Residents at a Ryman Village recently enjoyed a delightful cooking demonstration, thanks to fellow resident Julie and her enthusiastic helper, granddaughter Sadie.

Julie has become quite fond of her air fryer, appreciating how straightforward it is to use. Knowing that some people might feel a bit unsure about trying out new appliances, she kindly offered to share a couple of simple recipes to help others get started.

Sadie joined in as Julie’s cheerful sous-chef, showing just how enjoyable air fryer cooking can be - especially when spending time with the grandkids.

Julie prepared two easy recipes for the group: one savoury and one sweet. First up was a quick bacon and egg on toast snack, ready in just 10 minutes, inspired by a recipe from www.inthekitchenwithmatt.com. Then came a classic pavlova, cooked in only 30 minutes, based on a recipe from www.taste.com.au.

It’s easy to see why air fryers have become so popular. They’re compact - ideal for apartment living - and they use less energy than a traditional oven, which is a win for the electricity bill.

For Julie, it means more time to enjoy the many activities on offer in the village and to connect with new friends.

Now that’s what you’d call a recipe for good living!

Air Fryer Pavlova

Prep: 40 mins
Cook: 30 mins
Serves: 8

 Ingredients:

• 4 egg whites
• 1 cup caster sugar
• 1 tsp cornflour
• 1 tsp vinegar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream to serve
• Raspberries to serve

 Method:

• Beat egg whites in until firm peaks form. One tablespoon at a time, add the sugar, until the mixture is thick and glossy. Add the cornflour, vinegar and vanilla, and beat until just combined.
  
  
• Tear off two sheets of baking paper. Spoon the mixture onto one sheet of baking paper and shape into 18cm disc. Place the remaining piece of baking paper into the air fryer basket. Carefully lift the baking paper with the meringue into the basket, placing on top of the first piece.
  
  
• Air fry at 120ºC for 30-35 minutes. Remove from the air fryer and set aside to cool on the baking paper.
  
  
• When cool transfer to serving plate and top with whipped cream and raspberries.

Air Fryer Bacon and Egg Toast

Prep: 2 mins

Cook: 10 mins

 Ingredients:

• 2 slices of your favourite bread
• 2 eggs, any size
• Bacon, whatever kind of bacon you want, but strips preferable
• Salt and Pepper to taste

  Method:

• Crack eggs and place in small bowl. Not necessary but gives you control when placing the egg.
  
  
• Lightly butter one side of bread. Place buttered side into air fryer basket.
  
  
• Take bacon strip and curl around top of the slice of bread to form a nest. This will hold the egg so it doesn’t run all over the place.
  
  
• Pour the egg into the middle of the bacon nest.
  
  
• Sprinkle on salt and pepper if desired.
  
  
• Replace air fryer basket and cook 10minutes at 350ºF / 180ºC.
  
  
• Remove the basket and use spatula or fingers to remove the toast.