Set it and forget it.
That’s the ethos for these programmable air fryers. An absolute game-changer in 2024, these slick gadgets allow users to effortlessly cook healthy foods.
It’s like having the device do the thinking for us.
Types of Programmable Features
What makes these air fryers so smart? Let’s go down to the specifics:
Preset Cooking Programs
The majority of programmable air fryers have between 12 and 15 preset programs.
Consider hiring a personal chef who is skilled at preparing your favorite meals.
Your air fryer can handle every task for you with just a single button push.
Customizable Settings
Not a fan of presets? No worries.
These air fryers give you the leeway for customization.
You don’t need to follow the settings to a tee.
It’s perfect for experimentation or follow a specific recipe.
WiFi Connectivity
Control your air fryer from your couch. The future is indeed now.
WiFi allows you to connect those air fryers connect to your home network.
Mobile App Integration
Got a smartphone? Then you’ve got an air fryer control panel in your pocket.
Apps like those from Ninja and Philips let you start cooking, adjust settings, and even access recipes.
It’s like having a cookbook and remote control in one.
Voice Control Capabilities
“Hey Google, start the air fryer.”
Voice-activated air fryers are for real.
And they’re making cooking hands-free and more accessible than ever.
Top Programmable Air Fryer Models
I’ve tested a bunch, and here’s what I’ve found:
Comparison of Features
With their intelligent air fryers, Ninja is the industry leader, providing an excellent mix of functionality and design.
Not far behind are Philips, whose air fryers have some of the most sophisticated preset programs.
Cosori impresses with their WiFi capabilities and user-friendly mobile app.
Price Ranges
For about £100, you can get a good programmable air fryer.
But if you want all the bells and whistles, be prepared to fork out up to £300.
Tech-savvy home cooks find it to be well worth the money, a good investment to say the least.
User Reviews and Ratings
Consumer Reports rates a number of programmable models highly.
The ability to remotely manage their air fryers and the simplicity of preset programs are highly praised by users.
Some claim it has completely altered the way they cook.
How to Choose the Right Programmable Air Fryer
Picking the perfect air fryer doesn’t have to be a headache. Here’s what to consider:
Consider Your Cooking Needs
Are you a set-it-and-forget-it type? Look for models with robust preset programs.
Love to experiment? Prioritize customizable settings and temperature control.
Evaluate Available Features
WiFi connectivity is great if you’re always on your phone.
Voice control might be a game-changer if you’re often multitasking in the kitchen.
Think about which features you’ll actually use before splurging on the fanciest model.
Compare Brands and Models
Don’t just go for the biggest name.
Check out what each brand offers in terms of app support, warranty, and customer service.
Remember, the best air fryer is the one that fits your lifestyle.
Programmable air fryers are more than just a trend – they’re revolutionizing home cooking with smart, convenient features.
Tips for Using Programmable Air Fryer Options
Now that you’ve got your shiny new programmable air fryer, let’s make sure you’re getting the most out of it.
Maximizing Preset Programs
Preset programs are your new best friend. They’re designed by culinary experts to take the guesswork out of cooking.
• Start with the basics: Use the chicken, fish, or vegetable presets to get a feel for how your air fryer works.
• Experiment with different foods: Try the preset for french fries with sweet potato fries or the chicken preset with pork chops.
• Fine-tune as needed: If you find a preset is consistently under or overcooking, don’t be afraid to adjust the time slightly.
Pro tip: Chef George Purton suggests, “Always check your food a minute or two before the preset time is up. Air fryers can vary, and it’s better to add time than to overcook.”
Creating Custom Settings
Custom settings are where your air fryer truly becomes yours.
• Start with a recipe: Use a trusted air fryer recipe as a base, then tweak the temperature and time to your liking.
• Keep notes: Jot down successful combinations of time, temperature, and food quantity for easy replication.
• Save your favourites: Many models allow you to save custom settings for quick access later.
“Cooking is about confidence,” celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay says. That’s why don’t be afraid to trust your gut and adjust settings depending to your taste.
Utilizing Mobile Apps for Recipes and Control
Your air fryer’s mobile app is a powerful tool. Here’s how to make the most of it:
• Explore the recipe database: Many apps come with curated recipes specifically for your air fryer model.
• Use remote start features: Preheat your air fryer on your way home from work for faster dinner prep.
• Monitor cooking progress: Check on your meal without opening the air fryer and losing heat.
• Update your air fryer: Some apps allow you to update your air fryer’s firmware, potentially adding new features or improving performance.
Emeril Lagasse stressed the importance of exploring new recipes: “The air fryer isn’t just for reheating leftovers. Get creative and try new things!”
Conclusion
Recap of Benefits
Programmable air fryers have truly transformed home cooking:
• They save time with preset programs and remote control options.
• They promote healthier eating by making it easy to cook with less oil.
• They offer consistency in cooking results, taking the guesswork out of meal prep.
• They provide a fun, tech-savvy way to engage with cooking.
Future of Programmable Air Fryer Technology
The future looks bright (and crispy) for air fryer technology. We’re likely to see:
• More integration with smart home systems
• Advanced AI that learns your cooking preferences
• Expanded recipe databases with weekly meal planning features
• Improved energy efficiency and cooking speed
A whopping 75% of air fryers sold are now programmable as of September 2024. That just shows how popular these smart cooking devices have become. There’s a setting for almost every meal with an average of 12-15 preset cooking programs in each model.
Ninja is still the market forerunner in programmable air fryer sales. But that doesn’t mean the others can’t catch up.
The next years will be interesting to see the next innovations in the world of air fryers.
