master-cooks | The Best And Worst Frozen Vegetables To Cook In The Air Fryer

Cooking frozen vegetables in an air fryer can be a convenient and healthy option, but not all vegetables yield the same results. Among the best options are broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. These vegetables tend to crisp up nicely in the air fryer, developing a pleasant texture and flavor due to their sturdy structure. They benefit from the high heat and circulation, which can give them a roasted-like quality. On the other hand, some frozen vegetables don't fare as well in an air fryer. Leafy greens like spinach and kale can become too dry and brittle due to their delicate nature. Similarly, frozen vegetables with high water content, such as zucchini and mushrooms, may turn out soggy rather than crispy, as the air fryer might not be able to remove enough moisture. Additionally, frozen peas and corn can become overly dry and hard because they are small and cook quickly, making it difficult to achieve the desired texture. Overall, for the best results, it's important to choose vegetables that can withstand the intense heat and airflow of the air fryer. Experimenting with cooking times and temperatures can also enhance the outcome, ensuring a delicious and satisfying dish.

Not all frozen vegetables have a place in the air fryer

Not all frozen vegetables are suitable for the air fryer. Rachel Buck cautions against using leafy greens like spinach, as they "can burn or become overly dry." Vegetables such as spinach, arugula, kale, and broccoli rabe require minimal heat to reach their ideal temperature. Cooks often joke that a pan full of spinach can shrink to just a few leaves in an instant, making pan-frying a better option for easier control.

Buck also notes that zucchini can be problematic in air fryers. "While it can be air-fried, it often turns mushy due to its high moisture content," she explains. It's best to skip the air fryer for beautifully spiralized zucchini or the larger pieces typically found in frozen bags. However, slicing raw zucchini into thin chips can yield a delightful snack.

One major error when cooking mushrooms is to overlook their potential in the air fryer. Buck points out that they can release too much moisture and become soggy. Sautéing mushrooms remains a reliable cooking method, and there's no reason to abandon it now. To achieve their rich brown color, mushrooms require a sufficient amount of oil and fat, as well as ample space in the pan—conditions that air fryers simply can't provide.

The Best And Worst Frozen Vegetables To Cook In The Air Fryer

Not all frozen vegetables have a place in the air fryer

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