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What is an air fryer? Here is everything you need to know.
Air fryers are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers who want to enjoy their favourite fried foods without all the extra calories and fat. But how do these countertop kitchen appliances work, and are they really as healthy as they claim to be?
How do air fryers work?
Air fryers use rapid air technology the term used by Phillips that describes the way air fryers work. Fast flowing air is heated by a heating element and circulates around the food by a fan when the heat reflects off the base of the basket cooking it evenly and quickly. The hot air cooks the food from all sides, creating a crispy, golden exterior and a moist and juicy interior.
Are air fryers healthier to cook with?
One of the main benefits of air fryers is that they require much less oil than a traditional deep fryer, in fact, you need little to no oil to cook food in an air fryer. This means you can enjoy your favourite fried foods like french fries, chicken wings, and onion rings without all the extra calories and fat that come with traditional deep frying. However, it’s important to note that some foods may still require a small amount of oil to achieve the desired texture and flavour.
Is using an air fryer faster at cooking?
The benefits of air fryers
The air fryer cooking chamber is smaller in size around 5 to 7 litres compared to regular convection ovens which are around 70 litres, this means the cooking area gets up to temperature much faster. Because the hot air circulates around the food, it cooks much faster than convection ovens, which can save you time in the kitchen.
Additionally, air fryers are generally easy to clean and maintain, as the baskets and accessories can be washed in the dishwasher.
While air fryers are a great option for cooking healthier versions of your favourite fried foods, it’s important to remember that they are not a magic solution for weight loss or a healthy diet. It’s still important to eat a balanced diet and limit your intake of fried foods, even if they are cooked in an air fryer.
Conclusion
Air fryers work by using rapid air technology to circulate hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior and moist interior without the need for excess oil. They are a convenient and efficient way to cook healthier versions of your favourite fried foods but should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
