The deep fryer woes
I've used and owned a deep fryer for a very long time. There's pretty much been one in the kitchens I've seen used from childhood. I got one at some point during my undergrad degree and mainly used it for chips, meat and the sparingly made puff puff (Nigerian snack). One of the reasons I used it less over time, was the time consuming and slightly disgusting oil change and cleaning. It also had this fried oil smell I couldn't stand I would always beg my mum to do it when she visited because I really couldn't stand it. So this led to me grilling meat in the oven with a little bit of oil for the fried effect.
Another reason I stopped using it was I stopped eating chips so often and my siblings who would normally have, "flew the nest". So when I got married, I got rid of the large capacity one and was gifted a smaller one. This was a 1.2L that was used mainly to fry chips or sweet potatoes on occasion. I found it to be so messy and even harder to clean properly so decided not to use it earlier this year.
What I love about my new air fryer
I've wanted an air fryer for a while, seen the adverts and people I've followed on social media use it all the time. I didn't know anyone personally that had one so I did rely on the internet for reviews and advice. Several weeks later of reading articles, watching videos or reviews on the best and most affordable air fryer, most importantly looking out for a deal! That's just what I got, a great air fryer for 35% off (thanks Currys!).
I wonder if this is how I look when I am cooking so many dishes at once lol! In my head anyway, it is a seamless affair as long as no one is in my way 😁. But I can only cook so much in a short space of time so there's the tendency to forget things in the oven or get too tired to finish my ambitious to-do list. So any kitchen appliances that makes my list more achievable and my meal planning session much quicker - is a winner!
Pros
Ease - There are many benefits to owing an air fryer including a quick and healthy alternative to deep-fried dishes. Its timer and auto switch-off function, reheating and roasting functions are all so welcomed. I think the reason I've loved it so much is making grilled meats such as chicken and turkey breast or thighs for lunch wraps. As I've been working from home, I can quickly pop it in just before lunch and allow to cook whilst I am still working or getting a walk in. As you can set the time on it you could set it for half the time and know if will go off and then turn it and re-start for the rest of the cooking time. I've enjoyed this as I get fresh food but also helps in cooking various other things such as fried plantain (dodo), chicken wings, fries and burgers.
Deep-frying effect - without all the oil, the fryer plate comes in handy as it separates your food from any excess oil if that happens. Saying that, you'll only need so little oil most of the time spraying oil or a tablespoon full. It also gives great grill marks on food such as sausages or burgers. I love the compatible size and the look, as this goes well on my kitchen counter top. It also doesn't stink up the place with hot oil. It is super easy to clean with it being dishwasher friendly or hand-wash with soapy warm water.
Even & crispy - It cooks food more evenly as air circulates in a smaller space and in shorter periods of time than a conventional oven for those things that would traditionally roast or grill. All this without making the kitchen too hot!
Cons
Space - It does take up some space on the kitchen counter, so if you have a small kitchen this could be an issue. Also the same is for if you do not like appliances on display. For larger capacity it will not fit on many counter tops with a cupboard right above it in a traditional styled kitchen, so bare that in mind when getting yours. The alternative will be to have it on an island space or store in a cupboard and bring it out when required.
Noise - It isn't particularly silent either, there's a noticeable hum when it is cooking but it isn't unbearable, you get used to it. I usually have music or a podcast on at the same time anyway.
Except from these, I haven't had any issues and am totally loving the new addition to my kitchen!
As usual this is listed on my amazon list, do have a look, otherwise check your usual homeware store for what's on offer. I hope this helps you decide and you will see more recipes using my air fryer on the blog.
Jan 2025 update- I think she's had enough of my heavy usage (3 - 5 times a week). She sometimes pauses and restarts herself but fair as it's been used a fair amount, I don't think I'll get a replacement as I am trying to streamline my counter top appliances (getting an instant tap instead of a kettle, a dual cook oven instead of an airfryer etc). But for now whilst the upgrade is pending she works for the most part.
Happy cooking! Let me know what you think.
First post 2021
Updated February 2023 with new image
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