8 Things to Keep in Mind Before Cooking Fish in an Air Fryer

Cooking fish perfectly is nothing short of an art, but cooking fish also involves an elaborate affair, which may not appeal to those who are always in a jiffy. Well, if you too love fish and want to enjoy perfectly cooked fish in just a few minutes by cooking it in an air fryer, here are some simple guidelines that will help you prepare perfectly cooked fish without spending hours on it . in the kitchen. So, follow us through some simple tips and tricks that can help you enjoy fish without much effort.
Choose the right type of fish
Not all fish is made for the air fryer. Firm, meaty fish like salmon, cod, tilapia, haddock and trout are excellent choices because they hold up well to cooking. Delicate fish like flounder or sole may not be ideal as they could fall apart. When in doubt, opt for fillets or steaks rather than thin or flaky fish.

Preheat
Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures that the fish cooks evenly as soon as you place it inside. Preheat the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes at the temperature you plan to cook your fish at. This will help avoid undercooked or unevenly cooked fish.
Coat with oil
For a crispy, golden crust, lightly coat your fish with oil. You can either spray the fish with cooking spray or brush it with a thin layer of olive oil, melted butter, or avocado oil. This step allows the fish to become crispy without adding too much excess fat or calories. Be careful not to overdo it with the oil.
Season generously
Fish can have a mild flavor, so don’t be afraid to season it well. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika and lemon zest work wonderfully. For added flavor, you can also use herbs like dill, parsley or thyme. Be sure to season both sides of the fish to maximize the flavor in each bite.

Don’t overload
To ensure your fish cooks evenly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Air should circulate around the fish for optimal crispiness. If you are cooking multiple fillets or pieces of fish, it is best to cook them in batches, leaving some space between each piece.
Manage the temperature
Fish cooks quickly in the air fryer and it’s easy to overcook it. The ideal internal temperature for most fish is around 145°F (63°C). Use a food thermometer to make sure the fish is cooked through. If you are cooking a thicker fillet, check the center portion for doneness, as the edges may cook more quickly.
Return
For even cooking and crisping, turn your fish halfway through cooking. This ensures that both sides get that beautiful golden crust. Depending on the thickness of your fish, cooking time will vary, but flipping will ensure even results.
Let it sit
As with any other meat, letting your fish rest for a few minutes before serving will help retain its juices and allow its texture to set. This also gives the fish time to cool slightly, making it easier to handle and enjoy.