Why did I wait so long to get one?
When air fryers became a thing in the late 2010s, everyone wanted one. Not me. I was determined not to adopt this new technology. Now I’m all for new kitchen appliances and I have a vast array. A bread machine, counter top compressor style ice cream maker, three kinds of blenders, an electric griddle, and a myriad of hand tools.
But when the air fryer came out, I thought of it as only a countertop convection oven. Essentially, a convection oven includes a fan to circulate air, allowing for an even temperature and potentially crisper edges on everything.
I had no need for one of those. My kitchen is equipped with double convection wall ovens that meet all the same checkpoints offered by an air fryer.
So why would I use valuable counter space for a separate appliance to do what my convection oven already does?
Then came along an opportunity to trade a toaster for a brand new air fryer. This was a deal I couldn’t refuse.
The model I gained is a Gourmia brand with a bottom liner tray to catch crud, a solid pan with a rack, and a mesh basket. Plus, attractive French-style doors.
The first thing I tried were homemade fries. I love french fries.
Who am I kidding? I love potatoes of any kind!
But to make fresh fries at home is ideal.
Following the manufacturer’s directions, I hand-cut strips from large white potatoes. Lightly spritzed with avocado oil and seasoned with salt and pepper, spread in a single layer of the basket and popped in the air fryer the second the preheat bell signaled the machine was ready.
The beauty of this air fryer and probably all air fryers for all I know is the series of preset buttons. One of which is fries.
These fries were delicious.
Crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside, all from the air fryer without the mess of hot oil on the stovetop.
I was hooked.
Then a friend stopped by and I was singing the praises of my new air fryer. She recommended trying mini tater tots and crispy crowns. These pre-formed nuggets of shredded potatoes are designed to become crispy, but in my experience, for whatever reason, never quite did in the convection oven.
Oh my goodness! Crunchy deliciousness, just like out of a deep fryer, but without all the greasy residue.
I’ve been using it for all sorts of things, from boneless chicken wings to bacon, to warming up scones and chocolate chip cookies.
One word of caution, however. I tried some frying cheese in the basket. Even though the packaging said it was possible, mine dripped through the basket and was a horrible mess to clean up.
I am also not a fan of using the toast function to make toast. My standard toaster does a much better job of evenly toasting bread, bagels and English muffins than the air fryer. Plus, I can store it in the cabinet.
The air fryer has earned its counter space in my kitchen.
Now, what other kitchen appliance can I add to my collection?