Air Fryer Vs Deep Fryer: A Healthy Alternative?

Air fryers and deep fryers are two kitchen appliances that can be used to cook fried foods. Deep fryers cook food by submerging it in hot oil, while air fryers use circulating hot air and little to no oil. The main difference between the two appliances is the amount of oil used for cooking. Deep fryers are better for taste, while air fryers are healthier and more versatile. Air fryers can replace deep fryers for many cooking tasks, especially when a crispy texture is desired with less oil.

Health considerations

Deep frying is not the healthiest cooking process. The food is submerged in oil or fat, which adds excess fat to the meal. Oils used for deep frying are often high in saturated fats and trans fats, which are linked to heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Air fryers, on the other hand, use little to no oil. They cook food with circulated hot air, reducing the amount of fat in the meal. This makes them a healthier alternative to deep fryers.

Deep frying also produces acrylamide, a potential carcinogen that occurs in starchy foods when heated. Air frying does not produce this harmful compound.

In addition, deep frying requires more preparation and attention during the cooking process. Food often needs to be dipped in a wet batter before frying, adding to the overall time and effort required. Air frying is a more hands-off process, as you simply place the food in the appliance and let it cook.

Deep fryers also pose safety risks due to the presence of hot oil. There is a risk of oil splashes and spills, which can cause burns. Deep frying should be done in a well-ventilated area, as carbon monoxide can be produced during the cooking process.

Another health consideration is the taste and texture of the food. Deep frying produces a crispy texture and a traditional fried taste that some people prefer. Air frying can result in drier food, but it allows for more flavorful seasoning as it can be added before cooking.

Taste and texture

The taste and texture of food cooked in an air fryer versus a deep fryer is largely subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, there are some key differences to note.

Deep frying results in a thicker crust and a classic crispy exterior, while air frying yields a lighter, crispier outer texture. Air-fried food also tends to absorb more flavour during the cooking process, resulting in a more caramelized taste. This is because the seasoning is cooked together with the food, whereas deep-fried food is typically seasoned after cooking.

Deep frying is the preferred method for achieving the quintessential crispy, golden-brown crust associated with fried food. It is also the only option for cooking foods with wet batter, like churros. However, air frying produces comparable results in terms of taste and texture, with the added benefit of using less oil. Air-fried food may also be preferred by those who want to enhance the natural flavours of their food, as the limited amount of oil used in air frying allows the flavours of the food to shine through.

While air frying can deliver similar taste and texture to deep frying, it is important to note that not all foods are suitable for air frying. Battered foods or "wet" foods, for example, are not recommended for air frying as they may not cook evenly or achieve the desired crispness.

In terms of speed, deep frying is a faster cooking method, but it requires more effort and attention during the process. Air frying takes longer but is more hands-off, allowing you to set and forget while you spend time with your family or relax.

Cooking time

Deep fryers cook food faster than air fryers. Deep-fried food can be cooked in as little as 3-5 minutes, while air fryers typically take between 10-20 minutes to preheat and cook. However, air fryers have a shorter preheating time, taking only 5 minutes to preheat compared to 10-20 minutes for deep fryers.

Deep fryers can cook really fast because of the high temperatures used. But if using the double fry method, it doesn't save too much time.

Air fryers, although faster than a traditional oven, will still take more time than a deep fryer. Depending on the food, air frying can take double the time it takes for a deep fryer.

Deep fryers need time to heat up before cooking—it varies depending on the temperature and appliance, but it can take up to 30 minutes to reach 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Once a deep fryer has reached the proper temperature, the hot oil can cook food very quickly.

Air fryers typically take between 10-20 minutes to preheat and cook your meal. Cook times vary depending on the food being prepared, so be sure to consult the recipe as well as the packaging of the food you’re cooking.

Deep fryers can give off fumes from the boiling oil cooking. There’s also the possibility that heated oil can splatter onto you when mixed with water. These burns can cause nasty scarring on the skin.

Burning oil can cause fires and are quite common if the appliance is left unattended. Oil burns begin as simmering and eventually smoking oil, which can then catch fire. Make sure you know the oil's smoking point.

Air fryers are a more hands-off process with minimal effort required. Occasionally, you need to stir or shake the food contents to ensure even cooking as the outer edges tend to cook faster.

Deep fryers are a more involved cooking method because you can’t really leave while they’re running. Since deep frying poses more risks, it’s important to be close by. Some deep fryers come with an automatic shut-off, but you need to be there to remove the food right away when it’s done, or it can easily overcook.

Oil usage

The main difference between an air fryer and a deep fryer is the amount of oil used for cooking. Deep fryers submerge food in hot oil to cook, whereas air fryers use little to no oil, instead cooking food with rapidly circulated hot air.

Deep fryers require enough oil to completely submerge the food, with a standard electric deep fryer using 6 to 19 cups of oil. Air fryers, on the other hand, don't require any oil to cook food. However, some people like to spray food with a small amount of oil before air frying to enhance crispiness.

The oil used in deep frying can penetrate food deeper, resulting in a thicker and crispier crust. Because air fryers use little to no oil, some foods may turn out drier than with a deep fryer.

Deep frying transfers harmful fats to food during the cooking process, and these oils are linked to heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. As such, air fryers are considered a healthier alternative to deep fryers.

The use of oil in deep fryers also means there is more clean-up required, and disposing of large amounts of cooking oil can be a hassle. Air fryers, on the other hand, are much easier to clean as they use little to no oil.

Cost

Air fryers tend to be more expensive than deep fryers. Entry-level air fryers can cost around $100, while deep fryers can be purchased for as little as $25. However, air fryers go on sale more frequently, and the cost of oil for deep fryers can add up over time.

Air fryers have a higher upfront cost, but they also offer more cooking modes and can be used as a substitute for other appliances like microwaves or multi-cookers. They are a good option for those with the kitchen space and budget who want to cook smaller batches of food quickly and with less oil.

Deep fryers, on the other hand, are less expensive initially but may require more ongoing costs due to the frequent need to replace the oil. They are a good option for those who want to enjoy the traditional taste of fried foods without breaking the bank.

In terms of energy consumption, air fryers use less energy than deep fryers. They preheat and cook faster, which can lead to energy savings over time. However, it is important to weigh the cost of the unit against the energy spent on running the appliance.

Overall, the cost of an air fryer or deep fryer depends on your budget, cooking needs, and priorities. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on your specific requirements and preferences.

Frequently asked questions