The air fryer is the new high-speed blender of kitchen appliances. It can do it all. Unlike some other kitchen “essentials” that tend to collect dust and clutter your countertops, air fryers can be used every day, for every meal. This trending kitchen gadget cooks a wide range of dishes in about half the time of an oven, without the need for oil. Whether you’re cutting back on oil or just short on time, the air fryer could be your new gadget go-to. Pack up that clunky juicer you used once to clear some space for an air fryer. You won’t want to miss out on these 9 plant-based, vegan oil-free recipes.
9 Oil-Free Vegan Recipes You Can Make in an Air Fryer
1. Apple Pie
Yes, you can use your air fryer for more than just french fries. In fact, you can even use it to bake. Check out this oil-free recipe for apple pie and embrace your inner Betty Crocker. For more inventive vegan air frier recipes, check out JL Field’s best-selling Vegan Air Fryer Cookbook.
Get the recipe here.
2. Southern Fried Chicken Soy Curls
Even vegan fried chicken isn’t the healthiest option. Sure, there’s no cholesterol, but deep-frying can add a significant amount of calories and excess fat to any dish, be it vegan or otherwise. Get your fried chicken fix with these air-fried soy curls by Kathy Hester. This vegan cook and author focuses on southern favorites with a healthy twist. For more down-home recipes, such as plant-based beignets, po’ boys, and cheesy collard chips, check out her new cookbook, Vegan Cooking in Your Air Fryer.
Get the recipe here.
3. Crispy Tofu
Tofu is all about the preparation. Admittedly, tofu can be a bit of a turnoff in its pure form…this spongy white block partly submerged in an unidentified liquid doesn’t seem appetizing to begin with. However, with a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, even the most novice of home chefs can transform it into delicious crispy morsels of plant-based protein.
Get the recipe here.
4.Vegan Bacon Wrapped Mini Breakfast Burritos
These awesome grab-and-go breakfast bites are stuffed with tofu scramble, big chunks of oil-free roasted veggies, and wrapped in a liquid smoke-infused rice paper wrap. They’ve got all the protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals you need to have a spectacular start to your day.
Get the recipe here.
5. Buffalo Cauliflower Steak Sandwich
Cauliflower is the new kale, and it seems like even omnivore restaurants are hopping on the cauliflower bandwagon by serving some version of buffalo cauliflower. Skip the bill and make your own at home. There are tons of vegan buffalo cauliflower recipes out there, but this one adds an extra kick with a splash of bourbon in the batter!
Get the recipe here.
6. Brownies
Oftentimes, when the brownie craving hits, we want it now. We also don’t want to bake an entire sheet pan for one, because we know our willpower has its limits. This recipe allows us to whip up a small batch chocolatey treat without waiting for the oven to preheat. Instant gratification.
Get the recipe here.
7. Falafel
These crispy on the outside, tender on the inside falafel are perfect for stuffing inside a pita or topping a salad. Serve them with a side of oil-free tahini sauce and garnish with pickled red cabbage and a tomato cucumber salad.
Get the recipe here.
8. Onion Rings
French fries are the obvious choice for air fryers, but these gadgets also work wonders for onion rings. These deliciously crispy, fat-free delights rival any fast food option. Speed past the drive-through and enjoy these vegan snacks at home. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Get the recipe here.
9. Bacon Cashews
Your local pub mix will never be the same after you try this recipe. Seasoned with liquid smoke, a dash of salt, and a drizzle of blackstrap molasses, these cashews are addictive! Enjoy them by the handful, or spice up a stir-fry, or even garnish a sundae with these crispy, crunchy pops of pure flavor.
Get the recipe here.
Still not enough air-frying for you? Check out these nine air fryer recipes to satisfy your crispy tooth.
