Air fryers come with many features, but in this article, we will discuss the essential features for air fryers. Some features make an air fryer more versatile, as it’s not only used for air frying but also for other oven functions.
Air fryers are the top choice for Indian consumers due to their health benefits, as they offer a great alternative to deep frying. It is essential to understand the features of an air fryer and its use.
8 Essential Features for an Air Fryer
- Pre-sets
- Manual Buttons
- Digital Display
- Preheat
- Convection
- Rotisserie
- Timer
- Temperature
Pre-sets
Pre-sets are very useful features when it comes to ovens, especially for air fryers. With pre-sets, you can cook with a single click (automatically set time & temperature for specific recipes), and the best part is that you don’t need to know the specific time and temperature for a particular recipe.
Typically, air fryers offer 5 to 16 pre-set options, and in some cases, even more. These pre-sets come in two types: digital or manual. I personally recommend choosing the manual pre-sets with buttons. They are more flexible and easier to use. Digital controllers have their advantages, such as the ability to store a large number of pre-sets in a smaller space, but they require more space due to the number of buttons.
However, manual buttons tend to take up more space, so not all brands offer this feature as frequently as, for instance, the Agaro Regal Plus air fryer. The Agaro Royal 14.5L air fryer provides the maximum number of presets at 25 for both the air fryer and air fryer oven.
Manual Buttons
Manual buttons are the primary controls on an air fryer, allowing you to directly control the time, temperature, and other functions. Most air fryers provide dedicated buttons (knobs) for these functions. However, in some cases, they may offer digital controls, which could be a challenge for older individuals or beginners.
Digital Display
The digital display enhances the air fryer’s usability by showing time, temperature, and the selected preset. This feature makes the air fryer more user-friendly, as it clearly displays instructions and values on the screen.
Preheat
Preheating in an air fryer is a process where you allow the appliance to heat up to the desired cooking temperature before you start cooking your food. for Reduces Cooking Time, and Enhances Texture and Crispiness.
Convection
The convection feature in air fryers is superior to that of microwave ovens and OTG (Oven Toaster Griller). Convection technology circulates (flows) heat with the help of a fan and is essential for air fryers to work effectively.
Rotisserie
Rotisserie is a valuable feature in air fryers and OTG ovens. Contrary to the common belief that it’s mainly used for non-vegetarian recipes, you can also use the Rotisserie function for vegetarian dishes. It rotates your food using a Rotisserie rod, ensuring even heating for grilling and roasting. This feature makes it more convenient to prepare dishes like chicken tikka and paneer tikka.
Timer
The typical timer on an air fryer is approximately 60 minutes, with the lowest setting at 30 minutes. Some air fryer ovens offer a 90-minute timer, which is very convenient for longer cooking times. Additionally, certain air fryer ovens provide a timer that can be set for up to 24 hours, allowing you to schedule cooking times. A longer timer offers flexibility for various cooking needs, as seen in the Agaro Regency 12L air fryer oven.
Temperature
Air fryers usually offer a temperature range from a minimum of 50 degrees Celsius to 200 degrees Celsius. Some air fryers provide a higher temperature of up to 250 degrees, which is suitable for non-vegetarian recipes, while 200-220 degrees is typically sufficient. Air fryers offer more control over temperature compared to other ovens, allowing users to cook food quickly. For the highest temperature, the Geek AiroCook Digix 30L air fryer oven reaches 250 degrees Celsius.
FAQ
Why are pre-set functions important in an air fryer?
What is the advantage of choosing manual pre-sets over digital ones?
How does the convection feature in air fryers differ from that in microwave ovens?
What can you cook with the Rotisserie function in an air fryer?
Why is a longer timer and higher temperature range important in an air fryer?
Conclusion
when it comes to selecting the right air fryer for your kitchen, there are several essential features to consider. These features can greatly enhance your cooking experience and make your air fryer a versatile addition to your home appliances.
Ultimately, choosing the right air fryer with the features that best suit your cooking needs will make a significant difference in your culinary adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these essential features will help you make the most of your air fryer, enhancing your cooking capabilities and making your home kitchen appliances complete.
Also, check How to Use an Air Fryer