Since the 1940s, convection ovens have been used to quickly prepare meals. Today’s countertop air fryer is a version of the convection oven. The name is a bit misleading – the food is not actually fried. It is cooked in such a way that browning and crispiness are promoted due to forced air, giving you that fried food feel, but without being deep fried in oil. If you have been craving crispy “fried” treats but are committed to a healthier lifestyle, use an air fryer to make these classic favourites.
“Fried” Chicken
Food Network is just one of the sites online where you can find air fryer “fried” chicken recipes. Theirs calls for the classic buttermilk dredge and uses bone-in, skin on chicken thighs. A light olive oil spray helps the thighs get even more crispy and golden brown. Food Network Kitchen’s Air Fryer Chicken takes about 27 minutes per batch.
“Fried” Green Tomatoes
It’s the name of a great movie, as well as a delicious, vegetarian side dish. For a great recipe for fried green tomatoes, look no further than Cindy Gordon’s Vegetarian Mama website. As with many recipe sites online, this one does include a long preamble. However, the intro contains some great tips and links to similar dishes. It’s worth the read. Or, you can skip quickly to the ingredient list by clicking the “jump to recipe” button. Once there you will see that all you need are two large green tomatoes, panko, cornmeal, eggs and an oil spray to make this delicious dish.
“Fried” Donuts
Can’t imagine donuts without the sizzle of a deep fryer? It is possible! Plated Cravings’ air fryer donut recipe has more than 300 five-star reviews. This recipe is for a yeasted dough, so there is more prep work involved along with time for the dough to rise. You’ll also need cutters (round cookie cutters or a glass and shot glass will do) to get that classic shape and punch out the hole. However, the instructions are easy to follow, and the results mean not having to give up the donuts you love when you give up deep fried foods.
An Air Fryer Can Change the Way You Eat
We love fried foods because of that delicious crispy crunch and deep golden colour. If you are making healthy lifestyle changes but are not ready to give up the fried foods you love, make the switch easy by investing in an air fryer.
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