How to Use an Air Fryer
Most people in Pakistan buy an air fryer without ever having used one. These steps work for every basket air fryer, from Philips and Westpoint to Dawlance and Haier.
Updated 11 November 2026
First use
- Remove all stickers, plastic and paper from inside the basket.
- Wash the basket and tray with warm soapy water and dry them.
- Place the fryer on a flat counter with 10 to 15 cm of space behind and above it.
- Run it empty at 200 °C for about 10 minutes. A little smell the first time is normal.
Everyday cooking
- Preheat for 3 to 5 minutes if your manual says so (some models need none).
- Put food in one layer. Do not fill the basket to the top.
- Brush or spray a little oil on fresh food. Frozen snacks need none.
- Set the temperature and time, or choose a preset.
- Pull out the basket and shake or turn the food halfway.
- Check it is done; add 2 to 3 minutes if needed.
What temperature to use
- Frozen fries and nuggets: 200 °C
- Chicken pieces and tikka: 180 to 190 °C
- Fish: 200 °C
- Cake: 160 °C in a tin
- Reheating: 160 to 180 °C for 3 to 5 minutes
More in our Pakistani air fryer recipes.
What not to do
- Do not pour water or oil into the drawer
- Do not use metal spoons on the non-stick basket
- Do not put loose paper in during preheat; the fan can lift it onto the heater
- Do not block the air outlet at the back
Brand-specific tips
Westpoint, Dawlance, Haier and Black+Decker basket fryers all work the same way; the only difference is dial or touch controls. Ovens like the Westpoint WF-5259 25 Litre Air Fryer Oven use racks instead of a basket, so turn the food rather than shaking it.
How much oil to put in an air fryer
Put the oil on the food, never in the bottom of the pot. Fresh potatoes and vegetables need about 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon for a full batch. Raw chicken and kababs need only a light brush. Frozen fries, nuggets and samosas are already part-fried and need none. A pump spray bottle filled with your own cooking oil is the easiest way to coat evenly.
Which dishes and tins can go in an air fryer?
Oven-safe metal tins, silicone moulds, and oven-safe glass or ceramic dishes can all go in, as long as there is space around them for air. Never use plastic. Air fryer paper liners are fine if food sits on top of them. For full baking steps, see air fryer baking, and for times by food, the air fryer cooking times chart.
