At its core, an air fryer is essentially a compact convection oven. It uses rapid air circulation technology to cook food quickly and evenly, creating that desirable crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. An air fryer operates by using a heating element located near the top of the appliance to generate heat, while a powerful fan circulates this hot air around the food at high speed. The food is placed in a perforated basket, allowing the hot air to reach it from all angles. This process creates a crispy layer on the outside of the food, mimicking the texture of deep-frying but with significantly less oil.

1. Healthier Cooking

One of the main attractions of air fryers is their ability to create crispy, ‘fried-like’ food with minimal oil. This means you can enjoy your favourite crispy treats with up to 75% less fat compared to traditional frying methods2. For those watching their calorie intake or trying to make healthier food choices, an air fryer can be a game-changer.

2. Time-Saving

Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens. Most dishes can be prepared in 15-20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or quick snacks1.

3. Energy Efficiency

Due to their compact size and rapid cooking times, air fryers can be more energy-efficient than traditional ovens, potentially helping to reduce your energy bills3.

4. Versatility

Don’t let the name fool you – air fryers can do much more than just ‘fry’. They’re excellent for roasting vegetables, baking cakes, grilling meats, and even reheating leftovers. Some models even come with additional functions like dehydrating or rotisserie cooking.

5. Easy to Clean

Most air fryer baskets and accessories are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. The enclosed cooking area also means less oil splatter around your kitchen.

6. Perfect for Small Spaces

If you’re living in a flat with a small kitchen or don’t have access to a full-sized oven, an air fryer can be an excellent alternative for cooking a wide variety of dishes.

There are several types of air fryers available on the market:

• Basket-Style Air Fryers: These are the most common type. Food is placed in a pull-out basket for cooking.
• Oven-Style Air Fryers: These look like mini ovens and often have multiple racks for cooking different foods simultaneously.
• Paddle-Type Air Fryers: These have a self-stirring paddle that moves the food around during cooking, ensuring even browning.
• Air Fryer Lids: These are lids that can turn your existing pressure cooker or multi-cooker into an air fryer.

When shopping for an air fryer, consider these top brands that stand out for their quality and performance:

Ninja Air Fryers

Ninja is renowned for its high-quality, multi-functional air fryers that deliver excellent performance. With features like multiple cooking functions and easy-to-use controls, Ninja air fryers are perfect for anyone looking to create delicious meals quickly.

Philips Air Fryers

As pioneers in air fryer technology, Philips offers a range of reliable models that are designed to make healthy cooking effortless. Their air fryers utilize Rapid Air Technology, which circulates hot air to cook food evenly while reducing fat content by up to 90%. With smart features and a variety of sizes, Philips air fryers are ideal for families and individuals alike.

Tefal Air Fryers

Tefal produces affordable air fryers that don’t compromise on cooking results. Their models come equipped with user-friendly features and are perfect for those who want to enjoy crispy, healthy meals without breaking the bank.

Tower Air Fryers

Tower offers a diverse selection of air fryers at various price points, including some stylish retro designs that add flair to your kitchen. Known for their reliability and performance, Tower air fryers make it easy to whip up tasty dishes in no time.

Corosi Air Fryers

Corosi is gaining popularity for its budget-friendly air fryers that deliver impressive results. With a focus on user-friendly designs and efficient cooking capabilities, Corosi air fryers are perfect for those new to air frying or anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen appliances.

Each of these brands brings something unique to the table, ensuring you can find the perfect air fryer to suit your cooking needs and style. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, investing in a quality air fryer can elevate your cooking experience!

Air fryers are widely available in the UK & Ireland. Here are some popular retailers:

Amazon: Offers a vast selection of air fryers with competitive prices and quick delivery.

Argos: Stocks a good range of air fryers from various brands, with the option for same-day collection.

Currys: Provides a wide selection of air fryers, often with good deals and discounts.

John Lewis: Offers a curated selection of high-quality air fryers, often with extended warranties.

Lakeland: Known for kitchen gadgets, they stock a variety of air fryers and often have exclusive models.

When selecting an air fryer, consider the following factors:

• Capacity: Think about how many people you’ll typically be cooking for. Air fryers range from about 1.5 to 5.5 litres or more.
• Footprint: Ensure you have enough counter space for the air fryer you choose.
• Features: Some air fryers come with preset programs, digital displays, or additional cooking functions. Decide which features are important to you.
• Ease of cleaning: Look for models with dishwasher-safe parts for easy cleanup.
• Price: Air fryers range from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Set a budget based on your needs and usage

Once you’ve got your air fryer, here are some tips to get you started:

• Read the manual: Each air fryer model is slightly different, so familiarise yourself with your specific appliance.
• Preheat: While not always necessary, preheating can help achieve better results, especially for foods that need a crispy exterior.
• Don’t overcrowd: Leave space between food items to allow for proper air circulation.
• Shake or flip: For even cooking, shake the basket or flip food halfway through cooking.
• Use a light coating of oil: While air fryers require less oil, a light spray or brush of oil can enhance crispiness.
• Experiment: Try different recipes and cooking times to find what works best for your favourite dishes.

To keep your air fryer in top condition:

• Clean after each use to prevent buildup of food residue.
• Wash removable parts in warm, soapy water or in the dishwasher if safe to do so.
• Wipe the interior and exterior with a damp cloth regularly.
• Check and clean the heating element periodically.
• Replace any worn or damaged parts promptly.

Let’s clear up some common misconceptions about air fryers:

Myth: Air fryers can cook everything.

Reality: While versatile, air fryers aren’t suitable for foods with wet batter or very light items that might fly around.

Myth: Air fryers don’t use any oil.

Reality: While they use much less oil than deep frying, a small amount of oil can enhance crispiness and flavour.

Myth: Air fryers are just for unhealthy foods.

Reality: Air fryers are great for cooking a wide variety of healthy foods, including vegetables and lean proteins.

Myth: Air fryers are difficult to clean.

Reality: Most air fryers have dishwasher-safe parts, making them easier to clean than many other cooking appliances.

Myth: Air fryers are expensive to run.

Reality: Air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than full-sized ovens, potentially saving on energy costs.

An air fryer can be a fantastic addition to many kitchens, offering a healthier way to enjoy crispy foods, saving time on meal preparation, and providing versatility in cooking methods. They’re particularly useful for small households, those looking to eat healthier, or anyone who wants to simplify their cooking process.

However, like any appliance, it’s important to consider your specific needs and cooking habits. If you frequently cook for large groups or rarely eat foods that benefit from air frying, it might not be the best investment for you. Ultimately, for many home cooks, an air fryer can be a game-changer, opening up new culinary possibilities and making it easier to prepare delicious, healthier meals. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick dinner solutions, a health-conscious foodie, or simply someone who loves kitchen gadgets, an air fryer might just become your new favourite appliance.

So why not give it a try? With the wide range of models available and the multitude of recipes to explore, you might find that an air fryer is exactly what your kitchen has been missing. Happy air frying 🙂