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Air Fryer Yorkshire Pudding: The Perfect British Classic Made Easy

Yorkshire pudding is a beloved staple of British cuisine, traditionally served alongside roast beef and gravy. Its origins can be traced back to the 18th century, where it was created as an economical dish to fill hungry bellies while making the most of the leftover roast drippings. Typically, Yorkshire pudding is baked in a hot oven in a deep tin, but with the advent of modern kitchen gadgets, the air fryer has emerged as a game-changer in achieving this fluffy delight with less hassle and shorter cooking times.

The Benefits of Air Frying Yorkshire Puddings

Using an air fryer to cook Yorkshire puddings has several advantages:

1. Speed: Air fryers cook food faster than conventional ovens, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
2. Crispiness: The circulating hot air in the air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and airy.
3. Less Oil: Air frying typically requires less oil than traditional frying methods, making it a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
4. Easy Cleanup: With fewer dishes and mess to deal with, air frying makes for a more straightforward cooking experience.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Yorkshire Pudding

To make Yorkshire pudding in an air fryer, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 120g plain flour
• 3 large eggs
• 150ml milk
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or beef drippings, if available)

Instructions for Preparing Air Fryer Yorkshire Puddings

1. Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the centre and crack in the eggs. Gradually whisk in the milk until you have a smooth batter. Allow the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes; this helps to create a lighter Yorkshire pudding.

2. Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial, as a hot air fryer ensures that your puddings rise beautifully.

3. Prepare your cooking tins: Pour a small amount of vegetable oil or drippings into each compartment of your Yorkshire pudding tray (or a muffin tin if you don’t have one) — enough to coat the bottoms. Place the tray in the air fryer for about 5 minutes to heat the oil until it’s shimmering hot.

4. Pour in the batter: Carefully remove the hot tray from the air fryer (taking care as the oil will be hot), and quickly pour the batter into each compartment, filling them about halfway.

5. Cook the Yorkshire puddings: Return the tray to the air fryer and cook for around 12-15 minutes, or until the puddings have puffed up and turned golden brown. Avoid opening the air fryer during cooking, as the rush of cold air can prevent the puddings from rising properly.

6. Serve: Once cooked, remove the tray from the air fryer and serve your Yorkshire puddings immediately. They can be enjoyed as part of a classic roast dinner or even as a delightful side with soups and stews.

Tips for Perfect Yorkshire Puddings

• Resting the batter: Allowing your batter to rest is key. It gives the flour time to absorb the liquid, leading to a lighter texture.
• Hot oil: Ensuring the oil is sizzling hot before adding your batter is vital for achieving that signature rise and crispy exterior.
• Don’t overcrowd: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the tray, which can affect the cooking process.

Conclusion

Air fryer Yorkshire puddings are a fantastic way to create a classic British dish with minimal fuss and maximum flavour. Their fluffy texture, combined with a crispy exterior, makes them a perfect companion for any roast dinner or as a tasty treat on their own. So, dust off your air fryer, whip up some batter, and enjoy this delightful culinary tradition with ease!