Stainless Steel Air Fryers: Worth The Investment?

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, and stainless steel options are in demand. Stainless steel air fryers are made with high-quality materials and are a healthier alternative to traditional fat fryers. They are safer to use, as there is no large pool of hot oil to potentially cause accidents. Stainless steel air fryers are also attractive, versatile, and easy to clean.

There are a variety of stainless steel air fryers available on the market, including the COSORI, Innsky, and Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer. These products vary in features, capacity, and price, but all offer the benefits of stainless steel construction.

When searching for a stainless steel air fryer, be cautious as some products marketed as stainless steel may only have a stainless steel exterior. Additionally, consider the air fryer's capacity, functions, and ease of cleaning before making a purchase.

Are stainless steel air fryers safe?

Air fryers are becoming an increasingly popular kitchen appliance due to their ability to produce healthier fried foods with minimal oil. While they are primarily designed to rival traditional fryers, most air fryers can also roast, grill, and bake food, making them a versatile addition to your kitchen.

However, concerns have been raised about the safety of air fryers, particularly regarding the non-stick coatings used in some models. These coatings, often made from Teflon (PTFE) or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), can contain potentially toxic "forever chemicals" that may leach into food when heated. While these materials are generally safe when used properly, they pose a risk if the coating becomes scratched or damaged, as tiny particles could be ingested.

To address these concerns, some air fryers are now made with stainless steel or ceramic coatings instead of non-stick materials. Stainless steel air fryers offer several benefits, including:

Safety

As mentioned earlier, stainless steel air fryers do not have the same toxic chemical concerns as non-stick coatings. This means you don't have to worry about potentially harmful chemicals leaching into your food, making it a safer option for your family.

Durability

Stainless steel is known for its durability and resistance to scratches or damage. This means your air fryer is likely to last longer, and you won't have to worry about the coating breaking down over time.

Easy to Clean

Stainless steel is easy to maintain and can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher, depending on the manufacturer's instructions. This makes it more convenient and reduces the risk of damaging the coating during cleaning, as may be the case with non-stick surfaces.

Attractive Appearance

In addition to its practical benefits, stainless steel adds a sleek and modern look to your kitchen appliances. Many people prefer the aesthetic of stainless steel over plastic or non-stick coatings.

When choosing a stainless steel air fryer, it's important to ensure that not only the exterior but also the cooking chamber and basket are made from stainless steel to avoid any potential contact with toxic materials. Additionally, consider the capacity, cooking functions, and ease of use to find a model that best suits your needs.

• Instant Pot Duo Crisp with Ultimate Lid: This air fryer has a stainless steel interior and offers multiple cooking functions like air frying, slow cooking, and pressure cooking. It's easy to use and perfect for quick, healthy weeknight meals.
• Ninja Combi Multicooker: This air fryer features a ceramic-coated basket and a range of cooking functions, including roasting, air frying, baking, and toasting. It heats up quickly and consistently produces crispy and evenly cooked food.
• KitchenAid Digital Countertop Oven with Air Fry: This large countertop oven has a spacious, non-toxic stainless steel rack. It offers nine versatile cooking modes and is perfect for families or those who cook for a crowd.

In conclusion, stainless steel air fryers offer a safer and more durable alternative to traditional non-stick air fryers. They provide peace of mind, knowing that your food is not being exposed to potentially harmful chemicals. With their easy maintenance and attractive appearance, stainless steel air fryers are a worthwhile investment for any home cook.

Are stainless steel air fryers easy to clean?

Stainless steel air fryers are available in the market and are a great option for those looking for an easy-to-clean appliance. Here are some reasons why stainless steel air fryers are a good choice when it comes to cleaning:

Non-Stick Properties

Stainless steel, by nature, has some non-stick properties. This means that food residue and grease can be easily wiped away with minimal effort, making the cleaning process much simpler.

Dishwasher-Safe

Many stainless steel air fryers have parts that are dishwasher-safe, such as the basket, tray, and insert. This makes cleaning even more convenient, as you can simply place these parts in the dishwasher instead of washing them by hand.

Removable Parts

Removable parts, such as a removable door and heating element, can make cleaning a stainless steel air fryer a breeze. Being able to remove these parts allows for easier access to nooks and crannies, ensuring a more thorough cleaning.

Rounded Corners and Seamless Design

Stainless steel air fryers with rounded corners and a seamless design are ideal. These features make it harder for food crumbs and grease to find hiding spots, reducing the amount of scrubbing and wiping needed to keep your air fryer clean.

Easy-to-Clean Exterior

The exterior of a stainless steel air fryer is typically sleek and easy to wipe down. While stainless steel may show smudges more easily, a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth can keep it looking spotless.

• Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer: This air fryer has a dishwasher-safe, non-stick basket and crisper tray, making cleanup a breeze.
• Ninja Max XL Air Fryer: The Ninja Max XL features a ceramic-coated basket and crisper plate that are dishwasher-safe, allowing for quick and easy cleanup.
• Cosori 4-Quart Smart Air Fryer: The Cosori air fryer has a dishwasher-safe, non-stick basket, simplifying the cleaning process and giving you more time to explore its pre-set functions.
• Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer: With its intuitive design and clear view window, this air fryer is not only easy to use but also a cinch to clean.

In addition to the specific models mentioned above, the Cuisinart TOA-26 and Emeril Lagasse 26 QT air fryers, available on Amazon, are also worth considering for their stainless steel construction and easy cleanup.

Tips for Keeping Your Air Fryer Clean

To make cleaning your stainless steel air fryer even easier, here are some helpful tips:

• Use a light spray of oil on the cooking basket to prevent food from sticking.
• Line the basket with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch any residue and make cleanup simpler.
• Clean your air fryer after every use, even if it's just a quick wipe-down, to prevent buildup.
• For stubborn grease, use a vinegar solution (equal parts water and white vinegar) to spray and wipe away grease without damaging the non-stick coating.
• For tough stains, create a paste with baking soda and water, and scrub gently to lift the stain without scratching the surface.
• Don't forget to clean the exterior, including buttons and dials, with a damp cloth or a vinegar solution for stainless steel.

By choosing a stainless steel air fryer and following these cleaning tips, you can ensure that your air fryer remains in pristine condition with minimal effort.

What are the best stainless steel air fryers?

Air fryers are a great addition to any kitchen, offering a healthier alternative to traditional fryers. They use little-to-no oil, reducing the fat content of your food, and are safer to use, with no hot oil to spill or splash.

There are a variety of stainless steel air fryers on the market, with options to suit different budgets and needs. Here are some of the best:

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer

This air fryer offers a reasonable price and impressive cooking results. It has a wide, square-shaped basket, which can fit batches of fries or wings without overcrowding. It's quiet, with a non-stick interior for easy cleaning, and it's very consistent and accurate. It may not be the best option for those who want to cook for a crowd, but it's a great size for a family.

COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer

This compact and powerful air fryer has lots of functions and is available at a well-below-average price. It includes a special mode for cooking frozen foods, as well as keep warm and proof settings. It's also very easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe parts. However, it may not achieve the same level of crispness as other air fryers.

Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer

This combination toaster oven and air fryer is a great option for those who want a versatile appliance. It can toast, bake, roast, and even fit a 13-inch pizza or a whole chicken. It has smart sensors and heating elements for perfect cooking every time, and a clear viewing window to check on your food. However, it is a big investment and takes up a lot of counter space.

Ninja 4-Quart Air Fryer

This small air fryer is perfect for those with limited counter space or for solo cooks and apartment dwellers. It performed better in testing than much larger, more expensive competitors, delivering near-perfect results for a variety of foods. It's also quiet, perfectly non-stick for easy cleanup, and has a simple interface. However, it only has four modes and a limited capacity.

Instant Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer

For those who cook for large groups, this air fryer offers excellent performance and a great price. It produced great results in testing and was very easy to operate, with a clear display and good instructions. It has a large capacity, with trays and a rotisserie insert, and all parts are easy to clean.

Typhur Dome

This unique, bubble-shaped air fryer has Wi-Fi capability, allowing you to select recipes and control cooking from your phone. It's also very quiet and fast, and has an auto-cleaning mode. However, it is extremely expensive, especially given its moderate capacity.

Instant Omni Plus Air Fryer Toaster Oven

This extra-large toaster oven and air fryer has a huge capacity and powerful wattage, and can bake, broil, air fry, and dehydrate. It can fit a 12-inch pizza, a whole chicken, or a 9x13-inch baking dish. It's very consistent and has an easy-to-use interface. However, it's quite expensive and may be more than what a small household needs.

So, whether you're looking for a small, compact air fryer or a versatile appliance with a large capacity, there are stainless steel options available to suit your needs.

What are the benefits of stainless steel air fryers?

Stainless steel air fryers are a great option for health-conscious cooks. Here are some of the benefits of choosing a stainless steel air fryer over a traditional air fryer:

Non-Toxic

Air fryers are often made with non-stick coatings like Teflon, which can contain harmful chemicals known as PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances). These chemicals can build up in the human body and the environment and have been associated with potential health risks, including birth defects and cancer. Stainless steel air fryers are free from these toxic chemicals, offering a safer alternative.

Healthier Cooking

Stainless steel air fryers provide a healthier way to cook your favourite fried foods. They produce food with a similar taste and texture to traditional frying but with much lower levels of fat. This makes them a great choice for those looking to reduce their fat intake and promote weight loss without sacrificing taste.

Easy to Clean

Stainless steel is known for its durability and ease of maintenance. Stainless steel air fryers are often dishwasher-safe, making cleanup a breeze. Their non-stick properties also mean you won't have to scrub off stuck-on food residue.

Attractive Design

In addition to their health and safety benefits, stainless steel air fryers often boast a stylish, attractive design. They typically have a sleek, metallic finish that can jazz up your kitchen counter and complement your other appliances.

Versatility

Like traditional air fryers, stainless steel air fryers are versatile kitchen appliances. They can roast, grill, bake, and perform many other cooking functions in addition to air frying. This makes them a valuable addition to any kitchen, especially for those who want to simplify their cooking routine.

Safety

Stainless steel air fryers offer a safer alternative to traditional deep fat fryers. There is no large pool of hot oil that can spill or splash, reducing the risk of scalding accidents. This makes them a safer option, especially for those with children or pets.

How do stainless steel air fryers compare to other types?

Stainless steel air fryers are marketed as a safer alternative to non-stick air fryers, which can release harmful toxins when heated. Stainless steel baskets are also easier to clean and allow food to release more easily.

Stainless steel air fryers are available in a variety of sizes, from compact options to large-capacity air fryers that can fit an entire chicken. They also come in different styles, such as solid, upright units with pull-out basket drawers, or ones that resemble toaster ovens with glass doors.

Cuisinart AFR-25 Air Fryer Oven vs. Gourmia 16-in-1 Digital Stainless Steel Air Fryer Oven

Both the Cuisinart and Gourmia stainless steel air fryers have adjustable temperature dials and dishwasher-safe parts. The Cuisinart model has a shallow basket that can fit up to 2.5 pounds of food, while the Gourmia model has a similar-sized basket that can fit up to a 4-pound chicken. The Gourmia air fryer offers more preset functions (16) compared to the Cuisinart (1), and it also has a glass door to monitor the food while cooking.

COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer vs. Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer

The COSORI TurboBlaze Air Fryer is a compact and powerful machine with lots of functions, including a special mode for cooking frozen foods. It has a 6-quart capacity and is easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe parts. However, it struggles to achieve the same level of crispness as other air fryers. The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer, on the other hand, is a combination toaster oven and air fryer with smart sensors and heating elements. It has a large capacity of 23.9 quarts and includes a clear viewing window. While the Breville model offers more functions and a bigger size, it is also more expensive and takes up more counter space.

Ninja 4-Quart Air Fryer vs. Ninja DZ071 Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer

The Ninja 4-Quart Air Fryer is a small, powerful, and quiet air fryer that delivers excellent cooking results. It has a compact footprint, making it easy to store, and includes non-stick parts for easy cleanup. In comparison, the Ninja DZ071 Foodi FlexBasket Air Fryer is a dual-zone air fryer that allows you to cook two different items at different temperatures simultaneously. It has a larger capacity of 7 quarts but lacks temperature control accuracy.

Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer vs. Typhur Dome

The Instant Pot Vortex Plus 10-Quart Air Fryer is a large-capacity air fryer that offers great performance and versatility at an attractive price. It includes trays and a rotisserie insert, and its parts are easy to clean. The Typhur Dome, on the other hand, is a unique-looking air fryer with Wi-Fi capability and a powerful fan that makes it quieter and faster. It has a moderate capacity of 5.6 quarts and is quite expensive.

In summary, stainless steel air fryers offer a safer and easier-to-clean alternative to non-stick air fryers. They come in various sizes and styles to suit different needs and preferences. When choosing an air fryer, it's important to consider factors such as capacity, functions, ease of use and cleanup, temperature control, and price.

Frequently asked questions