Hello, spirited readers! In this issue:

• Behold the fearless fryer 

• You may already own an air fryer 

• Nothing’s off the table

• Onion rings and other things

• Can’t top this

• A word from Julia

The Fearless Fryer

What began with the Veg-A-Matic, slow cookers, and toaster ovens has evolved into a nonstop parade of revolutionary kitchen appliances and gadgets. We’re now able to use a multifunction pressure cooker to turn a rock-solid frozen pork butt into tender pulled BBQ in under 2 hours. Bake a potato in the microwave in less than 5 minutes. And whip up a perfect gazpacho in a food processor in seconds.

And then there are air fryers. So, what’s all the hubbub about? Are they really necessary? Well, let’s chat about that.

First, the skinny on fat

As a healthier alternative to deep-fat frying, air fryers circulate hot air to cook food with minimal oil. That alone reduces fat content by up to 80% while still delivering divinely crispy results. For busy cooks, it’s an easy way to get a meal on the table without giving up flavor or enjoyment.

Eating the right kinds and the right amount of fat is essential for good health and feeling satisfied. The healthiest are unsaturated fats, like those found in salmon, olives, avocados, and nuts. 

A diet high in saturated and trans fats, like those found in traditionally fried foods, is unhealthy on a regular basis. They can contribute to a range of ailments like weight gain and obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and some cancers. 

Air frying lets you enjoy the crunchy goodness of fried foods but without the “bad” fats. And let’s face it. It's easier to eat healthier when you don’t have to give up the foods you love.

Breaking news: You may already own an air fryer 

Did you know that many regular ovens and toaster ovens can air fry? All you need is a "convection" setting on your appliance. Surprisingly, some food experts say that toaster ovens with a convection or air fry function are just as effective as an air fryer, if not better.

Nothing’s off the table

Air frying opens a new world in this age of mindful eating. And it's easy. There are only a few basics:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan

• Pat the food dry before adding oil

• A light spray of olive or avocado oil works best 

• Flip items halfway through cooking

• For extra crunch in breaded recipes, use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs

Never use non-stick sprays like PAM for air frying to avoid a sticky residue. For best results, use olive or avocado oil spray. Your food will taste better, look better, and your body will love you for it.

Favorite air fryer recipes

These are some of my go-tos. They work well with any air-frying method you choose. You’ll also find there’s no shortage of recipes online for French fries, chicken wings and tenders, and more.

Potato chips 

For even slices, use a mandoline or food processor. I sprinkle the chips with fresh herbs, exotic spices, and/or flavored salt.

Crispy air-fryer tofu

Instead of deep frying, I use this for black pepper tofu, one of my favorite recipes from Yotam Ottolenghi.

Coconut shrimp

These are great alone or with store-bought Thai sweet chili sauce. Like Bang Bang Shrimp? Try this 3-ingredient sauce.

Crab-stuffed shrimp

Air fry these at 350℉ for 10-12 minutes. I often use crab claw instead of lump; it’s just as good but easier on the wallet.

Ridiculously good air fryer chicken

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. Just a few basic ingredients come together in 20 minutes for a deliciously healthy meal. Any leftovers are great on a salad the next day.

Onion rings

These are nearly dead-ringers (pun intended) for the deep-fried version, but without the grease or the guilt. 

Two-ingredient donuts 

This easy recipe includes directions for a sugar glaze, but I’ve used other toppings like powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, and leftover chocolate ganache. It also makes a great dessert: try it plain with a scoop of ice cream and the sauce of your choice.

Need more ideas? Here are 100 more

Also:

Jamie Oliver’s air fryer recipes

10 desserts you can make in your air fryer

Easy air fryer recipes for beginners

Can’t top this

If you’re in the market for a multifunction pressure cooker like an Instant Pot, Breville, or Ninja, there may be a model that includes a separate air fryer lid. (I can personally attest to its “top” performance.) The functions are straightforward, and with the touch of a button, you can take your cooking in many directions. You can even roast a whole chicken in it, emerging fork-tender with crispy skin and all!

Do you already own a pressure cooker? Good for you! Some brands offer a separate lid to convert it into an air fryer when you need it. These come in various sizes depending on your cooker's capacity, so order carefully.

Julia’s favorite fries 

It was rumored for years that Julia Child liked McDonald’s fries. That’s right: it was said that the master of boeuf bourguignon and light-as-air souffles liked her frites from the Golden Arches.

Sometime around 1998, my then nine-year-old daughter and I had the privilege of meeting Julia Child. My daughter immediately piped up and asked if the rumors were true. Child’s warm signature smile lit up her face as she quickly responded in her distinctive voice, "Well, yes. I thought they were quite good until they changed the fat they used.” She went on to say that the original fat was mostly beef tallow, but McDonald’s stopped using it because of public health concerns.

And the rest is culinary history.

We look forward to building this tapestry of experiences with you.