How to Season a Cosori Air Fryer? (The COMPLETE Guide!)

Table of contents

Ready to learn how to season a Cosori air fryer? We’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide. We’ll walk you through the process of seasoning your air fryer, and we’ll give you tips and tricks along the way.

If you’re looking for the best way to season your Cosori air fryer, this is it!

Do you need to season a Cosori air fryer?

While it is not necessary to season a Cosori air fryer, some people choose to do so for added benefits. Seasoning can help create a non-stick surface on the basket and prevent food from sticking.

Seasoning can provide an extra layer of protection for the air fryer. The type of oil used during seasoning can also contribute to the taste of the food. Ultimately, the decision to season the air fryer is a personal preference.

How to season your Cosori air fryer?

Step 1: You will need cooking oil and a paper towel

It’s important to have your oil and paper towel ready before you begin seasoning your Cosori air fryer. To avoid burning your oil when preheating your air fryer, you should choose a high-heat-resistant kind.

If you have a nut allergy, canola oil is an excellent replacement, and peanut oil is OK if you don’t. Most people who like to air-fry choose refined coconut oil because it has a milder flavor.

Step 2: Clean and dry your air fryer basket

The next thing to do is to thoroughly clean the basket of your air fryer. Food residue and any oil or lubricants used in production should be cleaned off before use.

The basket and all other cooking accessories, if any, should be washed thoroughly. Before seasoning the basket with oil, make sure it is totally dry since any excess moisture will prevent the oil from sticking to the surface.

Step 3: Preheat the basket to 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes

The next step is to heat the basket to 400 degrees for 5 minutes. By doing so, the deeper pores will open and it will expand ever-so-slightly, allowing oil to penetrate deeper, bonding tightly to the metal surface.

Step 4: Spread oil all over the Cosori air fryer basket

The next step is to spread a thin coating of oil evenly over the air fryer basket using a paper towel. Fold up the paper towel a few times and dab it into the oil. Then, brush it across every inch (top and bottom) of the heat-exposed parts of the basket.

Most Cosori models will have their own crisping tray that goes into the basket and is where the food sits. Be sure to oil that tray up as well. It is recommended that you use oven mitts or safety gloves to avoid burning your hands on the hot air fryer basket.

Step 5: Put the basket back into the air fryer and cook it for another 3 minutes

Return the basket to the air fryer and keep the temperature at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for an additional 3 minutes.

This will help the oil get into the air fryer, making the oil harden and stick to the surface of the basket.

Step 6: Repeat the process 3 to 4 more times

If one layer is sufficient, no more layers are required. However, I recommend you repeat the process more than once to add more protection to your basket. If you want your air fryer to be very non-stick and your coating to be thick enough to handle most meals, you can repeat the process 3 to 5 times more.

This will help build up the layers of seasoning and will help guarantee that the air fryer basket will be fully resistant to sticks and to anything soaking into it.

Does the Cosori air fryer come with a non-stick?

Yes, the majority of Cosori air fryers come with a non-stick coating on the basket. This coating makes it easier to remove food from the basket after frying. However, it is important to note that this non-stick coating may wear out over time and can be damaged if incorrect tools are used. Adding your own spices to the food can further reduce the likelihood of sticking and minimize grime buildup in the air fryer.

What is the non-stick coating made of in a Cosori air fryer?

The non-stick coating used in the basket of a Cosori air fryer is typically made of PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), commonly known as Teflon. PTFE is a popular choice for non-stick coatings in air fryer baskets and is used in many other cooking utensils as well.

While PTFE is commonly used, it is worth mentioning that there are alternatives available, such as ceramic coatings, that do not contain PTFE. Some concerns have been raised about the potential health risks associated with ingesting Teflon.

Considering these concerns, seasoning your air fryer and creating a barrier between your food and the Teflon coating could be a proactive step towards maintaining your health. It is always advisable to use any kitchen appliance carefully and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Advantages of seasoning your Cosori air fryer

Seasoning the Cosori air fryer’s basket helps facilitate the removal of food, especially sticky items like cheese, making cleanup easier. When you season the basket, you apply a thin layer of oil that acts as a barrier between the food and the basket’s surface. This barrier helps prevent the food from sticking to the basket, allowing for easier removal and reducing the amount of residue left behind.
Applying multiple layers of seasoning enhances the non-stick properties of the basket, reducing the chances of food sticking to it. Each layer of seasoning adds to the non-stick coating on the basket, making it more effective in preventing food from sticking. By applying three or four coats of seasoning, you create a stronger and more durable non-stick surface that can withstand high temperatures and repeated use.
Seasoning helps preserve the factory-applied non-stick coating on the air fryer, preventing it from peeling off over time. The non-stick coating on the Cosori air fryer’s basket can wear off with regular use and cleaning. However, by seasoning the basket, you create an additional protective layer that helps prolong the life of the factory-applied coating. This can prevent peeling and ensure that the non-stick properties of the basket remain intact for longer.
Adding a layer of seasoning on top of the non-stick coating can make it safer to consume in case of accidental ingestion: While the non-stick coatings on air fryer baskets are generally considered safe for cooking, concerns have been raised about the potential health risks associated with ingesting Teflon. By seasoning the basket and adding a layer of oil on top of the coating, you create a barrier that reduces the likelihood of the coating coming off and being accidentally consumed.
Seasoning the basket creates a protective barrier, reducing the likelihood of rust, corrosion, and stains, thus helping to maintain a clean and flawless basket in the long run: The seasoning process creates a thin layer of oil that acts as a protective barrier against moisture and air. This helps prevent rust and corrosion from developing on the surface of the basket. Additionally, by seasoning the basket regularly, you can minimize stains and discoloration caused by certain foods, keeping the basket looking clean and in good condition over time.

Disadvantages of seasoning your Cosori air fryer

One of the major disadvantages of seasoning your Cosori air fryer is the additional effort and maintenance required: Seasoning the air fryer involves applying multiple coats of oil and ensuring that it is properly maintained. If you accidentally scrape off the seasoning with a fork or use the air fryer at high temperatures, you will need to reapply several coats of seasoning, which can be time-consuming and require extra effort.
Seasoning the air fryer needs to be done periodically: Over time, the seasoning on the air fryer may wear off or become less effective. It is recommended to reapply seasoning every few months to maintain its benefits. Additionally, using harsh chemicals or rough sponges during cleaning can unintentionally remove the oil layer, necessitating the need for reseasoning.
Avoid using the dishwasher: Seasoning is not dishwasher-safe, and subjecting the air fryer basket to a full dishwasher cycle can cause the seasoning to deteriorate. Hand washing with mild soaps and detergents is recommended to preserve the seasoning.
Be cautious of temperature: Using the air fryer at temperatures exceeding 450 degrees Fahrenheit can cause oils to reach their smoke point. This can result in the oil breaking down and releasing smoke, affecting the quality of the seasoning. It is advisable to choose oils with high smoke points to avoid this issue.
Consider using refined coconut oil: If you prefer using coconut oil for seasoning, it is recommended to use refined coconut oil rather than regular coconut oil. Refined coconut oil has a higher smoke point of around 400 degrees Fahrenheit, making it more suitable for air frying at higher temperatures.

What if you don’t season your Cosori air fryer?

If you don’t season your food first, there is a good chance that it will stick to the air fryer basket. It will ruin the flavor, make the food soggy instead of crispy, and may even harm your air fryer if you try to scrape and scrub off the stuck-on food.

When an air fryer has not been seasoned, cleaning may be more of a hassle, and you may even have to deal with a broken basket that makes it difficult to prepare food. Your Cosori air fryer could get damaged and scratched if it hasn’t been used before. The same thing could happen if you hit the sides of the basket with a metal spoon.

Extreme heat from an air fryer could wear away the paint on your basket, which would make the basket’s natural non-stick coating less effective. Rust and corrosion can set in after the protective film is damaged, and even the harsh chemicals and detergents we use every day can do that. Avoid using abrasive cleaners on a used air fryer’s basket when cleaning it.

The good news is that you won’t have to resort to extreme measures to get rid of any leftovers from a previous meal as long as you season it properly. It ought to be easy to wipe away any traces of food.

If you’re worried about Teflon leaching into your food, a seasoning coating may prevent it from coming into contact with your food at all.

How often should you season your Cosori air fryer?

You should only re-season the basket with a few layers 2 or 3 times a year if you use your Cosori air fryer regularly.

But be sure to give your basket a gentle and thorough cleaning after each use. A multilayer cover for the basket of your Cosori air fryer is stronger and will last longer. In my experience, you will need to re-season your air fryer several times a year if you are like me and use it on a daily basis.

To get the most out of your seasoning, I suggest seasoning your basket three or four times in succession. I recommend seasoning your basket three or four times in a row to get the most out of your seasoning.

Since I use my air fryer daily—sometimes twice a day—I find it necessary to season it as often as every two months.

When should you re-season your Cosori air fryer?

You remove your seasoned layer inadvertently
The last time you seasoned your basket was over six months ago
You first take your air fryer out of the box
Inadvertently, you put your air fryer in the dishwasher
You ruined your meal by overheating the air fryer
Using temperatures above 450 degrees Fahrenheit

If you scratch the surface of the layer on your Cosori air fryer basket, you might want to re-season it. Occasionally, both before and after cooking, you should give the inside of your basket a good, long look.

It could be that you’re pressing down too hard on the sponge, that your utensils are scraping against it, or that the oven’s temperature is too high. Optimal seasoning results in a glossy finish. It should be a shade or two of a darker brown or black.

Re-seasoning your air fryer is necessary if you notice any dull or rough spots on the basket’s surface. Those spots probably don’t have a seasoned layer.

Do you still need oil after seasoning a Cosori air fryer?

After seasoning a Cosori air fryer, the need for additional oil may be reduced when it comes to preventing food from sticking. The seasoning process creates a non-stick surface on the air fryer basket, making it easier to remove food without the need for excessive oil. However, using some oil in your air fryer meals can still have its benefits.

While oil helps prevent food from sticking, it can also enhance the flavor and texture of your dishes. When heated, oil undergoes the Maillard reaction, which is responsible for browning and developing a crispy exterior on foods. This reaction adds depth of flavor and contributes to the desirable texture that many enjoy in fried or air-fried dishes.

So while you may not need to use as much oil as you would without a seasoned air fryer basket, adding a small amount can still improve the taste and texture of your meals. Experimenting with different oils, such as olive oil, avocado oil, or even flavored oils, can further enhance the flavors of your dishes. Just remember to use oil in moderation to maintain a balanced and healthy approach to cooking.

What kind of oil should you use to season your Cosori air fryer?

1. Refined coconut oil

Refined coconut oil is ideal for use in the Cosori air fryer. This type of coconut oil can be used at much higher temperatures than regular coconut oil, which has a smoke point of only about 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Refined coconut oil can tolerate high temperatures (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit) without catching fire. As an added bonus, coconut oil has no discernible flavor and won’t change the way your meal tastes.

Coconut oil is also the most popular oil to use for greasing and seasoning your air fryer basket.

2. Grapeseed oil

We recommend using grapeseed oil as a healthy alternative to oil. Grapeseed oil contains vitamin E and is naturally high in antioxidants. It’s also a light oil with no taste or smell, so it won’t change the way your food tastes.

Grapeseed oil has a smoke point of up to 420 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Extra virgin olive oil

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is one of the healthiest oils you can use to season your Cosori air fryer. This oil is excellent for your heart because of the high concentration of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats it contains.

Olive oil, especially extra virgin olive oil, contains antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. The only drawback is that extra virgin olive oil has a smoke point of about 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s a bit trickier when dealing with cooking temperatures in your Cosori air fryer.

4. Vegetable oil

Vegetable oil is ideal for flavoring your Cosori air fryer.

Vegetable oil is safer than other oils since its smoke point is higher than average (about 400 degrees Fahrenheit). Vegetable oil is a neutral oil and won’t change the taste of your dish in any way. It’s standard oil that doesn’t break the bank. Plus, it’s also widely available everywhere!

5. Canola oil

Canola oil has a high smoke point (between 375 and 450 degrees Fahrenheit), which means it can withstand high temperatures without burning. It’s obviously one of the oils in this list with the highest smoke point. This makes it ideal for seasoning your air fryer.

Canola oil is also a healthy option, as it is low in saturated fat and high in monounsaturated fat.

Cleaning a seasoned Cosori air fryer

After you have seasoned your air fryer, it is important to learn how to properly clean it so that you do not remove the seasoning when you are cleaning it.

For the most part, if you really did clean it properly, you are not going to have to do a ton of scrubbing to remove anything from the basket.

It is easy enough to remove the food from the basket if you have it seasoned well, so, at the most, you should be able to clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.

Can you put a seasoned Cosori air fryer in the dishwasher?

Once you’ve seasoned your air fryer basket, the dishwasher isn’t the best place to clean it. It is not advised that you put your air fryer basket in the dishwasher at all. Despite the manufacturer’s assurances that you can clean the various components of your Cosori air fryer in the dishwasher, doing so will significantly reduce the appliance’s lifespan.

The chemicals from the detergent, the high heat, the extremely hot water, and the jets will severely damage a well-used dishwasher basket, not to mention the seasoning layer on top of it.

Keep in mind that the dishwasher is also home to a number of other serving pieces and kitchen tools. You risk having your basket damaged if any of these other parts crash into it.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to wipe the slate clean and begin seasoning again, this approach could prove useful. Getting rid of your seasoning is quick and easy. A dishwasher is an excellent choice if you want to get rid of the seasoning you’ve already applied and maybe apply it again.

If you just want to clean it so you can reuse it, then hand washing is the way to go. Even though it may be tempting to just toss it in the dishwasher, do so only if you don’t mind ruining the Teflon or ceramic coating.

Is it too late to season your Cosori air fryer?

If you didn’t season your Cosori air fryer before your first use, you can still season it now and enjoy all the benefits of seasoning your Cosori air fryer.

In fact, it’s never too late unless your Cosori’s basket is so worn that the paint inside has already begun to chip and peel off.

One thing you should do is to make sure you thoroughly clean and remove any debris, including rust and corrosion, that might have ended up on the surface of your air fryer basket. A combination of natural ingredients, such as baking soda, lemon juice, and vinegar, can be effective against rust and corrosion on your air fryer basket.

Your Cosori air fryer’s basket already has a manufactured non-stick coating, and using these natural ingredients will help protect it from corrosion. Be sure the basket of your Cosori air fryer is totally dry before you try seasoning it for the first time.

When it comes to peeling of the paint or non-stick coating, the only solution may be to apply a strong layer of seasoning to your basket. However, you’ll have to determine whether or not how much damage or how much peeling is going on. If the non-stick coating on your basket is pretty much flaking off, then it might be beyond seasoning and beyond repair.

To prepare your Cosori air fryer for use, rub some cooking oil inside the basket. Then, run the air fryer on its highest setting for about 30 minutes.

Make sure the basket is completely cooled down before using it. Seasoning your Cosori air fryer is easy and only takes a few minutes.

It’s worth it to do this step so that you can enjoy all the deliciousness that comes with air frying!

Using parchment paper after seasoning your Cosori air fryer

Using parchment paper in your Cosori air fryer can indeed provide an additional layer of assurance to prevent food from sticking. However, if you have properly seasoned your air fryer, sticking should not be a major concern, and you can cook without the need for parchment paper. The seasoning process creates a non-stick surface on the basket, ensuring that food releases easily during cooking.

If you prefer to use parchment paper for convenience or specific recipes, it is still compatible with a seasoned air fryer. Just ensure that the parchment paper does not interfere with the air circulation inside the fryer and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe usage.

Ultimately, the decision to use parchment paper after seasoning your Cosori air fryer is a personal preference. The seasoning process is designed to minimize sticking, providing you with the freedom to cook in your air fryer with ease and without the need for additional measures like parchment paper.

Safety precautions when seasoning your Cosori air fryer

Handle with care: The air fryer basket can become very hot during the seasoning process. It is crucial to use gloves or a pot holder to protect your hands from burns. Both the hot oil and the metal can pose a burn risk, so take the necessary precautions to handle the basket safely.
Be cautious of oil smoke: Different oils have different smoke points, which is the temperature at which they start to produce smoke. If you use an oil with a low smoke point during seasoning, it may lead to the generation of smoke. Inhaling this smoke can be harmful to your health, and it may also trigger smoke detectors. To avoid this, choose oils with higher smoke points for seasoning and ensure proper ventilation in the area.
Stay close and attentive: Throughout the seasoning process, it is important to stay close to the air fryer and keep an eye on it. This allows you to monitor any potential issues and take immediate action if needed. By staying attentive, you can ensure that the seasoning process goes smoothly and minimize any risks.

How seasoning your Cosori air fryer affects your food

When it comes to how seasoning your Cosori air fryer affects your food, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Debate on oil types: There is some debate among individuals regarding how different types of oil used for seasoning can impact the outcome of the meal. Some argue that certain oils, like olive oil or coconut oil, can add a subtle flavor to the food, while others believe that the choice of oil does not significantly affect the final taste.
Minimal alteration of flavor and texture: Generally, most people agree that air frying, including when using a seasoned air fryer, does not significantly alter the flavor or texture of the food. When the seasoning is properly applied and baked onto the air fryer basket, it becomes sealed and does not rub off easily onto the food during cooking.
Enhanced non-stick properties: The primary effect of seasoning your air fryer is the development of a non-stick surface on the basket. This non-stick coating helps prevent food from sticking and allows for easier removal without altering the taste or texture of the food.

The best temperature to season your Cosori air fryer

Most people season their Cosori air fryer basket at a temperature between 375 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The consensus among professionals seems to settle on a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit as the norm.

Nonetheless, things aren’t always that straightforward. Keep in mind that the type of oil you’re using will have a significant impact on the ideal temperature limits for your seasoning. If you’re using refined coconut oil, a temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit should be fine for seasoning your air fryer.

However, oils like standard coconut oil wouldn’t be able to withstand temperatures of 400 degrees Fahrenheit for very long since their smoke point is closer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In fact, it’s refined coconut oil that has a smoke point of 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so use that instead.

If your oil starts to burn, ignoring these smoke points could spell disaster. For best results, reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and add a few minutes to the cooking time. The goal is to coat the inside of the Cosori air fryer basket with a thin layer of oil that is both waxy and slippery. And the only way to do something like this is to use high heat.

If the oil you’re using, however, isn’t able to withstand temperatures above 350 degrees Fahrenheit, then you should cook it at that temperature for an additional 2 minutes.

How long should you leave your Cosori air fryer on to season it?

The first thing you’ll have to do is make sure you pre-heat your Cosori air fryer basket before spreading oil all over it. Generally speaking, you’ll want to set it at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes. Once your Cosori air fryer basket is at temperature and ready for seasoning, you’ll want to leave it in the air fryer for about 3 minutes.

It’s important to think about the oil’s smoke point whenever you’re cooking. As soon as the first three minutes are up, take the basket out of the air fryer, coat the inside and outside with oil again, and put it back in the machine to cook a second layer.

I suggest doing this up to four times to make a thick, non-stick layer on the outside of the Cosori air fryer basket.

Other ways to prevent food from sticking to the Cosori air fryer

Aluminum foil

Aluminum foil is an option, but it might not be the best. Aluminum foil is going to get hot in the air fryer, which means it is going to change the temperature while the food is cooking. This also means that if you are wrapping your food in foil or have lined the basket with foil, your food may burn.

Keep in mind that a sheet of aluminum foil can block airflow, which could make the food you’re cooking less crispy. Air fryers depend heavily on airflow to cook food evenly and give it a crispy outside. So, you can use foil, but be careful where you place it.

Parchment paper

You can also use parchment paper. This is a great option because it won’t significantly alter the airflow in the air fryer or the temperature at which the food cooks.

You can safely use parchment paper if you limit its use to the area directly under your food and do not cover the entire floor of the plate. You can cut the parchment to fit the basket or just to fit under the food.

Disposable paper liners

One of the best options for your air fryer is to use paper liners that are designed to work with the air fryer. These liners are going to be designed with the air fryer in mind and are going to be great if you want a liner that is easy to use and that is not going to damage the air fryer.

Paper liners, which can be thrown away after use, are gaining favor among people who use air fryers. The real benefit here is that it makes cleaning even easier, and it’s highly cost-effective. In conjunction with a well-seasoned basket, this will almost guarantee no food gets stuck to your air fryer.

Silicone baking mat

If you are environmentally conscious, you can use a reusable silicone baking mat instead. Again, they aren’t ideal because they reduce ventilation. If a mat is used, it should be as small as possible so as not to restrict the flow of air to the food. Silicone baking mats are advantageous because they can withstand high temperatures without deforming.

Because the material is both sturdy and nonstick, it can be cleaned easily either by hand or in the dishwasher. It is durable enough to be used repeatedly without incurring the cost of a replacement until it is damaged.

Spray oil

Spray oil is another option, but it does have the potential to damage the coating that is already on your air fryer. Lecithin is an ingredient in cooking sprays like PAM. Despite the fact that lecithin is generally safe for use with cookware, it has the undesirable property of sticking to a nonstick coating.

Because it adheres so strongly, it accumulates and becomes difficult to remove. Damage to the cooking surface and increased food sticking can occur over time. For the best results, invest in an oil mister, which is essentially a bottle sprayer designed specifically for oils. You can add in your own oil and spray as you please.

If you want to keep the coating that the air fryer came with, you might want to avoid using spray oil. If you season it properly, you can avoid using any sort of oil or any other non-stick items to keep food from sticking.

Can you preheat a seasoned Cosori air fryer?

You can preheat a Cosori air fryer that has seasoning on it. The seasoning is going to be baked on and is going to be semi-permanent. Seasoning rarely rubs off unless you actively try to remove it.

This seasoning will prevent food from sticking to the air fryer, making it simple to use. If you’ve followed the instructions carefully, you shouldn’t have to worry too much. The seasoned layer will remain on the Cosori as long as it is not heated to temperatures higher than 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Seasoning your basket again may be necessary if you haven’t done so thoroughly or if you’ve only applied a very thin layer. All things considered, it should work out fine.

What temperature is too hot for a seasoned Cosori air fryer?

The maximum temperature at which your Cosori air fryer can cook is highly dependent on the type of oil used to season the basket. Therefore, for most common cooking oils, the highest temperature your Cosori air fryer should be set to is between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

It’s probably fine to go above 450 degrees Fahrenheit a few times, but doing so frequently may necessitate more frequent re-seasoning of the basket. It’s true that the seasoning on the surface of your air fryer is more tolerant of higher temperatures, but it may not last long under heat that surpasses its designated smoke point.

Keep in mind that the smoke point of an oil is the point at which its quality begins to change and it begins to smoke. The chemical bonds in the oil begin to break down at this temperature, causing unpleasant odors to permeate the kitchen.

If the oil you use to season your basket’s surface burns off while you’re cooking, your efforts will have been for naught. On top of that, you can expect an unpleasant odor in the kitchen for quite some time. You don’t want your oil to vaporize and leave the surface of your Cosori air fryer basket. Before reaching the smoke point of your oil, you want it to dry and adhere to the basket’s surface.

I suggest that you keep the temperature just below the smoke point to make sure that your oil polymerizes and hardens completely on the surface.

Other interesting articles: