From the book · 30 Air Fryer Hacks

Why the top burns in the air fryer before the middle is cooked

The heater sits just above your food, so tall or thick things like stuffed peppers, pies and thick chicken pieces brown fast on top while the middle is still cold. Turning the temperature down just makes everything take longer. The book shows a quick shield you make in a minute, how to shape it so it stays put in the fan, and exactly when to put it on.

The fix is in the book

3 more step-by-step sketches
The full method in 2 numbered parts
Exact times, temperatures in °C and °F, and safety notes
A recipe to try it: stuffed peppers

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Common questions

Why does the top burn in the air fryer before the middle is cooked?

The heater sits just above the food. Tall or thick items, like stuffed peppers or pies, are very close to it, so the top browns fast while heat is still travelling to the centre.

Should I lower the temperature if the top is burning?

Lowering it slows the browning, but it also slows the cooking, so the whole thing takes longer and can dry out. Protecting the top for part of the time works better.

Can I put foil in the air fryer?

Yes, in most basket air fryers, if it's held firmly so the fan can't lift it, it doesn't cover the whole base and it stays well away from the heater. Check your manual first.