It's not often that an appliance lights up social media. But in the last year, air fryer recipes, reviews and hacks have been dominating our feeds, as people across the country look for more economical ways to cook.
If you haven't yet become part of the air fryer revolution – or are a convert and are looking to upgrade – do we have a great air fryer for you. The Philips HD9280/91 Connected XL Air Fryer, available in stores and online at John Lewis, has already proved a big hit with shoppers. Here's why...
Cut the cost of cooking
The first myth to debunk is that air fryers don't technically 'fry'. Rather they give the same results as a fryer would while using little to no oil, delivering chips, potatoes breaded fish and much more that's crispy on the outside and tender in the middle. And they're not just for chips, either. You can cook everything in an air fryer – from a lamb roast to a juicy burger. You can even bake a cake in one, or reheat last-night's leftovers.
Think of them as a countertop fan oven that heats up very quickly and does everything your regular oven can and more.
At the same time, they use a LOT less energy than a standard oven. According to Philips, the Connected XL air fryer cooks 40% faster and saves on average 60% energy than a standard oven*. So if you are eager to cut your energy bills, an air fryer could play a vital role.
As the name suggests, the Connected XL is smart. Start by pairing your air fryer to the NutriU app for Apple or Android, and pick from one of hundreds of tasty meals to try. Once you’ve decided, add your ingredients, send the cooking instructions to your air fryer from your phone, then go and relax on the sofa.
The app will tell you when your food is cooked, and if you've got a few minutes left on a must-see show, don't worry. The Philips Connected XL will keep your food warm for up to 30 minutes until you're ready to eat.
The reviews say it all
With an average rating from customers of 4.8. out of 5 stars, the Philips Connected XL has a lot of fans.
'Not a fryer, way more flexible!' says verified buyer Pippatong. 'Love my new airfryer, I use it most days. I've made stews, potato gratin, roast chicken and of course, fries! Plenty of other things too, oh yes, don't forget the enchiladas. Really useful bit of kit.'
Mrs B is one of several reviewers to describe the air fryer as a 'game changer'. 'Can't tell you how pleased we all are with this product,' she adds. 'Cooking times are greatly reduced. It is sooo quiet, easy to operate, quick to clean and definitely healthier. Great purchase.'
Verified buyer Kirsty says 'Sunday dinners have never been so easy, while Naturally.nonts describes it as 'The best Airfryer. I've been using this Airfryer for more than a week now and I can't stop raving about it, It's my absolutely favorite cooking appliance in my home. I'm totally blown away!'
Many praise the Philips Connected XL's versatility, describing it more like a small fan oven than a fryer, and explaining that it can do almost everything their standard oven can do, and without the need for preheating. LeeKiki from Wolverhampton even says they've 'not used my oven since I got it'.
So if you're looking to invest in an air fryer for Christmas, you don't need to take our word for it that the Philips Connected XL is worth your consideration.
Buy now: Philips HD9280/91 Connected XL Air Fryer, £199.99, John Lewis
Grab it while you can!
*Average percentages based on internal lab measurement with products HD9280, HD9650, HD9860, HD9270, HD9285, HD9252, HD9200, HD9255, HD9880; cooking one chicken (AF setting 160C no preheat) or salmon filet (AF setting 200C, no preheat) vs. using an A class oven.
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