One of the most popular kitchen appliances of recent years is the air fryer, which has seen a massive boost in sales during the current cost of living crisis. This is mainly due to the low cost of running the appliance, especially when compared to that of a standard oven.

If you have not yet discovered the joys and benefits of having an air fryer in your home, then this is the guide for you. We have put together 4 of the main features that you should look for when you decide to invest in an air fryer, which will help you to make the most of the modern way of cooking, as well as ensuring that everything tastes absolutely delicious. 

Controls

You will find that some air fryers have dial controls and others have a digital display where you can be more precise with your instructions. Some will have pre-set programmes too, which will allow you to pick your cooking time at the push of a button. Depending on how you plan to use your air fryer will determine which type of control you use. If you are using it quite simply for easy meals, then a dial or a pre-set programmed control is sure to suit you. If you are a more experienced or experimental cook, then you may wish to tailor the cooking time more precisely, in which case a digital display may be preferable.

Number of drawers

Consider the size of your family and needs when choosing your air fryer, as you will be able to buy one with either one drawer or two. Two drawers will allow you to cook different parts of a meal at the same time, or different meals for different people. You will often be able to set each drawer to different temperatures as well, so that you can cook each side to perfection. 

Rotating baskets and stirrers

When cooking in an air fryer, just as when you cook in a standard oven, you may need to open it at various points throughout the process to shake the basket or rotate the food to ensure that it cooks evenly. If you are someone who would like to simply leave the air fryer to do its thing and not have to go back to it until it’s finished, you can purchase designs that have rotating baskets and even which have a paddle stirrer inside which can move the food around. These air fryers will be much more expensive however, so you will need to weigh up if it will be worth it to you and your lifestyle. 

Easy to clean non-stick coating

Many air fryers will be designed with a non-stick coating that will mean it is easier to clean. Most air fryer parts will fit into a sink and can be washed simply with warm water and washing up liquid. Some parts may also be suitable for the dishwasher, but check your instructions first. If you keep your air fryer clean, it will ensure that each meal continues to taste great and help your appliance to last for longer.

Cooking functions

Most air fryers offer more than one cooking function to make it more versatile for different styles of food preparation. If you enjoy a variety of recipes then these extra options will be great for you. These can include:

  • Air frying
  • Roasting
  • Grilling
  • Baking
  • Steaming
  • Slow cook
  • Pressure cook
  • Sear
  • Dehydrate

Browse our wide range of wonderfully efficient air fryers and revolutionise your cooking experience.

Sources

https://glutenfreecuppatea.co.uk/2022/07/18/air-fryer-buyers-guide/

https://www.choice.com.au/home-and-living/kitchen/benchtop-cooking/buying-guides/air-fryers