The Havells Avanza Air Oven is an innovative appliance that occupies a unique space between an air fryer and a compact convection oven. With a price tag of Rs 12,500, it may not be the most affordable option, but it claims to replace several kitchen gadgets simultaneously. Featuring a capacity of 15 litres and operating at 1,700W, Havells promotes the Avanza as a versatile 3-in-1 unit that can effectively air fry, roast, grill, and even rotisserie a whole chicken. On paper, this sounds ambitious, yet in practice, it nearly delivers on those promises.

Design and Build

The Avanza presents an appealing appearance. Its sleek, boxy design contrasts sharply with the bulging profiles typically seen in air fryers. It feels robust, adorned with a glossy black and stainless steel finish, which imparts a premium look on the kitchen counter. A transparent window on the front allows easy monitoring of the cooking process without needing to open the door. The control panel features tactile knobs for temperature and time settings, offering a refreshing analogue approach amidst a sea of touchscreen devices.

One prominent feature of the Avanza is the generous space it provides when compared to standard air fryers. It can accommodate a medium chicken or a couple of trays of snacks, making it an ideal choice for small families or individuals who engage in meal prep.

Features and Accessories

Havells has thoughtfully equipped the Avanza with a variety of accessories to support its multifunctional objectives. Included is a frying basket featuring a detachable handle, making it easy to shake fries or lift roasted vegetables. The dual grill rack smartly doubles the cooking area, allowing users to bake cookies on one level while roasting paneer tikka above.

The appliance also comes with a 360-degree stainless steel skewer set that ensures even heat distribution, making it perfect for kebabs and tikkas. Furthermore, the rotisserie fork transforms the Avanza into a compact spit-roaster that can handle an entire chicken. Few air fryers priced similarly offer this level of versatility.

Cooking Performance

Performance is where the Avanza shines. It heats quickly and maintains steady temperatures throughout the cooking process. Fries emerge crispy and golden without the excess oil typically associated with deep frying. Roasted vegetables remain crisp, while grilled items like chicken breasts or fish retain their tenderness.

The rotisserie feature is particularly noteworthy. Although it requires some attention to ensure that the chicken is balanced and centred, once activated, it provides evenly browned and juicy results. Tikkas benefit greatly from the consistent air circulation provided by the powerful 1,700W system.

However, some experimentation is necessary. As a mini oven, cooking times may differ from those of standard air fryers, so initial sessions may involve trial and error until optimal settings for various recipes are established.

Usability and Cleaning

Despite its larger size, the Avanza is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The control knobs respond well, the door shuts securely, and the attachments fit firmly. The detachable handle on the basket is a practical feature, particularly when handling hot food. Cleaning the appliance is reasonably straightforward, although the grill racks and rotisserie rods may require extra care when washing after greasy dishes. Fortunately, many parts are dishwasher-safe, and the interior coating resists staining effectively.

Noise and Heat Management

The Avanza operates quieter than many other air fryers within its category. The fan emits an audible hum, but it is not overly distracting. Heat management is also well-executed; while the sides do warm up, they remain at a comfortable temperature, and the handle stays cool to the touch. It is evident that Havells has prioritised safety and insulation in this design.

Energy Consumption and Value

At 1,700W, while it may not be the most energy-efficient appliance, the powerful performance justifies its power usage. When considering the cost of acquiring separate air fryers and ovens, the Avanza’s price of Rs 12,500 begins to appear quite reasonable. For those upgrading from a smaller fryer or establishing a new kitchen, it can serve as an excellent primary cooking option.

The Havells Avanza Air Oven is a rare appliance that primarily lives up to its advertised capabilities. It cooks evenly, boasts a premium aesthetic, and genuinely economises space by functioning as three separate devices. While not entirely free of flaws, particularly in terms of the learning curve for optimal timing and cleaning, the benefits in terms of performance and versatility make it a worthwhile investment.

If there is room on the kitchen counter for one multifunctional appliance, the Avanza is well worth considering.