Air Fryer Bagels: Can You Really Put a Bagel in the Air Fryer?
Air fryers have become increasingly popular in many households. These kitchen appliances claim to provide a healthier alternative to deep frying, using little to no oil. People are often curious about what they can cook in an air fryer, and a common question that arises is, “Can you really put a bagel in the air fryer?” In this article, we will explore the possibilities of making delicious air fryer bagels and discover if they live up to the expectations.
Why use an air fryer for bagels?
1. Healthier cooking method
Air fryers are known for their ability to provide a healthier cooking method compared to traditional deep frying. Traditional deep frying involves submerging food in oil, which can add unnecessary calories and unhealthy fats. In contrast, air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy texture similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil.
2. Time-saving convenience
Using an air fryer to make bagels can also save you time. Unlike traditional methods that require preheating an oven or boiling the bagels before baking, air fryers heat up quickly, allowing you to start cooking almost immediately. This can be particularly handy on busy mornings when you crave a fresh, hot bagel but don’t have much time to spare.
3. Versatility in cooking
Air fryers are versatile kitchen appliances that can cook a wide variety of foods. From frying to baking, roasting to grilling, air fryers offer numerous cooking options. By using an air fryer to make bagels, you can experiment with different flavors, shapes, and fillings, giving you endless possibilities for a delightful breakfast or snack.
How to make air fryer bagels?
Now that we understand why using an air fryer for bagels can be advantageous, let’s dive into the process of making them.
1. Ingredients
To make air fryer bagels, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1 ½ teaspoons of instant yeast
– 1 cup of lukewarm water
These basic ingredients will allow you to create a simple yet delicious base for your bagels.
2. Mixing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and instant yeast. Mix them well before gradually adding the lukewarm water. Stir the mixture until a dough forms. Once it becomes difficult to stir, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Shaping the bagels
Divide the dough into eight equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and use your thumb to punch a hole in the center. Gently stretch the hole to create a bagel shape. Repeat this process for all the dough portions. Place the shaped bagels on a greased tray and cover them loosely with plastic wrap. Let them rise for about 30 minutes.
4. Preparing the air fryer
While the bagels are rising, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for about five minutes. This will ensure the proper cooking temperature for your bagels.
5. Cooking the bagels
Once the air fryer is preheated, lightly brush the bagels with water and place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook the bagels for around 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The bagels should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Are air fryer bagels as good as oven-baked bagels?
After going through the process of making air fryer bagels, you may wonder if they taste as good as traditional oven-baked bagels.
Air fryer bagels can indeed provide a similar taste and texture to oven-baked bagels. However, there are slight differences. Oven-baked bagels tend to have a chewier texture, while air fryer bagels are slightly lighter and less dense. Additionally, the exterior of air fryer bagels may be crispier than their oven-baked counterparts.
Ultimately, the preference for air fryer bagels or oven-baked bagels comes down to personal taste. Some may enjoy the convenience and faster cooking time of air fryer bagels, while others may appreciate the traditional baking process and chewier texture of oven-baked bagels.
Enhancing your air fryer bagels
To take your air fryer bagels to the next level, you can experiment with various toppings and fillings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Classic toppings
Brush your bagels with an egg wash and sprinkle them with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or everything bagel seasoning. These classic toppings can add a burst of flavor and texture to your bagels.
2. Sweet fillings
For a sweeter treat, add fillings such as cream cheese, jam, or Nutella to the center of your bagels. You can even sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
3. Savory combinations
Experiment with savory fillings like smoked salmon, cream cheese, and capers for a delicious twist on a traditional bagel. You can also incorporate different types of cheese, herbs, or even bacon for a flavor-packed experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, air fryer bagels are a viable and tasty option for those who prefer a quick and healthier cooking method. With the right ingredients and technique, you can enjoy freshly baked bagels in a fraction of the time it takes to use traditional methods. Whether you prefer the chewiness of oven-baked bagels or the lighter texture of air fryer bagels, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. By exploring various toppings and fillings, you can elevate your air fryer bagels to new heights of delight. So, go ahead and give it a try – you may just find a new favorite way to enjoy your morning bagel!