The air fryer is the ideal kitchen appliance for preparing savory and sweet dishes without fear of frying smells and the many oil changes, especially between each type of food. Many types of fryers are on the market, all with different features.
Some are classic and run on oil; others are healthier and run on forced hot air. There are also electric fryers. Which fryer to choose and why? What are the selection criteria? Follow the leader.
Good reasons to buy a fryer
Having a Typhur Dome Air Fryer at home means having an easy-to-use kitchen appliance and enjoying a faster frying process. Let’s discover the advantages of the deep fryer:
Considerable time saving
Many of you want to buy a fryer because it is a time-saving appliance. Indeed, the frying process is much faster than that of the ordinary frying pan. Unlike the classic frying pan, the deep fryer avoids overcooking the food if it is not turned over and allows you to obtain perfect frying. It is kitchen equipment that is very easy to use and store.
Oil saving
It is normal to use oil for frying. However, this is not the healthiest way to cook. If you use a frying pan, you will necessarily have to use a significant amount of oil each time you fry food. You cannot use the same oil to cook other food.
To save money, you can buy a fryer. This kitchen appliance has an oil filter that allows you to use the same oil when frying another food.
Delicious and crispy dishes
With an air fryer, the possibilities are endless because there are several air fryer recipes you can try. You can prepare pork, fish, vegetables and snacks such as fries, cupcakes and crackers. This appliance allows you to make savory or sweet dishes to please the whole family.
What are the different types of fryers?
You can choose between different fryers, including the traditional oil bath fryer, the electric oil fryer, and the air fryer or air fryer. Here are the characteristics of each type:
The oil bath fryer
This is the most classic fryer model. It consists of a pan, a basket, and a lid. It is straightforward to use, you have to put it on the hob, add oil and wait for it to heat up to add the food.
An inexpensive device that allows you to control the heating temperature and use the lid as a dish. This model is easier to clean than the electric fryer, as it can be put in the dishwasher.
Electric oil fryer
The second fryer model found on the market is the electric oil fryer. It is a classic model that is very easy to use and uses the same principle as a traditional fryer.
It consists of several resistors which heat the oil bath and allow frying. You must choose whether you want to release the cooker or the hotplate for other uses. You will be able to use the fryer and carry out other cooking at the same time because the device will be connected to an electrical outlet.
You can adjust the temperature and the cooking thermostat and use the cold zone to avoid re-deposing the grilled food’s remains on the new ones. Some electric fryers have a lid equipped with grease and odor filters, and others have oil drain valves, which are very practical for cleaning the tank and other parts of the kitchen appliance. Another advantage of this fryer: it is more flat and stable than conventional oil models.
On the other hand, the main disadvantage of this device is that it is difficult to clean. Carrying out total degreasing while handling the device will be necessary. A chore that requires time and energy, knowing that the electric fryer is heavier than the traditional fryer and that many parts are not dishwasher safe. Also, unlike the classic oil model, this model does not have a lid that can be used as a fries dish.
The oil-free or hot-air fryer
There’s the hot air fryer for those looking for a fryer that doesn’t use any oil to fry. This model has the particularity of cooking fries with little or no oil. Indeed, the cooking is done thanks to the hot air circulating in the tank. It is the ideal solution for those who want to make healthier fries. Depending on the model chosen, you can also take advantage of a turntable that allows you to cook or defrost other dishes.
Another good reason to buy a hot air fryer is that it gives off less odor and grease. Also, cleaning is effortless. Most models are dishwasher safe, which makes cleaning relatively simple. We also note that this type of fryer has an anti-odor lid. Even though the fries’ taste and texture differ from those cooked with the oil fryer, the fries are still delicious.
Fryer selection criteria
First of all, you must choose the type of fryer, between the classic oil model, the electric oil model, and the forced hot air model. As we have seen above, each model has its advantages and disadvantages that are useful to study before making the purchase. Choose the fryer based on your needs, budget, and the storage space available in your home.
Basket capacity
To know how many fries you can cook, analyze the basket’s capacity. This varies depending on the model and is generally between 700 g and 2 kg, knowing the baskets must be two-thirds full. If you want to make fries, estimate about 200 g per person. With a 1 kg fryer, you can prepare it for 3 to 4 people.
Oil volume
Another criterion to evaluate when buying a fryer is the volume of oil. Like the capacity, this one depends on the model of the device. The small capacities are between 1.5 to 2 liters, while the large capacities are between 2 to 4 liters. You should also know that the design of the fryer and its options influence the amount of oil.
The cold zone
The cold zone is the zone that is at the bottom of the tank and which is not subjected to the swirling movements of the oil quivering above the heating resistance. Concretely, this means two temperature layers exist in the same oil bath.
Thermostat
In principle, all fryer models have an adjustable thermostat. You can adjust the temperature of the tank. In general, the setting is between 150 and 190°C. Some models can even reach 200°C.
Filter systems
There are anti-odor filters and oil filters. Odor filters are usually carbon filters or permanent metal filters. They are used to reduce odors from frying.
Remember that poor quality or rarely changed oil can increase odor problems. This is why it is necessary to use perfect quality oil and to renew it reasonably regularly.
The removable tank
Also, remember to check the tank. If it is removable, it will be straightforward to maintain and can be put in the dishwasher. The removable tank also has the advantage of making it easier to filter and drain the oil.
The timer
Most electric fryers have a built-in timer. This allows you to monitor the cooking. At the end of the cycle, the timer emits an audible signal.
Security
Another essential criterion is security. Choose a fryer with cool exterior walls. This will reduce the risk of burns, mainly if you use the device in the presence of children. Similarly, opt for a fryer with a system that dampens the plunge of the basket to limit splashing.
In conclusion
Finally, also check the brand and price of the fryer. Preferably, choose a fryer from a well-known brand that will offer you a guarantee on the product and after-sales service.
In the event of a breakdown, you can obtain assistance and replace the kitchen appliance if it cannot be repaired. It is better to spend a little more and buy a branded fryer than a low-end appliance.
