How to Use an Air Fryer

An air fryer cooks food by circulating hot air rapidly around it, creating a crisp surface with little or no added oil. Preheating the appliance, selecting the appropriate temperature, and arranging food evenly can help achieve consistent cooking results.

• Most air fryers operate within a temperature range of around 80 degree Celsius to 200 degree Celsius, depending on the model and cooking programme. Lower temperatures suit gentle cooking, while higher settings help brown and crisp food.
• Air frying can use up to 90% less added oil than traditional deep frying, although the actual reduction depends on the food and recipe. A small amount of oil can still be used when needed.
• Food should be arranged without overcrowding the basket so hot air can circulate properly. This helps food cook more evenly and develop a crispier exterior.
• Shaking or turning food during cooking can help achieve more even browning and crispness, especially when preparing chips, vegetables, or smaller food portions.
• Cleaning the basket and removable components after use helps maintain hygiene and appliance performance. Regular cleaning also helps prevent food residue and unwanted odours.

You can also buy a new air fryer on Easy EMIs at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities, including Reliance Digital, Croma, and Vijay Sales.

An air fryer is a convenient kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air rapidly around a cooking basket, creating a crisp and browned texture with little or no added oil. It can be used to prepare a variety of foods, including vegetables, snacks, frozen foods, meat, fish, and baked dishes. Most models include a heating element, fan, temperature controls, timer, and removable basket for convenient cooking and cleaning. Temperature settings commonly range from around 80 degree Celsius to 200 degree Celsius, depending on the model and cooking programme. Air fryers can reduce the need for deep frying, making them useful for households seeking simpler cooking methods with less oil. Their compact design, quick cooking, adjustable settings, and easy-to-clean components make them suitable for regular meal preparation.

If you want to replace your air fryer, visit any of Bajaj Finance's 1.5 lakh partner stores — like Vijay Sales, Croma, Reliance Digital, and more — across 4,000 cities, including Tier 2 cities like Jaipur, Lucknow, Kochi, Bhopal, and more in India. Choose your preferred model, then use the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Bajaj Finance Easy EMI Loan to finance it. Convert the cost into Easy EMIs that suit your monthly budget and enjoy zero down payment on select models — take it home without any upfront payment.

An air fryer is designed to cook food by circulating hot air rapidly around a cooking basket, helping create a crisp and browned exterior with little or no added oil. Most models include a heating element, fan, cooking basket, temperature controls, and a timer. Depending on the model, additional features can include preset programmes, digital displays, touch controls, adjustable temperature settings, and automatic shut-off functions.

• Rapid air circulation: Moves heated air continuously around the food to support even cooking and browning. This circulation also helps create a crisp texture without requiring the food to be immersed in oil.
• Temperature control: Allows the cooking temperature to be adjusted according to the food and recipe. Different temperature settings can be used for gentle reheating, cooking, browning, and crisping.
• Cooking timer: Helps set the required cooking duration and can automatically stop the appliance when the selected time is reached. This makes it easier to follow recipes without continuously monitoring the cooking process.
• Preset programmes: Some models offer dedicated settings for commonly prepared foods such as fries, vegetables, chicken, snacks, and baked items. These programmes can simplify cooking by combining suitable time and temperature settings.
• Removable basket: Makes it easier to place, remove, shake, or turn food during cooking. A removable basket also makes cleaning after each cooking session more convenient.
• Safety features: Depending on the model, features such as automatic shut-off, overheat protection, cool-touch handles, and non-slip feet can support safer everyday operation.

The features can vary between air fryers, so cooking capacity, temperature range, controls, preset programmes, basket design, and safety functions should be considered together when choosing a model.

An air fryer cooks food by circulating hot air at a high speed inside a heated cooking chamber. The heating element warms the air, while the fan moves it around the food placed in the basket. This helps cook the food evenly and creates a crisp, browned surface with much less oil than traditional deep frying.

• Heating element: The heating element generates the heat needed to cook the food. Once the selected temperature is reached, the appliance continues heating the air to maintain a suitable cooking environment
• Rapid air circulation: A built-in fan moves the hot air around the cooking chamber and across the food. This constant circulation helps distribute heat more evenly and supports browning and crisping.
• Cooking basket: The basket keeps the food slightly raised and allows hot air to reach different sides. Keeping some space between food pieces can improve airflow and help them cook more evenly.
• Heat transfer: As hot air moves around the food, heat gradually travels into the food and cooks it from the outside towards the centre. Thicker or larger pieces generally need more time to cook properly.
• Oil requirement: Air fryers do not require food to be submerged in oil. A small amount of oil can be brushed or sprayed onto certain foods to improve browning, crispness, and texture.

The exact cooking time and temperature depend on the food, quantity, size, and air fryer model. Following suitable settings and checking the food during cooking can help achieve better results.

Using an air fryer for the first time is fairly simple, but a few basic steps can make the experience smoother and help the appliance perform properly. Start by cleaning the removable parts, placing the appliance correctly, and checking the manufacturer's instructions. It is also useful to understand the temperature and timer controls before preparing the first meal.

1. Clean the removable parts: Wash the basket and tray with a suitable dishwashing liquid and soft sponge before the first use. This helps remove any dust or residue from packaging and storage.
2. Choose the right spot: Place the air fryer on a stable, flat, heat-resistant surface with enough space around it. Keep the ventilation areas clear so hot air can escape safely.
3. Run an initial cycle: Some manufacturers recommend running the empty air fryer for a short period before cooking. This can help remove any manufacturing odour. Follow the time and temperature specified in the manual.
4. Prepare the food: Cut ingredients into reasonably even pieces and avoid filling the basket too much. Leaving enough space allows hot air to circulate and helps food cook more evenly.
5. Set the controls: Select the temperature and cooking time recommended for the recipe. If the model has preset programmes, these can make it easier to choose suitable settings.
6. Check while cooking: Shake the basket or turn larger pieces when needed. Checking the food towards the end of the cooking time can also help prevent overcooking.
7. Allow it to cool: Once cooking is complete, switch off and unplug the appliance when appropriate, then allow it to cool before cleaning.

Following the manufacturer's instructions during the first use can help users become familiar with the air fryer's controls, cooking behaviour, and cleaning requirements while supporting safe everyday operation.

Air fryer temperature and cooking time depend on the food type, portion size, quantity, and specific model. Most air fryers offer a temperature range of around 80 degree Celsius to 200 degree Celsius. Using the right combination of temperature and time can help food cook evenly while achieving the desired texture without becoming dry or overcooked.

Cooking times should be adjusted according to the food's size and quantity, with smaller portions generally requiring less time. Checking the food towards the end of cooking can help prevent overcooking. The manufacturer's instructions and recipe recommendations should remain the main guide, as cooking performance can vary between air fryer models.

An air fryer can be used for much more than fries and snacks. The circulating hot air makes it suitable for roasting, crisping, reheating, grilling, and baking a range of foods. From vegetables and chicken to frozen snacks and simple baked dishes, an air fryer can be useful for everyday cooking. The exact results depend on the food, its size, moisture content, and the model being used.

Food size, thickness, quantity, and moisture can affect cooking time, so settings may need to be adjusted for different recipes. Checking food towards the end of cooking can help achieve the preferred texture without overcooking.

Using an air fryer correctly can make cooking easier and help achieve evenly cooked, crisp results. Certain habits, such as overcrowding the basket, adding excessive oil, or using unsuitable settings, can affect the food and the appliance's performance. Keeping the basket properly arranged and following the recommended cooking instructions can make everyday air frying more convenient.

• Overfilling the basket: Too much food can restrict hot-air circulation and leave some pieces undercooked while others become browned. Cooking in smaller batches can improve airflow and give food a more even texture.
• Using too much oil: Excess oil can collect at the bottom of the basket, create smoke, and make cleaning more difficult. Most foods need only a light coating when oil is required.
• Skipping preheating: Some recipes benefit from preheating because the food starts cooking at the intended temperature. This can also help achieve better browning and crispness.
• Ignoring cooking times: Different foods require different cooking times based on their size, thickness, and quantity. Checking food towards the end of the recommended time can help prevent burning or undercooking.
• Blocking airflow: Placing the air fryer too close to walls, cabinets, or other appliances can restrict ventilation. Keeping sufficient space around the appliance allows heat to escape properly.
• Using unsuitable cookware: Containers or accessories that are not designed for high temperatures can affect cooking and may damage the appliance. Use only suitable accessories that fit safely inside the basket.

Using the basket correctly, following suitable cooking settings, and maintaining clear ventilation can help deliver better cooking results while supporting safe and reliable everyday operation.

Regular cleaning helps keep an air fryer hygienic, reduces food and grease build-up, and supports consistent cooking performance. Cleaning the basket after each use and wiping accessible surfaces regularly can prevent stubborn residue and unwanted odours. Proper maintenance also helps keep the heating and airflow components working effectively over time.

• Clean the basket: Allow the basket and tray to cool before washing them with suitable dishwashing liquid and a soft sponge. This helps remove grease and food residue without damaging the surface.
• Remove food residue: Clear crumbs, oil, and stuck-on food from the basket and cooking chamber after cooking. Removing residue regularly can make later cleaning easier and prevent build-up.
• Wipe the interior: Use a slightly damp cloth to clean accessible interior surfaces. Avoid pouring water into the appliance or allowing moisture to reach electrical components.
• Clean the heating area: Once the appliance is unplugged and completely cool, gently remove visible grease or residue around the heating element using a suitable cleaning method recommended by the manufacturer.
• Keep the exterior clean: Wipe the outside of the air fryer regularly to remove dust, grease, and cooking splashes. A clean exterior also helps maintain the appliance's appearance.
• Check components: Inspect the basket, tray, power cord, controls, and other accessible parts for damage or excessive wear. Replace damaged components according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Maintain ventilation: Keep the air vents clear of dust and obstructions so the appliance can release heat properly during operation.

Following the manufacturer's cleaning instructions and using non-abrasive cleaning methods can help preserve the air fryer's appearance, cooking performance, and usable life while keeping it ready for regular use.

Thinking of buying a new air fryer?

Before you do that, explore the latest offers from Bajaj Finance. You may find a great deal on a model that matches your needs.

Bajaj Finance offers two ways to convert your air fryer purchase into affordable monthly payments. Both options are available at over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India.

Both financing options are available at the checkout counter at any partner store. Here is how they compare.

How to choose?

Both options require you to be physically present at a partner store. The Insta EMI Card is ideal for shoppers who want to purchase across multiple categories over time. The Easy EMI Loan suits buyers looking to finance a higher-value purchase in a single transaction.

With over 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities, you can finance your air fryer purchase whether you are in a metro like Chennai or a Tier-2 city like Jaipur or Lucknow. The Insta EMI Card also carries zero annual fee, making it a practical long-term financing tool for repeat kitchen and home appliance purchases.

Buying an air fryer is simple and affordable with Bajaj Finance's in-store financing options. The entire process usually takes just 10–15 minutes. Follow these steps:

1. Browse models on Bajaj Mall: Explore the full range of air fryers on Bajaj Mall. Compare capacity, wattage, cooking modes, and prices before heading to the store.
2. Find a partner store near you: Use the Bajaj Finance store locator to find a nearby partner outlet such as Croma, Vijay Sales, or other authorised retailers.
3. Check the air fryer in person: Visit the partner store and explore available models. Check basket capacity in litres, wattage, temperature range in degree Celsius, preset cooking modes, and ease of cleaning to find the one that suits your kitchen.
4. Choose a suitable EMI option: At checkout, ask the store executive about the Bajaj Finance Insta EMI Card or Easy EMI Loan. Confirm available tenure options and whether your chosen model comes with a zero down payment offer.
5. Complete payment and take your air fryer home: Once approved, your purchase is processed immediately and you can leave the partner store the same day.

You can also check your loan eligibility online in advance by entering your mobile number and OTP, helping you plan your purchase better.

Bajaj Finance’s Smart Savings Calculator helps you unlock maximum savings every time you shop at partner stores. It brings together all available brand, dealer, and scheme offers—so you can see your total savings instantly and shop smarter with Easy EMIs.

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