Deep frying can take two forms. Classic deep fryers cook food submerged in oil – with the typical taste and texture we know from restaurants. Air fryers use hot air circulation and achieve a similar effect with minimal fat and no unpleasant odours.
How to choose a deep fryer? An overview of types, features, and tips for making the right choice
Quality Deep Fryers
What is the difference between them?
Air Fryer vs. Oil Deep Fryer
Air Fryer
It works on the principle of hot air circulation, which prepares food with a minimum of fat – often just a few drops of oil or none at all. The result is a lighter version of popular fried foods that is kinder to your health and kitchen.
- Healthier preparation, easier cleaning, more functions (e.g. baking, grilling, heating).
- The texture and taste may be slightly 'lighter' – less pronounced than with traditional frying.
Oil deep fryer
The traditional method of frying food submerged in hot oil. This method ensures a typical crispy crust and full flavour that you are used to from restaurants or food stands.
- Authentic taste and texture, perfectly crispy result.
- Higher oil consumption, more complex cleaning, the need to change the oil regularly, and also a higher fat content in dishes.
What to consider when choosing a deep fryer?
Deep fryer size
Families most often choose deep fryers with a volume of 3–4 litres, which can prepare enough portions at once.
If you are cooking for more people, it is worth reaching for a larger model with a volume of 5 litres or more – especially for air deep fryers, where it is important to have enough space for even cooking.
If you are cooking for more people, it is worth reaching for a larger model with a volume of 5 litres or more – especially for air deep fryers, where it is important to have enough space for even cooking.
Power consumption (performance)
It's simple - the higher the power, the faster the heating, and therefore the shorter the preparation time.
The typical range is 1200–2000 W, or more for large deep fryers.
The typical range is 1200–2000 W, or more for large deep fryers.
Controls and programmes
Most deep fryers offer clear digital controls with a touch screen display and practical pre-set programmes for specific foods – simply select the programme and the deep fryer automatically sets the optimum time and temperature.
Some models also allow connection to a mobile app, where you can find more recipes, tips and remote control options.
Some models also allow connection to a mobile app, where you can find more recipes, tips and remote control options.
Extra features
Consider whether you would appreciate these options:
- timer,
- Temperature maintenance,
- Overheating protection,
- Transparent lid,
- Automatic stirring.
Ease of cleaning
Easy cleaning is a great advantage when choosing a deep fryer. Models with a removable basket and other parts that you can safely wash in the dishwasher save you time and effort.
With air fryers, you'll also appreciate that you can use a minimum of oil when preparing food – this means they get less dirty and generally require less maintenance than classic deep fat fryers.
With air fryers, you'll also appreciate that you can use a minimum of oil when preparing food – this means they get less dirty and generally require less maintenance than classic deep fat fryers.
Size and design
Consider how much space you have available on your kitchen counter or in your cupboard.- Compact models are easy to store and are also suitable for smaller kitchens.
- Larger fryers – often multi-functional appliances with more programmes or two baskets – take up more space, but offer a wider range of cooking options.
Our tip
Read also
Pressure cooker - another great helper for quick cooking?
Saving time and energy – these are the two main reasons to buy a pressure cooker. In reality, there are many more...
Top air fryer brands you can rely on
When choosing an air fryer, it pays to go for a trusted brand that offers quality, reliability and well-thought-out features.
Tefal is a leading brand of air fryers – their models score highly for their modern design, smart programmes and focus on healthier cooking.
Severin is a great choice for anyone looking for solid performance at a reasonable price – offering both compact and family models with simple controls and good features.
And if you want to make air fryer cooking even more enjoyable, Lékué offers practical silicone moulds that make preparation and cleaning easier, and are especially suitable for air fryers.
Tefal is a leading brand of air fryers – their models score highly for their modern design, smart programmes and focus on healthier cooking.
Severin is a great choice for anyone looking for solid performance at a reasonable price – offering both compact and family models with simple controls and good features.
And if you want to make air fryer cooking even more enjoyable, Lékué offers practical silicone moulds that make preparation and cleaning easier, and are especially suitable for air fryers.
FAQ
Most frequently asked questions
Is an air fryer really healthier than a traditional fryer?
Yes, because food is prepared with minimal fat or no oil at all. The result is a lighter dish with a lower calorie and fat content, although the taste and texture will be slightly different from traditional frying.
How much oil do I need for an air fryer?
Usually, just a few drops of oil are enough – for example, when preparing potatoes for the third time. Some foods don't need any oil at all.
How much electricity does a deep fryer use?
It depends on the power (input) and cooking time. Typical consumption ranges from 1.2–2 kWh per hour of operation, but thanks to the fast preparation, the overall costs are low.
Does the oil in a deep fryer need to be changed regularly?
Yes, with oil deep fryers, the oil needs to be changed regularly to prevent burning and deterioration of the taste and health safety of the food. It is recommended after several uses, depending on the type of food.
Can an air fryer replace an oven?
For smaller portions and simple meals, often yes – it's faster, more energy-efficient and easier to clean. For larger baking tasks, a conventional oven is still more suitable.