Preparation
If you haven’t hopped on the air fryer train yet, what are you waiting for? This buzzy appliance is more than just hype; it’s a major multitasker and allows you to make crispy fried foods without all the oil and mess of a deep fat fryer. Air fryers come in a variety of sizes and price points, with optional bells and whistles depending on what you’re looking for.
For Carolyn Nguyen, owner of Revolution Taco in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, simplicity and well-rounded features are key requirements for an air fryer. Her choice is a convection-style air fryer, which will be easiest to use and clean and allows you to see your food while it’s cooking. She uses her air fryer to roast vegetables and fish. “A convection air fryer yields great baking and roasting results; with modern air fryers, you get better frying results,” Nguyen explains. “The convection air fryer operates similarly to a traditional convection oven except it doesn’t require as much electricity, time, or space.”
As you shop for your perfect air fryer, it’s also important to keep in mind how much space you have in your kitchen, how many people you’re going to be cooking for, and what you’re planning on using your air fryer for. “If you are generally cooking for two or heating up something simple, you don’t need to buy the most expensive, the biggest, or a more complicated air fryer,” Nguyen says.
Best Splurge-Worthy Air Fryer: Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer ProBest Compact Air Fryer: Dash Tasti Crisp 2.6-Quart Air FryerBest Large Capacity Air Fryer: Philips Premium Airfryer XXLBest Budget-Friendly Air Fryer: Ultrean Air FryerFan-Favorite Air Fryer: COSORI Air Fryer Max X
