We’re in the midst of an air fryer revolution. They’re the subject of your WhatsApp group chats, all anyone is talking about in the office canteen and you’re thinking it may just be time to take the plunge.
You have probably been extolled endlessly about the many benefits elevating these humble kitchen companions to a status symbol - whether it’s their energy-efficiency in the cost of living crisis, the time you save or the health benefits of using next to no oil in the cooking process. It’s all anyone is talking about.
Instant Brands is on the forefront. It has an expansive offering of air fryers with extensive multicooking functions but new to the block is the Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer that will push any reservations about the purchase to one side.
Not only does the brand suggest that it will save 80 per cent on energy bills compared to an electric oven, but the appliance was created in response to research partaken by the label that found one in eight wished for more worktop space. The ‘Slim’ device is 20 per cent smaller than its predecessors so you can whip up creative culinary creations no matter the size of your kitchen.
But does affect its functionality? We put the Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer to the test to find out.
Key Specs
- Capacity: 5.7L
- Product dimensions: D45.2 x W25.9 x H30.1cm
- Power usage: 1700W
- Programs: 5-in-1 (Air fry, roast, grill, reheat, and bake)
- Weight: 6.8 kg
Design
If you have previously owned an air fryer, you will notice immediately that the Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer model is much smaller than others on the market. The brand says it’s 20 per cent slimmer than the Vortex 6QT air fryer and it certainly takes up a lot less space than my Ninja Foodi MAX 15-in-1 (although this is particularly large). So you can get a feel as to the slimline nature of this appliance, it is set atop my small dishwasher and there’s room to spare.
Despite being compact in appearance, the single drawer is anything but. The sizeable space can fit a 1.3kg chicken, enough to feed four. I was able to fit five chicken breasts easily and maybe could even squeeze another one in.
The air fryer has a simple touchscreen interface with a message bar that gives instructions throughout the cooking process - telling you when it’s hot and ready to go and when it’s time to turn your food. Other models of air fryer may not require any preheating time but this option from Instant Brands needs a couple of minutes to warm up. The time is much shorter than an oven, but worth noting.
The cable is quite short but I was able to place the unit directly next to a plug so this was not a huge issue but is something to consider if you’re struggling for plug access in your kitchen.
Functionality
The first thing that I cooked with the air fryer was a chicken breast. I’d marinated in a Nandos sauce and popped it in for 20 minutes as you would in a traditional oven. Big mistake. It was incredibly overcooked.
Next time around, I did it for 15 minutes and was rewarded with the ultimate fakeaway at a fraction of the cost. I set the meat on the griddle-like attachment provided and the clean up was seamless. This is not usually the case with a pan of the ilk but the remnants slid off in a matter of seconds, especially if you run the tap while it’s still warm. The inserts are dishwasher safe but this is not needed with such a speedy handwash process.
One of the most impressive features is the brand’s trademarked EvenCrisp technology. I didn’t use any oil at all and yet there was a welcomed crunch in my dishes. To protect the non-stick, it’s best not to forgo oil but if you’re worried about sticking, look to paper or silicone liners that you can purchase additionally. I personally found this not at all necessary.
The elongated basket design means that, while it is slimmer in appearance, it doesn’t sacrifice the ability to cook longer foods - be it a leg of lamb, skewers or even a roast chicken.
Sound-wise, this air fryer was barely audible and certainly not invasive and it even received a Quiet Mark Certification. There are alerts that let you know when your food is ready and when to add or turn the dish.
All in all, it is incredibly easy to use. The only adjustments come as you trial and error how long to cook things for. But this appliance is a real time saver, making the idea of cooking up a feast after a long day in the office more appealing, especially when they’re evenly cooked, flavour-packed and lower in calories.
Verdict
The Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer may be small in size but it’s certainly not small in functionality. The cooking capacity is surprising large, while dishes are quick, quiet and easy to whip up. I’ve now followed all the Instagram accounts, invested in the cookbooks and there’s a world of possibilities for speedy mid-week meals. I may never use my oven again.
Best air fryer deals: healthier, low-cost meals for the whole family
Best Ninja air fryers tried and tested: Which should you buy in 2023?
Salter air fryer deal: where to buy now for less than £30
Best air fryers for cooking chips, meat, vegetables and more
Best budget air fryers under £100 tried and tested
The ES Best air fryer buying guide: How to choose the right model for you
Best dual air fryers tried and tested: Two-basket models to cook mains and sides together
Best halogen ovens for saving money while cooking
Best multi cookers that can do it all from Ninja, Crockpot and more
Instant Vortex Slim Air Fryer
Buy now £99.99, Amazon
