For those who have ever asked, What air fryer do chefs use?, you’re not alone. Air fryers are affordable and handy gadgets that have quickly transitioned from infomercial products to a must-have in American kitchens, reducing time and eliminating the need for frying in oil. Interestingly, professional chefs also use air fryers at home and in their commercial kitchens. This guide explores why chefs are embracing air fryers, the best models they use, and the features that make these appliances so in demand.
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Why Do Chefs Use Air Fryers?
Although air fryers are typically seen as appliances for home cooks, professional chefs also incorporate them in their kitchens for good reason:
- Speed: Air fryers preheat quickly and cook meals in a fraction of the time, making them perfect for fast-paced kitchens.
- Healthier Cooking: Many air fryers require only a small amount of oil, while others don’t need any oil at all, providing a healthier way to fry food—ideal for health-conscious customers.
- Uniformity: Whether frying, roasting, or baking, air fryers deliver perfectly crispy results with even cooking—crucial in a professional kitchen.
Best Air Fryers Chosen by Professional Chefs
So, which air fryer do chefs use the most? Here are the top air fryer models that chefs actually use:
1. Philips Airfryer XXL
Rated highly by chefs, the Philips Airfryer XXL is known for its large capacity and advanced air frying technology that eliminates cold spots during cooking. Whether you’re frying fries or roasting chicken, this air fryer retains the food’s taste. It’s no surprise that it’s a favorite for busy kitchens.
Key Features:
- Large 3 lb. cooking capacity
- Even heat distribution with fast air technology
- Suitable for sautéing, grilling, roasting, and baking
2. Ninja Air Fryer Max XL
Chefs love the Ninja Air Fryer Max XL for its versatility. With nine preset functions, it can do much more than just air fry, it can also bake, roast, and dehydrate. Its large, easy-to-pull-out basket and powerful fan make it ideal for cooking multiple dishes simultaneously.
Key Features:
- Multi-functionality: air fry, roast, bake, and dehydrate
- Large 5.5-quart basket for cooking larger quantities
- Powerful air circulation for even cooking
3. Breville Smart Oven Air
The Breville Smart Oven Air features Super Convection technology that cooks food evenly, allowing it to air fry and bake with ease. Chefs appreciate its versatility, making it more than just a toaster oven—it can roast, bake, and air fry to create new dishes in the kitchen.
Key Features:
- 13 cooking functions, including air fry, bake, roast, and dehydrate
- Super Convection technology for faster, more even cooking
- Spacious interior for cooking larger meals
How Do Pros Use Air Fryers in Their Kitchens?
While air fryers are becoming increasingly popular in home kitchens, they’re also making their way into professional kitchens. Chefs use them for several tasks, including:
- Oil-Free Frying: Air fryers allow chefs to fry without oil, making them a healthier and cleaner option than traditional deep fryers—ideal for restaurants offering lighter fare.
- Roasting and Baking: Air fryers can roast vegetables, bake goods, and cook meats, acting as a multi-functional kitchen appliance.
- Space-Saving: Air fryers are compact, making them perfect for small kitchens or food trucks where space is limited.
What Chefs Like About Air Fryers
There are specific features that chefs love about air fryers, such as:
- Precise Heat Control: Professional chefs need precise temperature control to prepare a variety of dishes, and air fryers provide that.
- Faster, Crispier Results: Air fryers are known for delivering crispy food faster, even with minimal oil use.
- Versatility: Modern air fryers are highly versatile, allowing chefs to not only fry but also bake, roast, and dehydrate, making them an all-in-one kitchen appliance.
FAQs
Do professional chefs use air fryers?
Yes, chefs use air fryers to save time and reduce oil usage while maintaining crisp, flavorful results. You’ll often find air fryers in restaurants focused on health-conscious dining.
What are the best air fryers for baking and frying?
The Breville Smart Oven Air and Ninja Air Fryer Max XL are excellent choices, thanks to their precise temperature controls and various cooking functions.
Do commercial kitchens use air fryers?
Air fryers are becoming more common in commercial kitchens, especially those that emphasize healthier menu options. Although they don’t completely replace deep fryers, air fryers are a great alternative for health-conscious cooking.
Conclusion
If you’re in the market for a reliable air fryer, knowing which air fryers chefs use can help you make a well-informed decision. The Philips Airfryer XXL, Ninja Air Fryer Max XL, and Breville Smart Oven Air are popular choices among chefs for their speed, versatility, and ability to produce healthier, delicious results. Whether you’re a home cook or a professional chef, an air fryer can revolutionize the way you cook in the kitchen.