Is an Air Fryer Worth It?

For years, oil-free fries were culinary unicorns—crispy, golden, and guilt-free. Thanks to air fryers, that dream is now a reality. These compact appliances use rapid hot-air circulation to crisp food with little to no oil.

How an Air Fryer Works

Convection Heating: A heating element and built-in fan circulate hot air around the food.
Rapid Preheat: Heats up faster than a full oven.
Low-Fat Cooking: Creates a crunchy exterior with just 1–2 tablespoons of oil.
Energy Efficient: Shorter cook times save power.
Easy Cleanup: Nonstick baskets slide out and are dishwasher safe.
Preset Programs: One-touch cooking for fries, chicken, fish, and more.

What You Can Cook

An air fryer isn’t just for fries:

Frozen snacks: nuggets, mozzarella sticks, spring rolls
Fresh veggies: “fries” from carrots, parsnips, zucchini
Protein: crispy chicken, fish fillets, bacon
Baked goods: muffins, cookies, even doughnuts (in heat-proof molds)

How Much Oil to Use

Brush or spray food with 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil. This is enough to achieve that coveted golden crust without excess fat.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fryer Results

Single Layer: Don’t overcrowd the basket; leave space for air to circulate.
Shake or Flip: Pause halfway to turn items for even browning.
Keep Warm: Use your oven at 100 °C to hold cooked batches warm.
Check Early: Air fryers cook quickly—check a few minutes before the timer ends.

Easy Air-Fryer Recipes

Classic French Fries

Cut, rinse, and pat potatoes dry.
Toss with oil and seasonings (paprika, garlic powder, salt).
Air fry at 200 °C for 7–8 min, shake, then another 7–8 min.

Crispy Chicken Wings

Marinate wings in spices, lemon juice, and yogurt.
Coat in seasoned flour or crushed cornflakes.
Air fry at 190 °C for 15–20 min, flipping halfway.

Veggie Fries

Slice carrots, parsnips, or zucchini into sticks, season, and air fry at 200 °C for 12–15 min.

Mini Doughnuts

Pour dough into heat-proof silicone molds, air fry at 180 °C for 8–10 min, then dust with cinnamon sugar.