Your guide to putting this popular appliance to good use.

What Is an Air Fryer?

Air fryers come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

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Photo:yulka3ice / Getty Images

Still,what is an air fryerexactly?

However, air fryers have a few advantages.

They can preheat and cook faster than ovens.

Finally, theyre more energy efficient.

Still, there are times when youre better offusing your oven.

Air fryers arent the best for larger portions orcertain foods, such as saucy or cheesy dishes.

However, using an air fryer is relatively simple, and many of them operate in the same way.

Forcrispy vegetables, for example, spray or mix the food with oil before adding to the basket.

For some foods, such aseggsorcakes, you may need special equipment like silicone molds.

Once you start using an air fryer, you may never go back.

Over time, you may even learn some cool tips and tricks.

Even using more oil than a recipe calls for can become a fire hazard.

Wear oven mitts and practice caution when handling a hot air fryer or food.

And, of course, read the manual so you know exactly how to use your specific air fryer.