Having tested numerous air fryers, my kitchen counter is often adorned with two or three of these modern appliances, creating a warm and inviting showroom atmosphere. Through my work, I gradually shifted away from relying on my oven for everyday cooking tasks, intrigued by the potential of air fryers.
Spending more time experimenting with air fryers led me to question the necessity of using my oven altogether. To satisfy my curiosity, I decided to exclusively use an air fryer for all my oven-cooking needs for a month. Contrary to its name, an air fryer functions more like a mini convection oven than a deep fryer, capable of cooking a wide variety of dishes.
During this month-long experiment, I challenged myself to prepare everything in the air fryer that I typically would in the oven, without resorting to bland frozen meals for sustenance.
The Air Fryer of Choice
Opting for the Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer, I was drawn to its versatility as a cooker. Featuring two 5.2L cooking zones that can be used separately or combined into a 10.4L “megazone,” this air fryer offers ample space for cooking various dishes like whole roasts or full-size cakes.
1. Reheating Strategies
My initial mishap involved over-reheating pizza slices in the air fryer, resulting in a less-than-appetizing outcome. To avoid such blunders, it’s advisable to reduce the cooking temperature slightly for most dishes, except for frozen, breaded items like chicken or fries.
Adjusting to air fryer cooking involves a learning curve, so it’s wise to add a few extra minutes of cooking time while finding the optimal temperatures. Remember, you can’t undo overcooked food, so caution is key.
2. Microwave + Air Fryer Combo
Combining the convenience of a microwave with the efficiency of an air fryer proved to be a time-saving approach. From reheating shepherd’s pies to preparing jacket potatoes, this hybrid cooking method offers quick and satisfactory results, especially when using a model with built-in probes for precision cooking.
While some dishes may require a preliminary microwave session followed by air frying for optimal results, the cost-effectiveness and speed make this duo a winning combination.
3. Simplified Baking
Surprisingly, baking in an air fryer is not only feasible but also efficient, offering a quicker and energy-saving alternative to traditional ovens. Despite space limitations, air fryers can accommodate small cake tins or loaf pans, producing equally delectable treats with a slight adjustment in baking temperature.
Embracing the novelty of baking in an air fryer yields delightful results.
Emma Rowley / Foundry
While following a standard oven recipe, remember to reduce the baking temperature slightly in the air fryer to achieve the desired consistency throughout the cake. Avoid overheating, as it can lead to uneven baking and a disappointing outcome.
4. Embrace Culinary Exploration
Encouraged by the success of baking, I ventured into uncharted territory, experimenting with various dishes in the air fryer. From crisping up gnocchi to roasting vegetables, the possibilities are endless, offering a flavorful twist to familiar recipes.
Exploring new culinary horizons with the air fryer unlocks a world of gastronomic delights.
While steaming vegetables may be a healthier option, air frying them with a hint of oil and garlic adds a savory dimension that outweighs the health concerns.
5. Limitations and Realizations
Despite its versatility, a standard air fryer falls short when it comes to accommodating larger items like 10-inch pizzas, necessitating the use of a conventional oven for such dishes. Leafy vegetables and wet batters are also best avoided in the air fryer to prevent undesirable outcomes.
Emma Rowley / Foundry
While unconventional cooking methods may yield acceptable results, some culinary classics are best left to traditional cooking appliances for optimal outcomes.
6. Farewell to the Oven
After a month of exclusive air fryer use, my perception of my oven has shifted dramatically. The cumbersome size, extended cooking times, and challenging cleaning process now make it seem archaic in comparison to the efficient air fryer.
With the exception of elaborate roast dinners or pizza nights, my oven remains dormant, as the air fryer continues to impress with its versatility and convenience. While the exact energy savings may be difficult to quantify, the time and effort saved in cooking and cleaning make the transition worthwhile.
Ready to Take the Air Fryer Plunge?
Explore reviews of the FlexDrawer for more insights or discover top dual-zone air fryers to compare options. While the FlexDrawer may not be available in the US, the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket offers a comparable alternative with a slightly smaller capacity.
For expanded cooking space akin to the FlexDrawer, consider investing in an air fryer oven. Browse our comprehensive reviews of top air fryer ovens for a suitable alternative. Additionally, explore recommendations for the best Ninja air fryer and top overall air fryer models to enhance your culinary experience.
