Technological advancements have transformed the kitchen, and air fryers have become one of the most popular appliances, often replacing ovens and slow cookers. Using high-speed circulating hot air, they offer a healthier alternative to deep frying by requiring little to no oil.
However, not all foods are ideal for air frying. Culinary experts warn against cooking certain items in these appliances. For instance, popcorn is a no-go, as kernels can get stuck in the heating element, creating a fire hazard. Wet batter dishes, like fried chicken, also don’t fare well, as air fryers don’t get hot enough to properly set the coating, resulting in a soggy mess.
Money-saving expert Martin Lewis advises against relying on air fryers for everything. He notes that while they’re great for quick, small meals, using them repeatedly for large or multiple items may be less energy-efficient than using a traditional oven. “If you’re going to use your air fryer 15 different times for different items, generally, you’d be better off using an oven,” he said on This Morning.
Steven Kipling from Which? echoed this sentiment, pointing out that air fryers have limited space, making batch cooking less economical compared to ovens or stovetops.
Despite the criticism, air fryer fans remain loyal. One commenter joked, “I’ll even air fry a cup of tea.”
What do you think? Do you rely on your air fryer for everyday cooking?
