The Full Truth Every Kenyan Needs to Know!
Now that the air fryer hype has cooled down a bit, let’s talk real! If you’re reading this, you’re probably not here to just join the “I own an air fryer” wave, right? You want to know what’s really behind those ads and social media hype. You’re probably asking: “Is it worth it?” “Is it as magical as they claim?” Good news, you’re in the right place! This article will give you reviews of what sellers rarely tell you about air fryers, along with some tips and a few personal insights to make sure you know what you’re getting into. Ready? Let’s dive in!
1. It Doesn’t Actually Fry Your Food
Let’s clear this up once and for all: Air fryers don’t fry food. They’re more like tiny convection ovens that blow hot air around to give food a crispy layer, kind of like baking or roasting. If you’re picturing deep-fried samosas without the oil mess, cool down your expectations. Dont get me wrong they will have fried like texture, however it really fry food like deep frying does. The taste is great, especially if you don’t want to taste oil while you eat your samosas or fries.
2. Air Fryers Aren’t Just for “Frying”
The term “air fryer” makes it sound like it’s strictly a fryer, but the truth is, this device does more than give you crunchy fries. Air fryers are mini-convection ovens, meaning they use hot air circulation to cook food evenly. This opens up a world of possibilities beyond just “frying.” You can roast vegetables, bake small cakes, make muffins, or even reheat leftovers without turning them soggy.
3. Capacity Isn’t Always What It Seems
Some air fryers look big on the outside but have a surprisingly small cooking basket. Many Kenyans have big families, and it can be frustrating to discover you can only make a few pieces of chicken at a time. The cooking basket might be great for a single person or a small household, but for larger families, it’s another story. However, we now get to see more airfryers with bigger capacity. If you’re cooking for a crowd or you have a large family, look for models that are clearly labeled “XL” or “family size” and make sure the basket can hold at least 5 liters.
4. They’re Not as Fast as Advertised
Sellers boast that air fryers cook food faster than ovens, but this isn’t entirely accurate. While they’re quick for small batches, cooking in multiple batches takes time – and if you’re preparing something like nyama choma or chips for more than two people, you’ll need some patience. Factor in preheating time, too! Therefore if you’re in a hurry, consider cooking smaller portions or sticking to faster-cooking foods like vegetables and fish.
5. Cleaning Can Be a Chore
Cleaning your air fryer isn’t always a one-wipe job. Even if some parts are dishwasher safe, food crumbs and grease can get stuck in the crevices. Also, if you’ve tried cooking nyama with seasoning, you’ll notice stains that are a pain to scrub out. Make sure to line the air fryer basket with aluminum foil or parchment paper for messier foods. This way, you save yourself some serious scrubbing.
6. The Smell Lingers
After cooking certain foods, especially fish, your air fryer can hold onto smells. And when you’re in the mood for chips, you don’t want yesterday’s fish aroma joining the party. Therefore clean the basket thoroughly after each use. For stubborn odors, try placing lemon slices in the basket and running the air fryer on low heat for a few minutes. It will then be clean as new.
7. Not All Foods Work Well in an Air Fryer
Air fryers are amazing for fries, veggies, chicken, and small pastries, but not every food item is a good match. Batter-based foods, like mandazi or bhajias, can be tricky because they tend to drip and make a mess. The same goes for certain delicate baked items – they may not cook as evenly as they would in an oven. However, don’t be scared to experiment with different foods but always read the manual and stick to recommended recipes until you get the hang of it.
8. They Can Be Bulky and Take Up Counter Space
The average air fryer takes up a surprising amount of counter space. They’re often tall and wide, which might be tricky in a smaller Kenyan kitchen. This can be especially frustrating if you’re already juggling a microwave, blender, and maybe even a slow cooker. Therefore measure your kitchen counter space before you buy, and consider a model that’s more compact if you’re short on space.
9. Electricity Costs Add Up
Air fryers are relatively energy-efficient, but they still draw power. If you’re using it daily or for longer cooking times, you might see a small increase in your monthly electricity bill. This is especially true if you’re preparing foods in multiple batches. Use the air fryer for quick meals and try to prepare larger portions in one go, so you’re not using it repeatedly throughout the day.
10. There’s a Learning Curve
Most sellers make air fryers look effortless to use, but the truth is, there’s a bit of trial and error involved. Finding the right cooking times and temperatures, learning what works and what doesn’t – it takes some patience. Many new owners end up with a few overcooked or undercooked meals at first. Don’t get discouraged! Start with simple recipes, and once you get the hang of it, you’ll be able to adapt your favorite recipes to the air fryer. Here is a link to some of the best cooking times and temperatures you will need to cook your food in an Airyer.
11. Air Fryers Can Be Noisy
If you’re sensitive to noise, brace yourself. Air fryers sound like a mini engine revving in your kitchen. Sellers don’t usually advertise that part, but it’s an important detail if you like a peaceful kitchen. Try placing the air fryer on a rubber mat to reduce vibration noise. It won’t be silent, but it’ll be easier on your ears.
Personal Thoughts
I have to say, air fryers do have their charm. They make certain meals incredibly convenient, and they’re great for cutting down on oil. However, the picture the sellers paint is a bit too hyped. Air fryers are not perfect – they have limitations, and they require a bit of experimenting. But, if you’re willing to look past the hype and accept that it won’t replace a deep fryer or an oven, it’s a valuable tool to have in the kitchen.
So, should you buy an air fryer? That depends on your needs and expectations. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to frying with minimal oil, an air fryer can definitely be a good investment. However, go into it with realistic expectations – it’s a great tool, but it’s not the miracle machine some ads make it out to be. At the end of the day, it’s about finding what works for you, whether you’re cooking chips, roasting veggies, or trying out something new!