master-cooks | Yes, You Can Make Soup In An Air Fryer, But Here's What To Know First

Making soup in an air fryer might seem unconventional, but it's entirely possible with the right approach. The air fryer, known for its ability to crisp and roast, can also be used to prepare a simple, hearty soup. To start, you'll need to ensure your air fryer has a suitable capacity and compatible accessories, like an oven-safe bowl or dish, to hold the liquid. Begin by sautéing vegetables directly in the air fryer basket for a roasted flavor, adding a small amount of oil and seasoning as desired. Once the vegetables are slightly browned, transfer them to a heatproof dish or bowl that fits inside the air fryer. Add broth or water, along with any other desired ingredients like proteins or grains, ensuring there's enough liquid to cover them. Set the air fryer to a moderate temperature and allow the soup to simmer, checking occasionally to ensure even cooking and to stir the contents. While an air fryer may not replace traditional stovetop methods, it offers a unique way to infuse soups with a rich, roasted taste. Just be mindful of the air fryer's limitations in terms of capacity and liquid management to prevent any spills or overflows.

Tips for making the ultimate air fryer soup

Air fryers provide a quick and convenient method for preparing various types of soup, though some recipes may yield better results than others. For example, when using meat, it's advisable to opt for rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked sausage instead of raw proteins. This approach allows you to cook your proteins and vegetables simultaneously without the risk of cross-contamination. Additionally, using a store-bought broth as your soup base can save time, as creating a rich broth in an air fryer might require more effort than it's worth.

When developing your recipe, it's crucial to take into account the cooking times of different ingredients. Tender vegetables like shallots and zucchini cook significantly faster than denser options such as potatoes and butternut squash. To avoid burning the softer veggies, consider air frying them separately or using a timer to remove them at the right moment. Furthermore, legumes, grains, and pasta need to be cooked in liquid to soften properly. For dishes like chili or chicken noodle soup, you might want to boil your beans or noodles while the soup vegetables are cooking.

If you're preparing a bisque or another creamy soup, it's best to blend it before returning it to the air fryer to heat everything through. Be sure to season your dish before this final cooking step to allow the flavors to meld. Once your soup is ready, you can enjoy it immediately or prepare a quick and delicious air fryer sandwich to complement your meal.

Yes, You Can Make Soup In An Air Fryer, But Here's What To Know First

Tips for making the ultimate air fryer soup

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