Did you know that a study from Statista back in 2017 found that 28 per cent of households in Great Britain own a deep fat fryer? If you still have an old fryer in the back of your cupboard and want to make a healthier change, here at Yours, we've put one of our resident shopping experts to the test with the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer review.
But before we start listing off why you should switch, here are some benefits of getting your fried food fix without feeling guilty.
Related: The best air fryers 2022
What is the difference between an air fryer and a deep fat fryer?
Deep fat fryers traditionally use hot oil to create tasty treats like chips at home. Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food using convection, which uses essentially the same functions as a convection oven.
What are the benefits of using an air fryer?
Air fryers are seen as a healthier alternative to deep fat fryers as they require a minimal amount of oil if any at all. As well as the health benefits, they're also renowned for being faster to use than traditional oven cooking and easy to clean. In recent years, air fryers have evolved, you'll now find that these kitchen must-haves often can bake, grill, reheat and even dehydrate food.
Pros
- Simple to use and set up
- It has a big capacity but is still portable
- The smart screen and dial are easy to use
- Cooks quickly and evenly
- Multiple cooking options for avid cooks and bakers
- Doesn't require any oil to fry
Cons
- Not the cheapest air fryer available (but still good value for money)
- The sound function alerting that the food is ready could be louder
- Need to monitor food as it cooks quickly
- May not be suitable for households with limited countertop or storage space
| Product dimensions: | 37.9 x 30 x 33cm |
| Item weight: | 5.15kg |
| Manufacturer: | Instant |
| Item model number: | 140-3096-01-UK |
Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer test
Putting the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer under a series of tests over two months, we wanted to ensure this kitchen gadget had what it takes to keep up with a busy household.
What features were tested?
So far, I have been able to use the air frying, roast, baking and grill setting; as well as using the ClearCook, time and temperature function with ease. I've not had the chance to test the re-heat or dehydrate options, but will update this review in the future with my thoughts.
How were the tests carried out?
Tests of the air fryer were carried out over the course of two months in a natural home environment and setting. I used the air fryer several days a week and observed the performance each time.
What were the results?
Performance: Overall, I'm impressed with the performance of this product. Whether it was baking brownies or roasting chicken, the air fryer delivered every time. I like the fact that you're able to adjust the temperature and time cooking (even when in use). I've found that going from an oven, some of my timings were off - so I'm getting used to how long items need to be cooked for. That said, I wouldn't go a week without using this now.
Usability: With some smart products, it can overcomplicate the simplest of functions, but the features on the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer only enhance the ability to use it. From the moment I pulled it out of the box and read the instructions, I was able to use it. Every little detail allows you to cook healthy and delicious meals, such as the dial control and the cooking progress indicator.
Build: As kitchen gadgets go, this is pretty bulky, meaning it's not ideal for anyone with limited worktop space. For anyone with the space, I would recommend purchasing the Instant. Why? Well, it seems like it has been built to last. Over the last two months, I've not had any issues. And as soon as I clean it, it's like it's brand new again.
What is the difference between Instant Vortex and Instant Vortex Plus?
The Instant Vortex is a four-in-one air fryer which basically means it has the ability to air fry, roast, bake and reheat. Whereas the Instant Vortex Plus has all of these functions and the bonus of being able to grill and dehydrate. If you're going to grill, try out burgers, steak and halloumi. These can be perfect dishes to serve, whether you're having guests over for dinner or just having a family night. With the dehydrate function, I've had a friend tell me that they're great for making meat jerky or preparing dried fruit for a healthy snack.
But the benefits don't stop there - the Instant Vortex Plus with ClearCook features a window that lets you check on the cooking process without opening the frying draw, ensuring that the food temperature isn't affected.
There's a slightly newer version of the 6-in-1 available too, the Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer with ClearCook & OdourErase but for £30 extra, the only difference is the addition of the OdourErase filters.
Final thoughts on the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer
Honestly, I don't know how I used to cook before using an air fryer - this is a kitchen staple in our household now. Although I find it works quicker than an oven, and it's a bit of a pain having to keep a more watchful eye on the food, for the ease of use, plus the texture and flavours it brings out of the food, it's totally worth it. If you enjoy cooking and baking, this is the device for you.
FAQs
How much time will the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 Air Fryer save me?
How you use this air fryer will depend on how much time you save. The fact that you can use just one product to air fry, bake, roast, grill, dehydrate and reheat, is an instant time saver in my eyes. Not only does it mean less washing up, but the prep time is reduced.
If time-saving for you is being able to step out of the house and walk the dog while your food is cooking, then I'd be cautious to say this is right for you. In my experience, using the air frying setting means that food is ready to eat quicker. If you programme it to run as long as you would in the oven, you may run the risk of burning your meal.
That said, I've also found that I can create mouth-wateringly good roast potatoes in the air fryer in just 25 minutes, whereas my oven takes around one hour - that's 35 minutes you'll get back to head off to the park after your meal.
Is the air fryer reasonably priced?
The typical price of an air fryer runs from around £29.99 for budget options to more than £300 for higher-end products. You'll find most air fryers are available for around the £200 mark. For the price, expect a large capacity for growing families and features like digital temperature control.
How to clean your new device?
One of the biggest pros is how easy this air fryer is to clean. As well as clear instructions in the manual, Instant has also pulled together a short video on their Instagram page showing you how to deep clean your new kitchen gadget.