Out in the great outdoors, an air fryer has become a game-changer for campers looking for quick, convenient, and delicious meals.
However, as it’s always easy to throw some food in an air fryer and turn it on, it’s important to balance indulgence with health-conscious choices, even if you are in the middle of nowhere.
This article explores creative ways to make air fryer cooking a great tasting experience and a health-conscious one.
Why an air fryer is a healthier cooking method
An air fryer is considered a healthier cooking appliance for many reasons.
Reduced Oil Usage – Air fryers use much less oil than pan frying. Some of the ways to fry foods have been submerging your food in hot oil. This can lead to higher calorie and fat content. Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook the food. This requires only a small amount of oil for a crispy texture.
Lower Fat Content – by not using as much oil, the fat content of the food is reduced. This can help if you are looking to reduce your calorie and fat numbers.
More nutrients remain – Air fryers cook food quickly. This keeps the nutrients in the food much more than the food prepared with a longer cooking method. Shorter cooking time helps vegetables and other ingredients keep their vitamins and minerals.
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Less smoke and odor – Pan frying can make plenty of smoke and strong odors. Which is not ideal if you are cooking in an RV or overlanding vehicle. Air frying generates much less smoke and odor, which is especially beneficial in a small kitchen.
Ease of cleanup – When using the air fryer, remember that pan frying requires the disposal of the used grease. At the same time, the air fryer is cleaned with a simple wipe-down.
Choose your oil
If you’re going to use oil, deciding on which oil to use in your air fryer can be confusing. The best one to use is one with a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
Using a spray bottle to lightly coat the food with oil is best. This helps control the amount used.
Here are some choices.
Olive oil – Extra Virgin olive oil is a healthy choice with a moderate to high smoke point. It does have a distinct flavor, so it’s best to use this oil with items that are similar in taste.
Avocado oil – This oil has a high smoke point as well. It would be considered a neutral flavor and contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Canola oil – Another high smoke point oil with a mild flavor. It is also low in saturated fat.
Peanut oil – This high smoke point oil has a nutty flavor. Be careful with this oil if there are people with peanut allergies. Paul and I use this oil only for making popcorn.
Grapeseed oil – This mild flavored, high smoke point oil is low in saturated fat, which makes it a great air frying oil.
Coconut oil – Refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point than unrefined (virgin) coconut oil. It does add a hint of coconut flavor, which makes it a good choice for some meals.
Sesame oil – Toasted sesame oil has a lower smoke point, so it’s best to use it together with other oils. It has a rich flavor, so it is best with similar flavors.
Ways to use the air fryer
An air fryer can be a very convenient way to cook while at a campsite. The name almost shouldn’t be a fryer because oil is not always needed to air fry.
Here are some ideas to make healthy foods during your camping trip.
Grilled vegetables – Cut your favorite vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Toss them in a very small amount of olive oil, salt, and your favorite seasonings. Air fry until they are crispy on the outside.
Sweet potato fries – Make thin strips and toss with a spritz of olive oil, paprika, and salt. Air fry until crisp.
Fish tacos – Season the fish fillets with chili powder, cumin, and lime. Air fry until the fish is flaky. Serve on tortillas with salsa and cabbage.
Stuffed mushrooms – Fill mushrooms with a mixture of spinach, feta, and garlic. Air fry them until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is hot.
Kale chips – Here’s a really healthy option. Remove the kale leaves from the stems and tear them into small pieces. Spritz oil and salt on the kale and air fry until crisp.
Air-fried fruit – This is one of Paul’s favorites. Coat the apple or banana slices with a bit of cinnamon and air fry until they are caramelized. I serve it with yogurt or just eat them on their own.
Salmon packets – Place the salmon fillets on foil and season with herbs and lemon slices. Seal the foil packet and air fry until the salmon is flaky.
Quinoa-stuffed bell peppers – Mix cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Stuff the mixture into the halved bell peppers and air fry until the peppers are tender.
Crispy tofu bites – Toss tofu cubes with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstart. Air fry them until they are golden and crisp.
Garlic parmesan broccoli – Mix broccoli florets with minced garlic and parmesan cheese, and spritz with police oil. Air fry until the broccoli is roasted and full of flavor.
Spiced chickpeas – Spritz chickpeas with olive oil and your favorite spices. Air fry them until they are crunchy. This makes a great, healthy, portable snack.
Healthy air fryer tips
Limit the amount of oil you use. Using an oil spray is a much better way to keep your air frying healthier.
Use whole grains instead of processed grains. Opt for things like quinoa or brown rice. They provide more fiber and nutrients compared to refined grains.
Monitor your cooking time because every air fryer is different. Air fryers cook quickly; overcooking can lead to dry or less nutritious meals.
Try experimenting with different cooking styles. Grilling, roasting, or baking in addition to frying.
Always include plenty of vegetables to make a well-balanced, healthy meal.
Finally
By indulging in health-conscious cooking, you’ve not only satisfied your taste buds but also nourished your body.
Remember that your air fryer is a small, convenient oven. It can be taken anywhere and was made to help you make your meals more enjoyable while camping.
Nibbler Tip: If you are going to use a spray oil, remember that a refillable oil spray bottle is much healthier than a can of Pam spray.
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