixed the marinade and turned on the air fryer. Next is a minor but significant question: will a regular steel bowl fit inside or will a special container be required?
Some metal, glass, ceramic, and silicone utensils are oven-safe and can be used in air fryers as long as they are able to stand up to the cooking temperature, and won’t block airflow. Not all kitchenware will work, however. Do not use plastic bowls, any glassware or utensil with heat-sensitive parts.
Understanding the safe utensils for an air fryer can simplify cooking with confidence, safeguard the device, and enhance the outcomes of simple dishes.By knowing the safe utensils for the air fryer, you can confidently cook without fear, protect your air fryer, and be able to cook your normal recipes with better results.
What Does an Air Fryer Mean when it comes to Utensils?
An air fryer is different from a microwave oven because it circulates hot air around a food, instead of using microwaves to heat it. This warm air aids in creating a crisp crust on the outside, while cooking the food on the inside.
The container you pick for your food will have an impact on the amount of heat reaching the food.
For example, potato wedges will have more hot air circulating around them when they are placed directly on the air fryer grill plate. Place them in a deep, well-packed bowl and they might not cook as evenly.
There are three factors to be highlighted:
- Strength against heat: The utensil should withstand the temperature of cooking.
- Air circulation: There should be enough space between the container and heated air to circulate the air when the food is heated.
- Material safety: The utensil should not melt, crack, give off any harmful substances or damage the appliance.
A vessel can be auspicious for some purposes, but not for others. That distinction matters.
So, what can you use in an air fryer?
There are a number of common household items that can be used in an air fryer. The key element is that the item used must have a specific label indicating that it is suitable to be used in an oven and that it conforms to the manufacturer’s instructions.
1. Magnetic containers and stainless steel bowls
The stainless steel is a practical choice for Indian kitchens as it is easy to clean and can withstand high cooking temperatures.
Is a steel bowl safe for use in an air fryer? Yes, a properly sized stove-safe stainless steel bowl can be used if there are no airflow restrictions or contact with the heating element.
Steel containers can be used for:
- Preparing individual savoury meals
- Cooking appropriate pre-prepared food
- Cleaning the eggs for some egg recipes
- Using a container for dishes that require cooking in a basket or another open container
Don’t use steel utensils with plastic handles or rubber accessories or decorations which are not oven-proof.
Also, keep in mind that metals can get very hot! Always use suitable oven gloves when removing containers.
2. Oven-Safe Glass Containers
Glass can be handy for baked dishes or recipes where you’ll need to see the food.
However, there is one important difference.
Not all glass bowls can be used in the oven.
Any glassware used for drinking, such as ordinary drinking glasses, serving bowls or containers used in a refrigerator, can break from excessive heat.
Use glassware that is specifically designed to be used in an oven and verify the temperature limit and manufacturer’s instructions for the air fryer.
Don’t allow rapid temperature fluctuations. The transfer of a cold glass dish from the refrigerator to the hot air fryer may lead to thermal shock, for instance.
3. Ceramic Bowls and Baking Dishes
During baking of vegetables or desserts, a small baking tray or pan might be helpful for single servings.
Ceramic keeps foods warm, making it ideal for recipes that require slow cooking.
The food, however, should be a specific oven-safe food.
Finishes, glazes or attachments on some decorative ceramic bowls are not recommended for cooking temperatures.
If using a one, check:
- Whether it is labelled oven-safe
- The highest allowable temperature of which it is capable.
- If it has cracked or chipped
- If it fits in the basket comfortably, it is ready for use.If it fits in the basket comfortably, then it is ready to use.
Just because it’s a ceramic serving bowl doesn’t mean it’s a baking dish.
4. Food-Grade Silicone Moulds
Silicone moulds come in handy for making smaller quantities, especially when it comes to baking.
Consider mini muffins, egg bites or small cakes.
Make sure to select silicone moulds that have been marked as food-safe and are approved for air fryers and oven temperatures.
Some flexible moulds can be useful for ease of removal of baked foods, but must be firm in the basket.
Do not put light silicone attachments on items that can be moved by the circulation of air to the heat source.
Which Containers Can’t Be Placed in an Air Frying Pan?
Some materials, though seemingly robust enough for daily kitchen use, are not suitable.
| Container or material | Air-Fryer Friendly? | Important consideration |
| Oven-safe stainless steel | Yes, conditionally | Can only be installed if it fits and allows air to flow through it. |
| Oven-safe glass | Yes, conditionally | Avoid thermal shock |
| Oven-safe ceramic | Yes, conditionally | Check temperature rating |
| Heat-resistant silicone | Yes, conditionally | Use oven rated food safe products |
| Ordinary plastic bowls | No | May melt or deform |
| Melamine plates | No | Not oven safe. |
| Regular paper plates | No | May burn or blaze up |
| Wooden bowls | No | May char or burn |
| Aluminium foil | Conditionally | Where the instructions for the appliance allow. |
What About Plastic Containers?
Avoid any plastic containers unless they are labeled by the manufacturer as safe for use in the air fryer.
Even those labeled “microwave-safe” may not be safe for an air fryer.
Don’t confuse microwave-safe with oven-safe.
The best way to cook foods safely is to place the food in the correct oven-proof container before putting it in the oven.
May I put aluminium foil and baking paper in an air fryer?
Aluminium foil and baking paper are popular cooking tools, but need special attention in an air fryer.
Using Aluminium Foil
In certain air fryers, aluminium foil can be used due to the manufacturer’s permission.
It should not obstruct any necessary openings for ventilation or touch the heating element.
Keep these precautions in mind:
- Read the appliance instructions before using foil.
- Do not put unfilled foil trays in an empty air fryer.
- Do not cover food all over the cooking surface.
- Secure foil under food, if allowed.
Even acidic ingredients such as lemon juice and marinades containing tomato can interact with aluminium. If these recipes require a dish to be placed in the oven, a suitable oven-safe dish may be better.
Using Baking Paper
Use of baking paper may help prevent food from sticking, but only if it is suitable for the cooking temperature and approved by the air fryer manufacturer.
Never preheat an air fryer in which there is loose baking paper. Air can blow up the sheet towards the heating element.
Wax paper is not baking paper.
How to Pick the Best Containers for Indian Cooking?
The choice of utensil will depend on the food you are preparing.
One recipe will work in a shallow baking dish while another will be best when baked directly on the provided grill plate.
Here’s a couple of common place examples.
To make Paneer Tikka and Vegetable Kebabs
The direct exposure of circulating hot air makes panner tikka beneficial.
Place the pieces in a row on the air fryer’s included cooking rack with some space left between each piece.
If the container is too deep, the sides might not get the texture and will have less air flow.
For Samosas and Spring Rolls
Generally, the provided grill plate or basket is better for snacks like samosas and spring rolls.
Where possible, put the snacks in rows.
Don’t stack too many pieces on a surface, there may be spots that are not cooked evenly.
For Cakes and Muffins
A baking tin/silicone mould that fits in the oven can be used, depending on the appliance instructions.
The mould should fit snugly, but not touch the heating element or obstruct airflow.
Baking times may vary depending on the recipe, mould size and appliance.
For Roasted Vegetables
It is easy to grill many varieties of potato, cauliflower and other vegetables directly on the grill plate.
This makes it possible for hot air to get to more of their surfaces.
Using sauces or liquid ingredients may require a special dish that is oven-proof.
What makes all daily cooking easier with Haier Air Fryers?
When your air fryer already comes with a cooking basket and grill plate that are ideally suited for your machine, it will be easier to pick the right pieces of equipment for your cooking tasks.
Haier India has come up with 2 models of air fryers that cater to regular cooking needs: Haier Black Air Fryer (HAF-D503B) and Haier Ivory Air Fryer (HAF-M503I).
They both come with a 3D Hot Air Circulation system, a 1500W heating power and a detachable grill plate and a 5L basket.
Haier Black Air Fryer 5L: Digital Controls for Everyday Cooking
The Haier Black Air Fryer 5L features digital controls and is ideal for everyday cooking.
For those who like digital controls, the Haier Black Air Fryer (HAF-D503B) is created.
Its features include:
- 5L capacity: Space to prepare everyday snacks and meals.
- 1500W heating: Efficient cooking.
- 3D Hot Air Circulation: Circulates warm air around food.
- Digital touch controls: Easily select the cooking settings.
- 6 built-in preset recipes: Provide handy cooking choices.
- Visible window: Allows users to see into the basket without having to open it repeatedly to observe the food.
The visible window helps you to view the colour of snacks like French fries or samosas.
Many traditional dishes can be cooked without an extra piece of equipment, with the provided detachable grill plate.
Haier Ivory Air Fryer 5L: Simple Knob Controls
The Haier Ivory Air Fryer (HAF-M503I) provides another control experience.
It has mechanical cooking time and temperature controls.
Key features include:
- 5L cooking capacity
- 1500W heating power
- 3D Hot Air Circulation
- Easy knob-based controls
- Ten recipe tips, such as paneer tikka, pakoda, pizza & spring rolls
- Detachable grill plate
If you want a manual cooking experience that you are comfortable with, the Ivory model is for you.
All products have a two-year warranty, which is applicable as per the Terms and Conditions.
Importantly, the product information not only lists the cooking parts that are included with the product, but it also does not certify all third party containers. Never add other cookware while the appliance is in use, and always follow the appliance’s instructions.
There are five Safety Checks Before Placing Any Utensil Inside
Even a container that will not burn in the oven can cause issues if not used correctly.
Here are some quick tips to consider before cooking:
- Test the material: Make sure that the utensil is rated for oven temperatures.
- Measure its size: Make sure there is enough space around the container.
- Check for damage: Look for broken glass or chipped ceramic or scratched coatings.
- Keep air flow clear: Do not close critical openings or over load the basket.
- Handle with care: Hot utensils must be handled carefully and ensure appropriate heat protection.
Do not push a full size tool into the basket. In case the container is excessive, pick a smaller sized container or make the food in batches.
Experience a luxury air fryer by Haier India that simplifies air frying, every day
There’s no need to stock up on special tools when it comes to cooking with an air fryer. Many times a ribbon basket and grill plate will provide all that is needed when preparing favorite recipes whether it be crispy snacks or roasted vegetables.
When an additional container is necessary, choose one that is oven-safe, appropriately sized and permitted by the appliance instructions.
The 3D Hot Air Circulation, 1500W heating power and convenient cooking controls have been integrated into Haier India’s 5L Air Fryers to ensure daily kitchen activities. Both models have digital controls or mechanical knobs for preparing a variety of Indian recipes, whichever one you prefer.
Visit the Haier Black and Ivory 5L Air Fryers page on the official Haier India store and select the one that meets your cooking needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can we use a steel plate in an air fryer?
Yes, an oven-safe stainless steel plate may be suitable if it fits securely, does not touch the heating element and allows proper airflow. Check the air fryer’s instructions before use.
2. Can we put a glass bowl in an air fryer?
Only glass bowls specifically rated for oven cooking should be considered. Ordinary glass containers may crack under high temperatures or sudden temperature changes.
3. Can we use aluminium containers in an air fryer?
Oven-safe aluminium containers may be suitable where the air fryer manufacturer permits them. Ensure they do not obstruct airflow or contact the heating element.
4. Can we use a microwave-safe bowl in an air fryer?
Not necessarily. Microwave-safe does not automatically mean oven-safe. Check whether the container is rated for the air fryer’s cooking temperatures.
5. Is silicone safe for air fryer cooking?
Food-grade, oven-safe silicone moulds can be suitable when their temperature ratings and the appliance instructions allow their use. Avoid damaged or unsuitable silicone products.
6. Do Haier air fryers require separate cooking utensils?
Not for every recipe. The Haier Black and Ivory 5L Air Fryers include a cooking pot or basket and detachable grill plate. These supplied accessories can be used for many everyday preparations, reducing the need for separate containers.