Fryer Face-Off: Who Makes The Perfect Chips?

Whether you're a chip connoisseur or just partial to the occasional crispy treat, finding the right fryer can be a challenge. There are a few things to consider when choosing a fryer. Firstly, what type of fryer are you looking for? Deep-fat fryers and air fryers are the two main options, and each has its pros and cons. Deep-fat fryers use a large container of oil to cook food at very high temperatures, resulting in that classic crunchy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture. Air fryers, on the other hand, use hot air and little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to deep-fat fryers.

If you're after that traditional chip shop taste and texture, a deep-fat fryer might be the way to go. The Swan SD6040N 3-litre stainless steel fryer, for example, delivers superb results, with evenly cooked chips that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The Breville VDF108-01 is another great option, known for its easy maintenance and impressive cooking capabilities.

However, if you're looking for a healthier option or something more versatile, an air fryer might be a better choice. Air fryers are more energy-efficient than ovens, especially for smaller portions, and can be used for baking, roasting, and grilling in addition to frying. The Ninja Foodi multi-cooker and the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Multi-Use Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer are two highly-rated options, both scoring a perfect 100% in chip cooking performance tests. The Ninja Double Stack XL SL400UK Air Fryer is another excellent choice, with its unique stackable design and ability to cook two layers of ingredients simultaneously.

So, which fryer makes the best chips? It really depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you're after that classic deep-fried taste and texture, a deep-fat fryer is the way to go. But if you're looking for a healthier, more versatile option, an air fryer might be a better choice.

Air fryer vs deep-fat fryer

The Pros and Cons

Deep-fat fryers and air fryers are both great options for making fast, fluffy, and crispy fries, but there are some key differences between the two. Deep-fat fryers are the classic option, delivering that familiar taste and texture, while air fryers are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and health benefits. Here are some of the pros and cons of each:

Deep-Fat Fryer

Pros:

• Deep-fat fryers give you that classic, crunchy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside texture that is hard to replicate with other cooking methods.
• They are generally cheaper than air fryers.
• They are straightforward to use and can cook larger batches of food.
• They are perfect for cooking battered foods like churros, doughnuts, and tempura.

Cons:

• Deep-fat fryers use a lot of oil, which can be messy and expensive over time.
• They require more maintenance and can be dangerous if not used properly.
• The clean-up process is more involved and time-consuming.
• They are less versatile than air fryers and have only one function.

Air Fryer

Pros:

• Air fryers use little to no oil, making them a healthier option.
• They are easy to clean, with most parts being dishwasher-safe.
• They are more versatile and can be used for cooking a wide range of foods, from chicken to vegetables.
• They are safer to use than deep-fat fryers since they don't involve large containers of hot oil.
• They are more compact and easier to store.

Cons:

• Air fryers are typically more expensive than deep-fat fryers.
• They may not deliver the same level of crispiness as deep-fat fryers, especially with battered foods.
• They take longer to cook food, and the results may be less complex in texture.

The Taste Test

When it comes to the taste test, opinions vary. Some people prefer the deep-fried potatoes for their crispiness and fluffiness, while others favour the air-fried potatoes for their flavour. The deep-fried potatoes had a more even colour and a classic french-fry texture. However, the air-fried potatoes had a more caramelized taste as the potatoes cooked with the seasoning and flavour.

Price

Deep-fat fryers are usually cheaper upfront, with some options available for as low as $25. On the other hand, air fryers can range from $100 at the entry level and go up from there. However, air fryers often go on sale, and they can be used for multiple cooking functions, making them a more versatile option.

Final Verdict

Both options have their pros and cons, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you are looking for that classic, crispy, and fluffy texture for your fries or want to cook battered foods, a deep-fat fryer might be the way to go. However, if you prioritize convenience, ease of cleaning, versatility, and a healthier option, an air fryer might be the better choice. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide which fryer makes the best chips according to your taste preferences and cooking needs!

Best air fryer for chips

If you're looking for an air fryer to cook the perfect chips, you might want to consider the following options:

COSORI Lite Air Fryer

The COSORI Lite Air Fryer is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. With a 3.8L capacity, it's perfect for couples or small families and will look stylish on your countertop. The fryer features presets for bacon, veggies, steak, fries, chicken, preheat, shake, and keep warm functions. It also comes with a recipe book and access to an app with over 140 recipes. The ThermoIQ Technology automatically detects temperatures during cooking, and the improved air circulation cooks food faster. The main drawback is that the control panel attracts fingerprint marks, and the size might not be suitable for larger families.

Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker

The Ninja Foodi Multi-Cooker is a versatile appliance that can be used as an air fryer, pressure cooker, or slow cooker. It scored 100% in a chip test, delivering perfectly crisp and browned chips with fluffy centres. While it is a more expensive option at $500, it offers excellent value with its multiple functions and superior chip-making capabilities.

Instant Pot Duo Crisp Multi-Use Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer

Another excellent option for chip lovers is the Instant Pot Duo Crisp Multi-Use Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer. This appliance also scored 100% in the chip test, ensuring perfectly cooked chips every time. Priced at $299, it is a more affordable alternative to the Ninja Foodi, offering similar functionality and exceptional chip-cooking performance.

Kmart Anko 3-in-1 Air Fryer Oven

If you're looking for an affordable option that still delivers great results, the Kmart Anko 3-in-1 Air Fryer Oven is a fantastic choice. Priced at just $119, it features a rotating basket accessory and a pre-programmed setting for cooking chips. The rotating basket ensures even cooking and uniform goldenness, resulting in crispy and fluffy chips. This air fryer scored 85% on chip-cooking performance, outperforming some higher-priced models.

When choosing an air fryer for chips, it's important to consider your specific needs. If you have a large family, opt for a larger capacity model or a dual-zone air fryer that allows you to cook other foods simultaneously. Additionally, always remember to preheat your air fryer, shake the chips during cooking, and avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Best deep-fat fryer for chips

Deep-fat fryers are a great way to make crunchy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside, gastropub-style chips. They are also useful for making other delicacies such as churros, tempura, doughnuts, and onion rings.

Deep-fat fryers are among the more dangerous appliances to use in a domestic kitchen, so it's important to choose one with good safety features. Always read the instruction manual and follow the safety advice carefully, and never leave a deep-fat fryer unattended while it's switched on.

Swan SD6040N 3-litre stainless steel fryer

This classic-style fryer combines excellent heating performance with handy features, including a viewing window and air vent. The chips come out evenly cooked, with a perfectly balanced taste and texture: crispy skins with a hint of chewiness, and dense, fluffy insides.

Maxima 8-litre electric fryer with faucet

Although this fryer is technically a commercial fryer, it's a great option for home use if you're looking to cook large batches of chips in one go. It gets up to temperature quickly and reliably, and produces evenly cooked and delicious chips.

Breville VDF108-01 easy clean digital deep-fat fryer

The Breville VDF108-01 is easy to use and cooks chips and other foods beautifully. The only drawback is that the thermostat is a little unreliable. It has a cooking capacity of 1kg, which is a little low relative to the size of the appliance.

Cookworks XJ-10302 semi-professional fryer

With excellent heating performance and a simple, classic design, this fryer is a great choice for those who prioritise frying power. It heats up quickly and accurately, and produces pretty evenly cooked chips.

Russell Hobbs 24580 digital deep fryer

This fryer is a powerhouse, capable of cooking family-sized portions at temperatures from 130C-190C. It's easy to set up and feels safe to use, as the sides of the appliance don't get especially hot.

Coopers of Stortford compact mini fryer

This compact mini fryer is a great option for small kitchens. It's easy to set up and cooks chips well, producing a crisp outside and fluffy inside.

Cuisinart CDF-200P1

This fryer has a medium-size capacity and is easy to clean and store. It also features a viewing window so you can monitor your food as it cooks. It has a cool-touch handle, making it safe and easy to add and remove food.

De'Longhi Livenza Dual Zone Easy Clean Deep Fryer

This fryer is a good choice if you're looking for something that's easy to clean. It has a generous capacity and a wide base, ensuring your oil heats evenly. It also features an EasyClean drain system, which makes it quick and mess-free to release and store the oil for later use. Most parts are dishwasher-safe, making the cleaning process faster.

Presto Fry Daddy 4-Cup Electric Deep Fryer

This is a good option for smaller families or those on a budget. It's designed to cook four cups of fries in four cups of oil, reducing the amount of oil needed for deep frying. It has a snap-on lid to prevent spills, and both the inside and outside are non-stick and easy to clean. However, it only has one temperature setting, so it's not suitable for experimentation.

Tefal Oleoclean Pro FR804040

This large 3.5-litre model features a unique cleaning system that rids the used oil of crumbs and other residue after each use. It has a large basket that can accommodate up to 1.2kg of food and a variable temperature dial that goes up to 190˚C, making it suitable for a range of ingredients.

Air fryer health and safety

Air fryers are considered a healthier alternative to deep-fat fryers as they use a fraction of the oil, reducing the risk of heart disease. However, there are some health and safety concerns to be aware of when using an air fryer.

Firstly, while air fryers do not cause cancer, the process of air frying produces compounds called acrylamides, which are "probable" carcinogens. Acrylamide is formed when foods are heated to temperatures above 120°C, and is found in higher levels in foods that are high in carbohydrates, such as potato chips. It is important to note that there is no conclusive evidence linking dietary acrylamide consumption to cancer in humans.

Another health concern is the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the cooking fumes produced by air fryers. PAHs are potential carcinogens that are inhaled and can be linked to lung cancer. However, the exposure to PAHs is reduced in air fryers compared to deep-fat fryers as less oil is used, and cooking fumes are mostly contained within the unit.

In terms of safety, air fryers are considered safer than deep-fat fryers as there is no risk of spilling or splashing hot oil. However, it is important to follow the safety instructions carefully when using any type of fryer. Additionally, air fryers should not be left unattended while switched on, and it is recommended to use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or sunflower oil, rather than olive oil.

Overall, air fryers offer a healthier and safer alternative to deep-fat fryers, but it is important to be aware of the potential health and safety risks associated with their use.

Deep-fat fryer health and safety

Deep-fat fryers are among the more dangerous appliances to use in a domestic kitchen. Here are some health and safety guidelines to follow when using a deep-fat fryer:

• Always read the instruction manual and follow the safety advice carefully.
• Never leave a deep-fat fryer unattended while it is switched on.
• Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or sunflower oil. Olive oil should generally be avoided.
• Keep a kitchen fire extinguisher nearby.
• Make sure the fryer is turned off, away from water sources, and wiped dry before filling it with oil.
• Do not overcrowd the frying basket, as this can cause undercooking, uneven cooking, and overflowing of the oil.
• Do not touch the frying basket or add food while the basket is submerged in oil, as this can cause splattering oil or burns.
• Never leave your fryer unattended, as food can burn and become a fire hazard if left for a few minutes too long.
• Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove food from the oil. Never use plastic, as it can melt in the hot oil.
• Use a clean food thermometer to check the internal temperature of meat, poultry, or seafood.
• Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of frying (1 hour if the temperature is above 90 °F).

Frequently asked questions