Whenever I’m craving a customizable, healthier snack with a satisfying crunch, popcorn is my go-to. That’s why I keep a container of kernels in my pantry at all times. It’s also low-calorie, low-fat and 100% whole grain, making it a rewarding source of fiber for your gut health.
Air-popped popcorn is even better, as it doesn’t require oil. However, since I don’t have a popcorn maker, I make mine on the stovetop with high-oleic sunflower oil. But last time I prepared this snack, I just happened to glance over at my air fryer and wonder: Could I make popcorn in there?
My internet search for an answer led me to a dead end, as some sources say you can make popcorn in an air fryer, while others fervently caution against it. So I decided to go straight to the source: an air fryer manufacturer and professional chefs.
The verdict is in on air fryer popcorn
I reached out to Ninja, makers of the Ninja Crispi, CNET’s pick for the best air fryer overall. While the air fryer is a versatile appliance that can even roast a whole chicken, it can’t pop popcorn -- yet.
Well, technically it can, but that doesn’t mean it should.
"At Ninja, we're always testing the boundaries of what our technology can do, and popcorn in an air fryer is something our culinary and product development teams have explored. However, we advise against trying to make popcorn in an air fryer,” a Ninja Kitchen representative tells CNET. “Air fryers circulate heat differently than traditional popcorn makers, which means kernels don't reach the sustained heat needed in the required time.”
Because popcorn is lightweight, Sharniquia White, chef and registered dietitian, explains that if you try to make it in an air fryer, it can fly up into the device’s heating element, get stuck near the fan, burn from uneven airflow and leave you with a frustrating amount of unpopped kernels. All cons, no pros.
Given the safety hazards and unsatisfying results, you’ll want to avoid using an air fryer for popcorn. At least until the technology catches up.
While air fryers such as the Ninja Crispi Pro can roast an entire chicken, they can't pop popcorn just yet. Ninja
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