What Is an Air Fryer, and How Does It Cook Your Food?

Even though air fryers have been around for over a decade, the craze isn’t dying down any time soon. And why would it? Air fryers are one of the most versatile and easy-to-use appliances, helping to make delicious meals within minutes. If you’re already an avid air fryer user, you need no convincing. But, if you’re debating whether to add yet another gadget to your kitchen counter, we can confidently say that you won’t regret joining the air fryer fan club. Keep reading to learn more about what an air fryer is, and exactly how it cooks your food to perfection every time.

What Is an Air Fryer? 

Whether you’re a frequent air fryer user or you’re a total newbie, you might still be wondering; what is an air fryer exactly? 

You can think of an air fryer as a countertop version of a convection oven. Like an oven, there is a heating element, but with an air fryer that element is combined with an impressively powerful fan that transmits hot air throughout the basket in order to cook the food at around 400 degrees. This cooking method creates the perfect crispy exterior all without frying food. This means you can enjoy some of your favorite snacks like chicken tenders, French fries, and potato skins without the additional oil and grease. 

How Does an Air Fryer Work? 

One of the reasons why everyone loves an air fryer is because it’s a foolproof cooking method, even for those who hate cooking. Every air fryer has either a perforated basket, a vented ceramic plate, or wire rack inside where you place the food. This allows hot air to completely circulate said food, cooking it perfectly time and time again. Some air fryers are large enough to cook an entire chicken, while others are better suited for smaller foods such as potatoes, poached eggs, or kale chips.

There are also some air fryers with side-by-side cooking options. Known as dual-zone air fryers, these appliances work like a typical air fryer, but are incredibly convenient because they allow you to cook two foods at different temperatures and with different cook times. 

What Can You Cook in an Air Fryer?

While comfort foods are some of the most popular items to air fry, the options are pretty much endless. From vegetables like cauliflower, green beans, and Brussel sprouts, to protein such as pork chops, bacon, and meatballs, you can use your air fryer for every meal. And believe it or not, you can even cook eggs, fish, and some sweet treats in your trusty air fryer too. 

Is Air Fried Food Healthy?

Not only is air frying easier and less messy than the typical frying process, but it’s also significantly healthier since you’re not technically frying anything. Air frying your food cuts calories by almost 80 percent, and contains less fat. You also don’t have to worry about oil splattering everywhere, or having a greasy final product.

Air Fryer Recipes 

Need some air fryer recipe inspiration? These mouthwatering dishes are perfect for the whole family. 

Jammy Hand Pies

These sweet and fruity hand-held pies are so simple to make, and are great for parties or gatherings. The best part? You can use store-bought pie crusts, so there’s no need to whip up anything from scratch.

Air Fryer S’mores

Thanks to your air fryer, you can enjoy s’mores all year round. In fact, you might find yourself exclusively using the air fryer for all of your s'mores cravings since it’s a safer option and the clean up is easy!

Air Fryer Poached Eggs

If you’ve always wanted to master poached eggs but can’t quite get them right, might we suggest using your air fryer? All you need to do is crack an egg into a ramekin and cook for about five minutes. It doesn’t get better (or easier) than that.

Ricotta Meatballs

In just under 30 minutes, you can prepare some of the most delicious, better-for-you meatballs. Skip the pan-frying and put them in the air fryer at 375 degrees for 10 to 15 minutes instead. You won’t regret it!