Yes, there are microwave air fryer combination appliances available on the market. These all-in-one appliances aim to offer the speed and convenience of a microwave with the crispy, fried results of an air fryer.
What is a microwave air fryer combination?
A microwave air fryer combination is an appliance that combines microwave technology with air frying capabilities in one unit. It allows you to not only microwave foods for quick reheating and cooking, but also air fry foods to get a crispy, fried finish using little to no oil.
These combination appliances have heating elements and fans like a traditional air fryer. But they also have microwave power for rapid heating. This allows you to cook foods much faster than you could by just air frying alone.
Many models have different power levels and pre-set cooking functions for air frying, grilling, baking, roasting, broiling, toasting, and dehydrating. So you can use one appliance to prepare a wide variety of dishes.
Benefits of a microwave air fryer combo
There are several benefits that these combination appliances aim to offer:
– Versatility – Being able to both microwave and air fry opens up more cooking options and allows you to prepare more types of foods and meals in one unit.
– Speed – Microwaving before air frying helps reduce cooking times significantly compared to just air frying. This allows for quick weeknight meals.
– Convenience – With multiple functions available in one appliance, you can save counter space and money versus buying separate microwave and air fryer units.
– Crispiness – The air fryer capabilities allow you to crisp and brown foods for a better texture than just microwaving alone.
– Healthier – Air frying uses less or no oil compared to deep frying for a healthier cooking method.
Popular brands and models
Some popular microwave air fryer combo brands and models include:
| Brand | Model |
| Ninja | Ninja Foodi Digital Microwave Air Fryer |
| Cuisinart | Cuisinart microwave air fryer combo |
| Galanz | Galanz G80F2AMPT2B microwave air fryer |
| Toshiba | Toshiba EC-AF1300 microwave air fryer |
| Instant | Instant Vortex Plus Air Fryer Oven with Microwave |
These brands offer models in different sizes, styles, and at various price points. Ninja and Cuisinart are two of the more popular options for combination microwave air fryers right now.
What to consider when purchasing
Here are some key factors to consider if you’re thinking about buying a microwave air fryer combo:
– Size and capacity – Consider the capacity you’ll need for your household in terms of both microwave power/size and air fryer basket size. Measure counter space.
– Settings and functions – Look for various useful presets and modes like roast, bake, reheat, defrost, etc. Digital displays with easy controls are convenient.
– Power – Make sure the microwave wattage and air fryer wattage are sufficient. The more power, the faster and more efficient the cooking.
– Ease of use – Pick an intuitive model with simple operation. Check that both functions can be used simultaneously. See that accessories are dishwasher safe.
– Safety features – Look for built-in sensors and auto shut-off capabilities in case of overheating or other issues.
– Price – These combination appliances range widely in price. Set a budget and look for good value based on your needs.
Microwave air fryer recipes
A microwave air fryer opens up lots of possibilities for quick and easy meals. Here are some recipe ideas to try:
Microwave air fryer chicken wings
– Microwave wings for 5-7 minutes to cook inside
– Pat dry then coat with oil, seasonings
– Air fry 25-30 minutes at 380F for crispy skin
Microwave air fryer bacon
– Lay bacon slices on microwave safe plate
– Microwave 3-4 minutes until partially cooked
– Transfer to air fryer basket and air fry at 400F for 2-5 minutes until desired crispness
Microwave air fryer French fries
– Microwave potatoes for 7-10 minutes until fork tender
– Toss potatoes with oil, seasonings
– Air fry at 400F for 15-20 minutes, flipping occasionally
Microwave air fryer frozen foods
– Microwave frozen items briefly to start thawing, 2-5 minutes
– Transfer to air fryer basket, spritz oil if needed
– Air fry following package instructions for crispy finish
Pros and cons of microwave air fryers
Here is a quick pros and cons breakdown:
Pros:
– Faster cooking times
– Versatility and functionality
– Crispier results than microwave alone
– Healthier than deep frying
– Multiple cooking modes
– Convenience of all-in-one appliance
Cons:
– Takes up more counter space than either appliance alone
– More expensive than buying separate microwave and air fryer
– Capacity may be more limited
– Some models may have performance issues
– Not as large of capacity as conventional ovens
Conclusion
Microwave air fryer combination appliances offer an intriguing multitasking option for home cooks looking to maximize counter space and functionality in the kitchen. The ability to microwave food for fast heating and cooking, then switch to air frying mode for crisping, browning, and creating that satisfying crunch results in far more versatility than each appliance individually.
Models from leading brands like Ninja and Cuisinart provide quality construction and useful presets. With the right size and features based on your household needs, a microwave air fryer combo can be a worthwhile investment for full meals and snacking. While performance varies by model, many owners find these hybrid appliances deliver on the advertised speed and crispness when used properly. Just make sure to learn the ideal times and cook settings for both functions.