Guide on how does an air fryer work

Published Jun 18, 2025 3 Min Read

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Understanding the functionality of an air fryer

An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food, mimicking the effects of deep frying but with significantly less oil. Instead of submerging food in oil, the air fryer blows heated air around the ingredients placed in a perforated basket, creating a convection effect that crisps and browns the exterior.

The process relies on high-speed air movement and precise temperature control, typically reaching 320°F or higher, to trigger the Maillard reaction, which enhances flavor and texture. This method allows users to prepare crispy fries, chicken, and other dishes with minimal oil while maintaining a delicious crunch.

The science behind air frying- Convection cooking explained

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of the science behind air frying and how convection cooking works:

1. Rapid air circulation

Air fryers use high-speed fans to circulate hot air around the food.
This creates a convection effect, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.

2. Heat transfer mechanisms

Conduction: Heat transfers through direct contact with the food.
Convection: Hot air moves around the food, cooking it evenly.
Radiation: Some air fryers use infrared heating for faster cooking.

3. The Maillard Reaction

The high temperature (typically 300°F to 400°F) triggers the Maillard reaction.
This reaction browns food, enhancing flavor and texture.

4. Oil usage and crispiness

Unlike deep frying, air fryers use minimal oil—sometimes just a spray.
The hot air crisps the food’s surface, mimicking traditional frying.

5. Cooking efficiency

Air fryers cook faster than ovens, reducing cooking time by 30-40%.
The compact design ensures heat is retained, making cooking more efficient.

6. Health benefits

Air frying reduces fat content compared to deep frying.
It helps retain nutrients in food due to shorter cooking times.

Also read: Air fryers under Rs. 15,000

Key components of an air fryer

An air fryer consists of several key components that work together to cook food efficiently using hot air circulation. Here are the main parts:

1. Heating element

Generates heat to cook food.
Usually located at the top of the air fryer.

2. Fan

Circulates hot air around the food for even cooking.
Helps achieve a crispy texture.

3. Cooking basket

Holds the food during cooking.
Designed with perforations to allow airflow.

4. Control panel

Allows users to set temperature and cooking time.
Some models feature preset cooking modes.

5. Outer housing

Protects internal components.
Made from heat-resistant materials.

6. Drip tray

Collects excess oil and food particles.
Helps maintain cleanliness.

7. Air vents

Regulate airflow and prevent overheating.
Ensure proper ventilation.

Also read: Air fryers under Rs. 10,000

Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how an air fryer cooks your food:

1. Preheating the Air Fryer

Some models require preheating for a few minutes to reach the desired temperature.
This ensures even cooking and a crispy texture.

2. Hot air circulation

The heating element generates heat, while a high-speed fan circulates hot air.
This creates a convection effect, cooking food evenly.

3. Cooking process

Food is placed in a perforated basket, allowing air to flow around it.
The Maillard reaction occurs, browning and crisping the food.

4. Oil usage

Unlike deep frying, air fryers use minimal oil—sometimes just a spray.
The hot air mimics frying, creating a crunchy texture.

5. Midway adjustments

Some foods require shaking or flipping halfway through cooking.
This ensures uniform crispiness.

6. Completion and cooling

Once the timer ends, food is ready to serve.
Let it cool for a few minutes before enjoying.

For more budget-friendly options, check out air fryers under Rs. 5,000 and air fryers under Rs. 3,000.

Air fryer vs traditional frying: What is the difference

Feature	Air frying	Traditional frying
Cooking method	Uses hot air circulation to cook food	Submerges food in hot oil for frying
Oil usage	Requires little to no oil	Uses large amounts of oil
Health benefits	Lower fat content, fewer calories	Higher fat content, more calories
Texture	Crispy but slightly different from deep frying	Crispy and rich due to oil absorption
Cooking time	Faster due to rapid air circulation	Slower, requires oil heating
Safety	Safer, no risk of oil splatters	Risk of burns from hot oil
Ease of cleaning	Easier, minimal oil residue	Messy, requires oil disposal
Taste	Lighter flavor, depends on seasoning	Richer taste due to oil infusion
Versatility	Can bake, roast, and grill	Primarily used for deep frying

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Frequently asked questions

Can I buy an air fryer on EMI?

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What is the working principle of an air fryer?

An air fryer cooks food using rapid hot air circulation, creating a crispy texture with minimal oil. The heating element generates heat, while a high-speed fan distributes hot air evenly around the food in a perforated basket. This process triggers the Maillard reaction, enhancing browning and flavor. Unlike deep frying, air frying reduces fat content while maintaining crunchiness.

Do air fryers actually fry food?

Despite their name, air fryers do not actually fry food in the traditional sense. Instead of submerging food in hot oil, they use rapid hot air circulation to cook and crisp food, similar to a convection oven. The high-speed air movement creates a crunchy texture, mimicking deep frying but with significantly less oil. While air-fried foods can achieve a crispy exterior, they may not have the exact richness and texture of deep-fried foods.

How does hot air create a crispy texture in an air fryer?

An air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food, creating a crispy texture similar to deep frying but with minimal oil. The heating element generates heat, while a high-speed fan distributes hot air evenly around the food. This process triggers the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between proteins and sugars that enhances browning and crispiness. Additionally, the drying effect of the circulating air removes moisture from the food’s surface, resulting in a crunchy exterior.

Is there any oil used in an air fryer?

Yes, air fryers use a small amount of oil, but far less than traditional deep frying. Instead of submerging food in oil, air fryers rely on hot air circulation to cook and crisp food. Typically, 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil are used, either sprayed or brushed onto the food to enhance texture and flavor. Some foods, like frozen fries or breaded items, may already contain oil and don’t require additional oil.

Do air fryers cook faster than ovens?

Yes, air fryers generally cook faster than ovens due to their rapid hot air circulation and compact design. Unlike conventional ovens, which take 10-15 minutes to preheat, air fryers require only 1-3 minutes, allowing food to start cooking sooner.

Additionally, air fryers reduce cooking time by 20-30% compared to ovens. For example, frozen French fries take 15-20 minutes in an air fryer but 25-30 minutes in an oven. The high-speed fan ensures even heat distribution, leading to crispy results in less time.

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Bajaj Air Fryers - Prices in India

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How does an air fryer work

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