Havells Avanza Air Fryer review: A do-it-all kitchen gadget that nails it

The Havells Avanza Air Oven occupies a unique space between an air fryer and a mini convection oven, making it an enticing option for kitchen enthusiasts. Priced at Rs 12,500, this appliance aims to replace several kitchen gadgets with its multifunctional capabilities. With a generous 15-litre capacity and a robust 1,700W of power, Havells markets the Avanza as a 3-in-1 solution that can air fry, roast, grill, and even rotisserie your favorite dishes. Visually, the Avanza impresses with its sleek, boxy design that stands apart from the more rounded forms typical of many air fryers. Its sturdy construction, featuring a glossy black and steel finish, adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen countertop. A transparent window at the front allows users to monitor their cooking without interrupting the process, while the tactile control panel, comprising simple knobs for temperature and time, provides a refreshing alternative to modern touchscreens. One of the most significant advantages of the Avanza is its spacious interior, which accommodates a medium-sized chicken or multiple trays of snacks simultaneously. This feature is particularly beneficial for small families or those who enjoy meal prepping, making it a practical choice for busy kitchens. Havells has included a thoughtful array of accessories to enhance the Avanza’s versatility. The frying basket, equipped with a detachable handle, simplifies tasks such as shaking fries or lifting roasted vegetables. Additionally, the dual grill rack maximizes cooking space, allowing users to bake cookies on one level while roasting paneer tikka on another. The appliance also comes with a 360-degree stainless steel skewer set for even heat distribution, perfect for kebabs and tikkas. The rotisserie fork adds yet another dimension, enabling the Avanza to serve as a compact spit-roaster for whole chickens. In terms of cooking performance, the Avanza truly shines. It heats up quickly and maintains consistent temperatures, producing crispy fries without the excess oil associated with traditional frying. Roasted vegetables preserve their texture, while grilled items, such as fish and chicken, remain juicy. The rotisserie feature, though requiring careful placement of the meat, results in evenly cooked and flavorful dishes. However, users may need to adjust their cooking times, as this mini oven's performance can vary compared to standard air fryers, leading to a bit of trial and error initially. User-friendliness is another strong suit of the Avanza. Despite its larger size, the appliance is easy to operate, with responsive knobs and a reassuring door closure. The detachable handle on the basket is particularly helpful when handling hot food. Cleaning is manageable, although some accessories may require extra care after greasy dishes. Fortunately, most components are dishwasher safe, and the interior coating resists staining effectively. Operating quieter than many competitors, the Avanza runs with a gentle fan hum that is not intrusive. Heat management is also well-executed; while the sides may warm up, they never become dangerously hot, and the handle remains comfortably cool, showcasing Havells' attention to safety and insulation. Though the Avanza's 1,700W power consumption may not be the most energy-efficient, the performance it delivers justifies the usage. When compared to purchasing separate air fryer and oven units, the Avanza's price becomes more appealing. Whether upgrading from an older model or outfitting a new kitchen, this appliance can serve as a primary cooking companion. In conclusion, the Havells Avanza Air Oven stands out as an appliance that largely delivers on its promises. It cooks food evenly, boasts a premium appearance, and effectively consolidates the functions of three devices into one. While there is a slight learning curve with timing and cleaning, the substantial benefits in performance and versatility make it a worthy addition to any kitchen.