Really not sure why I waited so long to buy an air fryer, but I am officially an advocate now. Worst part of buying one is I now need to update all my recipes with an air fryer option. First, let's get on the same page as to what an air fryer is. The word fryer may lead you to believe this appliance deep fries and that is not the case. They act more like a convention oven.
In terms of how the air fryer performs, my smashed, roasted potatoes turn out better in the air fryer, with less fat, and obviously cook a lot faster than in the oven.
So far I've cooked stuffed chicken, salmon, quesadillas, broccolini, beef filets, sweet potato, and all turned out fabulous. The time save, reduced clean up, and less fat make this appliance and absolute kitchen staple.
I typically don't make a habit of recommending brands unless someone asks. Personally, I went with the Cosori based on overall ratings, price, safety, easy of cleaning, and size. I needed one that didn't take up too much real estate on my counter and could fit in a cupboard. Now that I have one, I'd rather keep my air fryer on the counter than my toaster!
There are 2 main types of air fryers, basket air fryers (single basket and dual) and convection oven air fryers. The convection oven version look a lot like a counter-top toaster oven and has additional functions like bake, roast, toast, and broil. Some brands come with a rotisserie capability. I tend to stay away from products that claim to do 10-in-1 things, as I find they tend to do everything below average and don't do the one thing brilliantly you want it to do. Asking around and product reviews confirmed that.
Mine is single basket and I love the shake feature. Simple to use, just remember to do the 4 minute preheat. Next time, I'd likely go with the dual basket. I purchased the accessories kit for an additional $30. All up, $110. I bought the Lotelli Air Fryer Guide Times magnets which I am still determining if it's even accurate. The chicken recommended cooking time was not, and I think I may return and just Google. Should you buy one? Regardless of the type of cook you are and if you have little time to cook at the end of a busy day, then this is a game changer.
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