Are air fryers healthy? We put them to the test against fryers to find out which one is the best Wine News

Roasted potatoes

Cut the floury potatoes into pieces and boil them then shake them; let dry and drizzle with a little oil. Air fry for about 25 minutes on the highest setting, turning twice, until golden brown and crispy.

Leftovers

As long as they don’t have a lot of sauce, leftovers are often better reheated in the air fryer than in the microwave. They will regain their crisp edges rather than becoming soggy.

Risotto

If you have an air fryer with a paddle, like the Tefal ActiFry or De’Longhi MultiFry, it will have a solid base rather than a grate, which means you can cook more liquid foods, including a good stirred risotto.

Fish

The small space means it won’t dry out and odors are limited. Rub lightly with oil or bread with breadcrumbs and air fry until crispy and golden.

Chicken

Gets crispy and stays juicy, although worth checking with a digital thermometer that it has reached 74°C before eating. Rub with the seasoning of your choice and cook 9 to 10 minutes on each side.

Roasted vegetable roots

Cut into pieces, stir in the oil, salt and smoked paprika and roast for 20-25 minutes. Add pieces of onion or leek after 10 minutes, as they darken quickly.

Kale Chips

Spray the cut leaves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Spread in a single layer and cook for four or five minutes at 190°C, shaking the pan after two minutes. Let cool and crisp on a wire rack while you cook another batch.

What foods don’t cook well in an air fryer?

fried foods

You can make good “baked” versions, but don’t expect the dishes to have the thick crust or creamy quality of hot oil-soaked food.

Beaten foods

Wet pasta will drain before it has a chance to set.

Cheese

Fresh cheese will slip, so even in toast you need to weigh it down, hold it in place with a toothpick, or use frozen slices.

Donuts and churros

You can cook a bread batter in some air fryers, but runny batters and churros are a non-starter.

Leafy greens

Spinach and chard tend to turn into mush.

Four gadgets put to the test

The multicooker

Foodi 7-in-1 Multicooker, £199.99, Ninja