Airfryers: The Case For (yet) Another Kitchen Gadget
There seem to be new kitchen gadgets every week, but which ones are useful and won’t just take up cabinet space? The air fryer is a countertop device that works like a small convection oven. By circulating heated air, the air fryer decreases the need for cooking oil while still producing foods with a crispy outside. This means you can cook anything from chicken to sweet potatoes with this one device.
Deep fried foods are cooked by being submerged in hot oil, while foods cooked in an air fryer only require non-stick spray or no oil at all. When compared to deep-frying food, air frying decreases total fat intake and may also decrease trans-fat intake. This means it is a healthy way to try some new vegetables that are in season such as carrots, broccoli and parsnips.
Additional benefits include faster prep time as there is no need to pre-heat. Just drop in food in and start. You can get an air fryer in a variety of sizes and price-points, making it an excellent addition to your kitchen.
Already have an air fryer but don’t know where to start? Try this simple recipe for roasted carrots:
Lightly spray the surface with cooking spray
Use baby carrots or peel and cut carrots in ¼” slices
Toss with pepper or desired seasoning (if you’re feeling adventurous, try paprika or garlic powder)
Add enough carrots to cover the bottom of your air fryer, leaving room for air to circulate
Cook at 400 for 20-22 minutes, shaking or flipping after 10 minutes
Voila! A delicious and easy side dish!