The humble baked potato, a staple of British comfort food, is at the centre of a modern kitchen debate. Is the traditional oven method still the best, or does the trendy air fryer deliver a superior spud? We conducted a culinary experiment to settle the score once and for all.
The Great British Spud Showdown: Methodology
We took identical Maris Piper potatoes, a UK favourite, and prepared them using two methods: the classic oven and the modern air fryer. The goal was to compare cooking time, energy efficiency, and most importantly, the final texture and taste.
Cooking Time: A Clear Winner Emerges
The results were staggering. The traditional oven method required a lengthy 60 to 90 minutes in a preheated oven at 200°C (180°C for fan ovens). Meanwhile, the air fryer delivered a perfectly cooked potato in just 30 to 40 minutes at the same temperature, slashing the cooking time by more than half.
The Texture and Taste Test
While speed is important, flavour is king. The oven-baked potato developed a wonderfully fluffy interior over its long cook, but the air fryer produced a notably crispier skin—a highly prized feature for many. The interior of the air-fried potato was still perfectly light and fluffy, challenging the notion that slow cooking is essential for texture.
Energy Efficiency: Cutting Costs in a Crisis
With energy bills a concern for households across the UK, efficiency matters. The air fryer's significantly shorter cooking time translates to lower electricity usage, making it the more economical choice for preparing this classic dish.
Chef's Tip: The Secret to Perfect Skin
Regardless of your chosen method, one pro tip remains unchanged: rubbing the skin with oil and salt before cooking is non-negotiable for achieving that signature crispy, flavoursome jacket.
The Verdict
The air fryer wins on speed and efficiency, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner. However, the oven remains a reliable method for cooking multiple potatoes at once for a family. For the ultimate baked potato with supremely crispy skin and a fluffy interior, the air fryer has firmly established itself as a game-changer in British kitchens.
