Why You Should Never Put Bacon in the Air Fryer

Air fryers have taken the culinary world by storm, offering a simpler, healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. By using hot air to cook food, they drastically reduce the need for oil, aligning with the modern pursuit of healthier eating habits. However, despite their versatility, food experts and chefs globally caution against using air fryers for certain foods. Bacon, a beloved staple in many diets, tops the list of foods that are better cooked by other means.

Why You Should Never Air Fry Bacon

Health Concerns

One of the primary benefits of cooking bacon in traditional methods is the rendering of fat, which can be drained away, reducing the grease content of the final product. In an air fryer, the bacon sits in its rendered fat throughout the cooking process, potentially increasing the grease and fat content in each bite. Additionally, high temperatures can cause the fat to splatter inside the air fryer, posing a risk of the fat oxidizing and creating unhealthy compounds.

Compromised Taste and Texture

Bacon’s allure lies in its perfect balance of crispy edges and chewy textures, a feat difficult to achieve in an air fryer. The rapid air circulation can dry out the bacon too quickly, missing the mark on texture. Furthermore, the smoky flavor that bacon aficionados cherish can be diminished due to the air fryer's cooking method, which doesn’t allow for the bacon to caramelize in its own fat, a key process for flavor development.

Practicality Issues

Air fryers, given their design, can accommodate only small batches of bacon, making it impractical for preparing larger meals. Additionally, the potential for grease buildup inside the air fryer can lead to messy cleanup and lingering odors, detracting from the convenience that makes air fryers so appealing.

Tips for Cooking Bacon to Perfection

For those seeking the quintessential bacon experience, traditional methods still reign supreme. Cooking bacon in a skillet on the stove allows for better control over the cooking temperature, ensuring that the bacon cooks evenly and achieves the desired balance of crispy and chewy. The skillet also allows the fat to render away from the bacon, making it easier to drain and resulting in a crispier finish. Alternatively, baking bacon in the oven on a wire rack over a baking sheet allows for even cooking and easy cleanup, while also rendering out excess fat. For the best results, start with the bacon at room temperature to ensure even cooking and consider flipping the bacon halfway through cooking, whether on the stove or in the oven, to achieve uniform crispiness. Draining the cooked bacon on paper towels will remove any excess fat, delivering the perfect piece of bacon every time.