Air fryers explained
How does an air fryer work?
An air fryer works by circulating hot air around food at high speed. It uses a heating element and a fan to achieve this, imitating the results of deep frying but with much less oil. Because of this technique, your food gets evenly cooked.
Are air fryers healthy?
It depends! They use less oil than other cooking styles, so there's less fat. But it's important to remember that the health benefits eventually boil down to what you're cooking and how you do it.
What can you cook in an air fryer?
This clever appliance can be a multitasker when it comes to cooking. You can air fry, bake, roast, toast, reheat, and grill. Some models can also dehydrate. It's pretty versatile, so get creative and try out your favourites.
Which is the best air fryer for you?
Choosing the perfect air fryer comes down to your usage and purpose. Got a big family? Think big fryer. Need versatility? Go for the multitasker. Let's break down the options to help you pick the right one.
Features to look out for
Multiple cooking zones
Simply put, these air fryers have different compartments, so you can cook two delicious dishes at once - ideal for a complete meal. Some have two layers, while others have both a pot and a removable basket (ideal for chips).
Automatic stirring paddle
Many air fryers have a paddle which gently stirs the food when in use to ensure it's cooked evenly, so there's no need to shake or stir, saving you time.
Dishwasher-safe parts
Don't fancy washing up afterwards? Many air fryers have parts which can go in the dishwasher to make cleaning easy - just check the product description before you buy.
How to use an air fryer?
Here's the step-by-step process:
- Follow the instructions in the manual.
- After pre-heating (if needed), place food in the basket. Space it out well so there's proper air circulation.
- Set the temperature and time as per the recipe.
- Select a pre-set cooking function, if applicable.
- Start the air fryer and let it cook.
- Shake or flip the food halfway through for even cooking.
- Remove the food when it's cooked to your liking. Enjoy!