master-cooks | Why Cooking Rice In The Air Fryer Is Never A Good Idea

Cooking rice in an air fryer is generally not recommended due to the fundamental differences in cooking methods between an air fryer and traditional rice-cooking appliances like rice cookers or stovetop pots. Air fryers utilize a fan and heating element to circulate hot air around food, creating a crispy, fried texture. This method is ideal for foods that benefit from dry heat, such as fries or chicken wings, but not for rice, which requires moist heat to cook properly. Rice needs to absorb water and steam to become tender and fluffy, a process that air fryers are not designed to accommodate. The lack of adequate moisture control and the inappropriate cooking environment can lead to unevenly cooked rice, with parts of it being undercooked and hard, while other parts may be overcooked or dried out. Furthermore, the air fryer's basket or tray does not support the even distribution of heat and water necessary for rice. Attempting to cook rice in an air fryer could also result in starch buildup, making it difficult to clean. For best results, it's advisable to use appliances specifically designed for cooking rice, ensuring it turns out perfectly every time.

There's one way to use air fryers for rice

Just because you shouldn't store uncooked rice in your air fryer doesn't mean you can't prepare rice with it. In fact, your air fryer is a great tool for crisping up rice that’s already been cooked.

You can use it for both freshly cooked rice and leftovers. However, keep in mind that fresh rice tends to be stickier, while rice that has been chilled in the fridge is drier and less starchy. If you want your air-fried rice to hold together or maintain a specific shape, fresh rice is the better option. On the other hand, if you're aiming to create the best fried rice possible, using leftover rice is ideal to prevent clumping.

When crisping cooked rice in your air fryer, you can use it plain or add a little oil or a splash of sauce. Set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about 10 minutes, remembering to stir it halfway through for even crispiness. Air frying pre-cooked rice is also a fantastic way to enhance the texture of your rice dishes, and it’s much quicker and simpler than pan-frying.

Why Cooking Rice In The Air Fryer Is Never A Good Idea

There's one way to use air fryers for rice

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