Convenient, energy-saving and arguably one of the most popular kitchen appliances of recent years, Nikki Birrell looks at whether air fryers are worth the investment. Air fryers are innovative kitchen appliances that have gained popularity in recent years because of their ability to fry food with little to no oil. They work by circulating hot air around the food at high speeds, creating a crispy outer layer similar to traditional frying methods but with significantly less oil.
Here’s everything you need to know before you buy. Why get an air fryer? Healthier cooking: Air fryers offer a healthier alternative to deep frying as they require minimal oil, typically only a tablespoon or less depending on the recipe. This can significantly reduce the calorie and fat content of fried foods.
Versatility: Contrary to the name, you’re not limited to frying; they can also bake, grill, and roast a variety of foods including vegetables, meats, and even desserts. Some models come with additional accessories such as baking pans and skewers to expand their cooking capabilities. Convenience: Air fryers are easy to use and require minimal preheating time compared to conventional ovens.
They also cook food faster because of the circulating hot air, making them ideal for quick meals or snacks. Easy clean-up: Most air fryer baskets and trays are non-stick, which makes them easy to clean with just soap and water or in some cases, they are dishwasher safe. This eliminates the hassle of dealing w.