The best air fryers vs deep fryers to buy in 2022 and what foods to cook in them

Roast potatoes

Cut floury potatoes into chunks and parboil then shake them; allow to dry and drizzle with a little oil. Air-fry for about 25 minutes on the highest setting, turning twice, until golden and crisp.

Leftovers

As long as they don’t have lots of sauce, leftovers are often better reheated in the air fryer than the microwave. They’ll regain their crisp edges rather than going soggy.

Risotto

If you have an air fryer with a paddle, like the Tefal ActiFry or the De’Longhi MultiFry, it will have a solid base rather than a rack, meaning you can cook more liquid food, including a proper stirred risotto.

Fish

The small space means it won’t dry out and smells are limited. Rub lightly with oil or pané with breadcrumbs and air-fry until crisp and golden.

Chicken

Gets crisp and stays juicy, though it’s worth checking with a digital thermometer that it has reached 74C before eating. Rub with the seasoning of your choice and bake for nine or 10 minutes per side.

Roasted root vegetables

Cut into chunks, toss in oil, salt and smoked paprika, and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Add chunks of onion or leek after 10 minutes, as these darken quickly.

Kale chips

Spray trimmed leaves with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Lay in a single layer and cook for four or five minutes at 190C, shaking the pan after two minutes. Cool and crisp on a rack as you cook another batch.

What foods won’t cook well in an air fryer?

Deep-fried foods 

You can make good ‘oven-baked’ versions, but don’t expect dishes to have the thick crust or unctuous quality of food dunked in hot oil.

Battered foods 

Wet batters will drip off before they have a chance to set.

Cheese

Fresh cheese will slide around, so even within a toastie you need to weigh it down, hold in place with a toothpick or use frozen slices.

Doughnuts and churros

You can bake a bready dough in some air fryers, but runny doughs and churros are a non-starter.

Leafy greens 

Spinach and chard tend to turn to mush.

Best air fryers to cook food in 2022

The multicooker

Foodi 7-in-1 Multi-Cooker, £199.99, Ninja