In reviewing a variety of air fryers, the testing process included evaluating factors such as power, consistency, ease of use, design, features, and overall performance. Over 75 hours of air frying were logged, with a focus on popular foods like chicken wings, French fries, frozen snacks, and Brussels sprouts. Manual instructions were consulted, and uniform procedures were applied to each air fryer based on the type of food being prepared. Each model was tested with basic recipes to assess its cooking capabilities.
For chicken wings, a standard air fryer recipe was followed by preheating the unit to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cooking the wings for 25 minutes, turning them every 8 minutes. Most air fryers performed well in this test, with some models achieving crispier wings. Brussels sprouts were prepared by preheating the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and cooking for 15 minutes after cutting them in half, tossing with olive oil. While some models struggled to brown the sprouts, most eventually achieved the desired result.
Soft and watery vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms may not fare well in the intense heat of an air fryer, leading to a mushy texture. When testing French fries using frozen crinkle-cut fries, it was important to prevent thinner cuts from drying out too quickly. Heftier varieties like waffle fries, tater tots, and potato wedges were recommended for air frying. The goal was to ensure even cooking, thorough doneness, and a crispy exterior comparable to deep frying.
In addition to cooking performance, ease of use was a crucial factor in evaluating air fryers. The simplicity of controls, presets for various foods, and overall user-friendliness played a key role in determining the effectiveness of each model. While some air fryers offered digital controls, others had manual dials for setting temperature and cook time. Preset programs for wings, fries, fish, veggies, and baked goods were appreciated by testers. The placement and functionality of the control panel were also considered during testing.
Overall, the tested air fryers performed well in cooking chicken wings, Brussels sprouts, and frozen French fries. While most models passed the French fry test, it was essential to monitor the cooking process to avoid overcooking and drying out the food. Each air fryer underwent thorough testing to assess its capabilities and overall performance, taking into account factors such as cooking consistency, ease of use, design, and features. By focusing on popular air fryer foods and basic recipes, the review process provided valuable insights for consumers looking to invest in an air fryer.
