Air fryers have become one of the most sought-after kitchen appliances in recent years, with more and more households embracing their convenience, efficiency, and ability to create delicious meals with less oil. But what makes them such a must-have? Whether you're considering purchasing one or simply curious about the hype, this guide will explore the advantages of air fryers and help you decide if they’re the right fit for your kitchen.
The surge in air fryer sales is no coincidence. Consumers are increasingly looking for ways to prepare healthier meals without sacrificing taste, and air fryers provide the perfect solution. Instead of deep-frying in oil, air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to crisp food, making them a game-changer for those seeking a balance between indulgence and well-being.
Additionally, with rising energy costs, many are turning to air fryers as an efficient alternative to traditional ovens. They often use less power and cook food faster, helping to reduce both cooking time and electricity bills. But efficiency is just one piece of the puzzle - let’s dive into the biggest reasons people love their air fryers.
If you’re wondering whether an air fryer is worth the investment, here are some of the top advantages:
1. Healthier Cooking with Less Oil
One of the main reasons people invest in an air fryer is the ability to cook food with significantly less oil. Traditional frying methods require food to be submerged in oil, adding extra fat and calories. In contrast, air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food, achieving a crispy exterior similar to deep frying but with significantly less oil. This method can reduce fat content by up to 75%, making meals healthier without compromising on taste.
Lower fat intake is associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Air fryers can also help decrease the formation of acrylamide - a potentially harmful compound linked to cancer that often forms in high-heat cooking methods like deep frying.
2. Energy Efficiency and Faster Cooking
Compared to ovens, air fryers preheat quickly and cook food in a fraction of the time. This means less time waiting around for meals to be ready and lower energy consumption, making them both cost-effective and convenient.
For example, here’s how air fryer cooking times and energy use compare to a traditional oven:
As you can see, air fryers not only cut cooking times but also significantly reduce energy usage—helping to lower your electricity bill while getting meals on the table faster.
3. Versatile Meal Options
Air fryers aren’t just for chips and fried chicken. They can roast, bake, and even grill, allowing you to prepare a variety of dishes, from vegetables and fish to pastries and meats. Many models also come with different cooking modes to further expand their versatility.
For instance, roasting vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and even broccoli in an air fryer helps retain more nutrients compared to boiling or steaming. Plus, the caramelisation from air frying enhances their natural sweetness and flavour.
4. Easy to Use and Clean
Designed with simplicity in mind, air fryers often feature digital controls, preset functions, and intuitive interfaces, making them accessible for all cooking abilities. Unlike deep fryers, which can leave behind messy oil splatters, air fryers have removable baskets and trays that are often dishwasher-safe—making cleanup quick and hassle-free.
5. Compact and Space-Saving
For those with smaller kitchens or limited counter space, air fryers offer a great alternative to bulkier appliances. Their compact size means they can easily fit into most kitchens without taking up too much room.
To get the best results from your air fryer, it’s important to use it correctly. Here are some essential tips to ensure your food turns out perfectly every time.
✅ Preheat for Best Results – While some models heat up quickly, preheating your air fryer for a few minutes before adding food helps ensure even cooking and a crispy texture.
✅ Use a Light Coating of Oil – Although air fryers require far less oil than traditional frying methods, a small amount can help enhance flavour and crispiness. A light spray or brushing of oil can also prevent food from sticking to the basket.
✅ Adjust Cooking Time & Temperature Accordingly – Air fryers cook faster than conventional ovens, so it’s important to follow recommended times and temperatures for different foods. Checking on your food halfway through can help prevent overcooking.
✅ Shake or Turn Food for Even Cooking – For foods like chips, nuggets, or vegetables, shaking the basket or flipping items halfway through ensures they cook evenly and develop a golden-brown finish.
✅ Keep the Basket from Getting Overcrowded – Allow enough space for hot air to circulate around your food. Overfilling the basket can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy result.
❌ Avoid Overloading the Basket – Cooking too much at once can block airflow, leading to unevenly cooked food. If needed, cook in batches for the best texture and doneness.
❌ Don’t Use Too Much Oil – While a little oil enhances crispiness, too much can cause excessive smoke and greasy results. Stick to a light coating for optimal cooking.
❌ Don’t Cook Wet or Battered Foods Without Adjustments – Foods with a wet batter (such as tempura) may not crisp up properly in an air fryer. Consider using a light breading or coating designed for air frying instead.
❌ Avoid Using Non-Compatible Accessories – Always use accessories specifically made for air fryers. Items not designed for high-heat air circulation may warp, melt, or even become a fire hazard.
❌ Don’t Neglect Cleaning – Regular cleaning prevents grease build-up and ensures your air fryer continues to work efficiently. Wash the basket, tray, and any removable parts after each use to maintain hygiene and performance.
If you're considering an air fryer, choosing the right model and accessories can make all the difference. Whether you need a compact option for everyday meals or a larger model for family cooking, here are some top recommendations to help you get started.
Salter Digital Air Fryer 8L XXL Single Drawer – Ideal for those who need a spacious, high-capacity fryer, this model features an 8-litre basket, digital controls, and rapid air circulation for effortless cooking.
Salter Dual Air Fryer 7.4L EK4750BLK – Perfect for cooking different foods at the same time, this dual-basket air fryer allows you to synchronise cooking times for a seamless meal experience.
Tower Xpress Pro Manual 5-in-1 Digital Air Fryer 11L with Rotisserie – More than just an air fryer, this 5-in-1 model includes rotisserie and baking functions, making it a fantastic all-in-one cooking solution.
Must-Have Air Fryer Accessories:
Tower Air Fryer Square Solid Tray with Divider – This handy tray allows you to separate different foods in the air fryer basket, preventing flavours from mixing while ensuring even cooking.
Tower Air Fryer Oven Cookbook – Explore a variety of air fryer recipes, from crispy snacks to healthy mains, with this dedicated cookbook designed to help you get the most out of your appliance.
Chef Aid Square Air Fryer Liners (20cm, Pack of 40) – Reduce mess and make cleanup a breeze with these disposable liners, designed to fit most air fryer baskets.
For our full selection of high-quality air fryers and accessories, browse the range available at Lawson Shop here.
Conclusion
Air fryers have revolutionised home cooking, offering a healthier, quicker, and more efficient way to prepare meals. With their growing popularity, it’s clear they are more than just a passing trend. With benefits ranging from reduced fat consumption to lower energy costs, it's no wonder they’ve become a kitchen favourite.
Whether you’re a busy professional, a health-conscious home cook, or simply looking for a more energy-efficient way to prepare food, an air fryer is a kitchen gadget well worth considering.
Sources:
https://www.diy.com/ideas--advice/kitchen/appliances/6-reasons-why-you-need-an-air-fryer-in-your-kitchen
https://www.domesticappliances.philips.co.in/health-benefits-of-cooking-with-an-airfryer
https://www.which.co.uk/reviews/air-fryers/article/air-fryer-vs-oven-energy-cost-cooking-results-compared-aPpAt8D1Agy5
https://nedis.com/en-us/trend/why-are-air-fryers-so-popular
