Iven As An Air Fryer: What You Need To Know

Air fryers are similar to convection ovens, and if you own a convection oven, you may not need a standalone air fryer to achieve the same crispy results. Both appliances use fans to circulate hot air around food, but air fryers are smaller and may have quicker cooking times. However, convection ovens have more capacity, so you can cook larger batches at once. If you want to use your oven as an air fryer, you'll need to make a few adjustments, such as using a perforated tray or basket to allow hot air to circulate and cooking food in a single layer to ensure even cooking. You'll also need to be mindful of cooking times and temperatures, as convection ovens typically cook more slowly than air fryers.

Air fryer vs convection oven

Air fryers and convection ovens are similar in many ways, but there are some key differences to consider when deciding which one to use. Both appliances use fans to circulate hot air around food, creating a crispy exterior. However, there are several differences between the two that may make one more suitable for your needs than the other.

Size and Capacity

Convection ovens are larger than air fryers and have more capacity, allowing you to cook larger batches of food at once. Air fryers are smaller and more compact, which means they may be more convenient for those with limited counter space.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Convection ovens typically have longer cooking times than air fryers, and they may not reach the same high temperatures. Air fryers often cook at temperatures between 350-400°F, while convection ovens may take twice as long to reach 400°F. However, it's worth noting that some countertop air fryer ovens can take the same amount of time as a convection oven to cook food.

Energy Efficiency

Due to their smaller size, air fryers are generally more energy-efficient than convection ovens, especially when cooking for a smaller number of people. However, if you are cooking larger quantities of food or multiple items at once, using a convection oven may be more efficient as you can cook more at the same time.

Clean-up

Air fryers require cleaning the basket and pull-out compartment after each use, while convection ovens do not usually need to be cleaned after every use. However, it is important to note that some people choose to use parchment paper, silicone mats, or liners in their air fryers to reduce the amount of clean-up required.

Cost

Air fryers are typically less expensive to operate than convection ovens. According to a Nasdaq report, operating an electric oven costs about 50 cents an hour, while using an air fryer costs half of that.

Versatility

Convection ovens offer more versatility in terms of cooking methods and settings. They can be used for toasting, broiling, baking, and roasting, in addition to air frying. Air fryers, on the other hand, are more limited in their functions and are primarily used for air frying, though some models may have additional settings.

In conclusion, both air fryers and convection ovens have their advantages and disadvantages. Air fryers are compact, energy-efficient, and convenient for small quantities of food. On the other hand, convection ovens offer larger capacities, more versatility in cooking methods, and may be more suitable for cooking larger batches.

Benefits of using an oven with an air fryer

Air fryers are countertop kitchen appliances that use convection to circulate hot air (and sometimes oil) to cook food. They are known for their convenience, speed, and ability to produce crispy, evenly cooked food. While standalone air fryers are popular, you can also use your oven as an air fryer if it has a convection fan. Here are some benefits of using an oven with an air fryer:

Space Efficiency

Combining an oven with an air fryer saves valuable counter space. Standalone air fryers can take up a significant amount of counter space, especially in smaller kitchens. By using your oven as an air fryer, you eliminate the need for an additional appliance, keeping your kitchen more organized and efficient.

Larger Cooking Capacity

Ovens typically have a larger capacity than standalone air fryers, allowing you to cook larger batches of food at once. With an oven air fryer, you can prepare meals for a bigger group or make larger quantities for meal prep without having to cook in multiple batches. This is especially useful when cooking for a family or hosting gatherings.

Convenience and Versatility

Using your oven as an air fryer eliminates the need to switch between appliances for different cooking methods. Ovens with air fryer capabilities offer a wide array of settings, such as Air Baking, No Preheat Air Fry, and Air Roast, providing versatility for various recipes. You can easily switch from baking a cake to air frying chicken wings without having to use separate appliances.

Cost Savings

Investing in a standalone air fryer can be costly, and you may end up with an appliance that serves a single purpose. By using your oven as an air fryer, you save money by not purchasing an additional appliance. Additionally, since ovens are typically more energy-efficient than standalone air fryers, you may also save on your utility bills over time.

Easy Cleanup

Convection ovens generally do not require cleaning after every use, unlike air fryers, which need regular cleaning of the basket and pullout compartment. By using your oven for air frying, you can reduce the time and effort spent on cleaning multiple appliances, making your post-meal cleanup more efficient and convenient.

How to use an oven with an air fryer

If you're looking to use your oven as an air fryer, you'll need to make some adjustments to get that crispy, golden finish. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use an oven with an air fryer:

Step 1: Understand the Basics

Before you begin, it's important to know that a true air fryer setting circulates hot air rapidly and uses a perforated basket to allow heat to envelop the food from all angles. This combination creates a crispy exterior while using less oil than traditional deep frying. If your oven doesn't have a dedicated air fryer setting, you can still achieve similar results by following the steps below.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Even if your oven doesn't require preheating, it's recommended to preheat it for a few minutes, especially when using the air fryer mode. This is because ovens are larger than basket-style air fryers and take longer to heat up. Set your oven to the temperature specified in your recipe or the air fryer setting temperature.

Step 3: Prepare Your Food

To get the best results, cut your food into smaller, bite-sized pieces. This increases the exposed surface area, promoting even cooking and browning. If you're cooking meat or fish, pat the surface dry and lightly coat it with oil or cooking spray. Breaded items work better in an air fryer than wet-battered foods.

Step 4: Choose the Right Cookware

To mimic the effects of an air fryer, use a perforated tray or basket to allow hot air to circulate around the food. If you don't have a perforated tray, opt for a dark or non-stick tray with low sides or an oven-safe cooling rack. Place a cookie sheet or a baking tray on the lower rack to catch any drippings or crumbs.

Step 5: Space Out Your Food

Avoid overcrowding your tray to ensure that hot air can circulate evenly around each piece of food. This will help create a uniform golden crust. Leave some space between the food items to allow hot air to move between them.

Step 6: Adjust Time and Temperature

Ovens generally cook at a slower pace than basket-style air fryers, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Air fryers also tend to use higher temperatures, so keep that in mind when setting your oven temperature. Typically, air frying in a convection oven is done at temperatures between 350-400°F, but always refer to your specific recipe.

Step 7: Flip or Shake Your Food

Just like with a countertop air fryer, you may need to flip or shake your food halfway through the cooking process to improve air distribution. However, only do this if necessary, as opening the oven door can interrupt the air frying cycle. Spray or rub a little extra oil on the food before placing it back in the oven.

Step 8: Monitor Your Food

Keep a close eye on your food as it cooks, especially if you're using a recipe designed for a conventional oven. Air-fried foods may take a few extra minutes to cook, and you don't want them to burn. Use an alarm thermometer to know when your food is done, especially when cooking meat.

Step 9: Clean Up

While you'll still need to clean your oven regularly, there are ways to minimize the mess. Avoid using the crisper tray when cooking messy, saucy foods. Use a drip tray or a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any crumbs or oil. You can also use parchment paper or aluminium foil to line your trays for easier cleanup.

Air fryer oven pros and cons

Air fryer ovens are a relatively new phenomenon, but they are essentially a combination of high heat and fast-moving air. They are similar to a convection oven but with a built-in air-frying feature that optimises temperature and air circulation.

Pros

• No need to heat up a large oven: Air fryer ovens are great for cooking small batches of food, so you don't need to waste time and energy heating up a large oven.
• Evenly crisped food: The fast-moving air in an air fryer oven means food is cooked evenly and comes out crispy.
• Uses less oil: Air fryer ovens can create healthier versions of fried foods as they require less oil than deep frying.
• Easy to clean: Air fryer ovens typically have less clean-up than deep frying, as you only need to clean the basket and pull-out compartment.
• Convenience: Using an air fryer oven eliminates the need for another appliance that takes up counter space.
• Cook larger batches: Air fryer ovens have more capacity than air fryers, so you can cook larger amounts of food at once.

Cons

• Not suitable for all foods: Battered or "wet" foods are not suitable for air fryer ovens.
• Small batch cooking only: Air fryer ovens can only cook small batches of food, so if you're cooking for a large group, you might need to cook in batches.
• Food can get dried out: Some foods may get dried out in an air fryer oven.
• Takes up counter space: Air fryer ovens are bulky and take up counter space.
• Cleaning: Air fryer ovens can be challenging to clean due to their size and the number of components.
• Cost: Ovens with air fryer mode tend to be more expensive than regular ovens.

Air fryer oven settings

Air fryer ovens are similar to convection ovens but have a built-in air frying feature that optimises temperature and air circulation for the task. Using an air fryer oven can be more convenient than deep frying, as it uses less oil and doesn't require a separate appliance.

How to Use an Air Fryer Oven

First, you'll need to preheat your air fryer oven. This is important even if your oven says you don't need to preheat. Because air fryer ovens are larger than basket air fryers, they take a few extra minutes to preheat. If your oven has a preheat option, heat it up to the temperature specified in your recipe. If it doesn't, turn on the air fryer setting and let it sit empty for about five minutes.

Next, you'll need to prepare your food. For crispy results, cut vegetables and potatoes into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Pat meat or fish dry and lightly coat with oil or cooking spray. If using a breading, drier toppings like panko, shredded cheese, or breadcrumbs work better than wet batter.

Now it's time to cook your food. Use a perforated tray or basket to allow hot air to circulate around your food. If you don't have a perforated tray, use a dark or non-stick tray with low sides or an oven-safe cooling rack. Place a cookie sheet with aluminium foil or parchment paper on the lower rack to catch any drippings. Avoid overcrowding your food so that hot air can cook it evenly.

Finally, be mindful of cooking times and temperatures. Convection ovens typically don't cook as fast as countertop air fryers, so you may need to adjust the cooking times. Air fryer ovens generally cook at temperatures between 350-400°F, but this will vary depending on your recipe. If using a recipe for a conventional oven, reference your oven manufacturer's instructions for cook times and temperatures.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer Oven

There are several benefits to using an air fryer oven:

• Convenience: Using an oven with air frying capabilities eliminates the need for a separate appliance that takes up counter space.
• Easy cleanup: Air fryers typically require cleaning the basket and pullout compartment after each use, while convection ovens don't usually need to be cleaned after every use.
• Crispy results: Air frying in a convection oven can give you satisfyingly crispy food, especially when using dark cookware or a perforated basket.
• Larger capacity: Convection ovens have more capacity than air fryers, so you can cook larger batches at once.

Tips for Using an Air Fryer Oven

• Use an alarm thermometer to know when your meats are done.
• Baste or mist your food with oil to help it get crispy without drying out.
• Turn your food halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Don't use the crisper tray when cooking messy foods with sauce.
• Use a drip tray or baking sheet to catch any crumbs or drippings.

Frequently asked questions