Rachael Penn

A practical guide tests whether a complete Sunday roast can be cooked using only an air fryer. The recipe uses a 1.9kg turkey crown, vegetables, roast potatoes, stuffing balls, pigs in blankets, Yorkshire puddings and gravy, with detailed temperatures, timings, preparation instructions and advice on checking the turkey reaches 75C internally. The method can be faster and produce crisp results, but requires careful planning, batch cooking and sufficient appliance capacity. The approach is judged ideal for couples or small families rather than large groups, with the Ninja 15-in-1 Foodi Max receiving a particularly favorable assessment.

Rachael Penn compares the gas-powered Ooni Koda 2 and Gozney Arc Lite outdoor pizza ovens through repeated tests using the same Margherita pizza. Both reach 500°C, cook pizzas in under two minutes and retain heat well, but the Ooni is easier to set up and clean while requiring frequent rotation and careful positioning to avoid burnt spots. The Gozney’s lateral flame distributes heat more evenly, needs less rotation and delivers more consistently professional results, although it lacks a built-in temperature gauge and is harder to clean. With only £50 separating them, the review recommends the Gozney Arc Lite overall, while positioning the Ooni Koda 2 as the better choice for beginners seeking simplicity and value.

A hands-on comparison of the gas-powered Ooni Koda 2 (£399) and Gozney Arc Lite (£350) finds both compact ovens capable of reaching 500°C and cooking pizzas in under two minutes. The Ooni is easier to set up and clean and suits beginners, but pizzas require frequent rotation and larger than 12 inches can develop burnt spots. The Gozney’s lateral flame distributes heat more evenly, needs less intervention and retains heat well for consecutive pizzas, although it lacks a built-in temperature gauge and is harder to clean. The Gozney Arc Lite is judged the better overall buy, while the Ooni remains a strong lower-cost option for small spaces and first-time users.

Hands-on testing finds that both the Ooni Karu 2 and Ninja Artisan Electric Outdoor Pizza Oven produce excellent 12-inch pizzas in about two minutes and merit five-star ratings, but they suit different users. The Ooni reaches 500°C and delivers superior traditional wood-fired flavour and char, though it requires fire management, frequent pizza rotation and can produce smoke. The Ninja reaches 370°C, heats up more quickly, offers five cooking presets and needs far less supervision, making it better for convenient, consistent cooking and smaller outdoor spaces. The reviewer ultimately prefers the Ooni for its authentic pizza experience, while recommending the Ninja for ease of use and versatility.

Two outdoor pizza ovens, the wood- and charcoal-fuelled Ooni Karu 2 and the electric Ninja artisan, are tested for performance, ease of use, and pizza quality. The Ooni produces highly authentic, charred pizzas at up to 500C but requires more attention, space and fire management. The Ninja reaches lower temperatures but delivers consistently well‑cooked pizzas with minimal effort and is more practical for smaller spaces. Both earn strong praise, but the Ooni is favoured for delivering traditional wood‑fired results.

A comparative test of the Ooni Koda 2 and Gozney Arc Lite examines setup, heat‑up time, cooking performance, design and value. Both compact gas pizza ovens deliver excellent results, but the Gozney Arc Lite is favored for its lateral flame system, even heat distribution and strong heat retention. The Ooni Koda 2 remains a strong, user‑friendly option, particularly for beginners, though it requires more frequent rotation and risks burning larger pizzas. The reviewer concludes that the Arc Lite offers a more premium experience, while the Koda 2 is a dependable entry‑level choice.

Testing of eight air fryers identifies the Kalorik vivid 7-quart air fryer as the top performer for its extensive presets, ease of use, and consistent cooking results. Budget, compact, double‑stack, non‑toxic, toaster‑oven‑style, and smart models are evaluated, highlighting strengths such as quiet operation, storage‑saving designs, glass‑bowl construction, steam infusion, and app‑controlled cooking. Each model’s performance, presets, design, and cleaning demands are compared to help users choose based on capacity, versatility, and price.

A range of kitchen bins was tested for capacity, design, ease of use and value, with the Brabantia bo touch bin ranked best overall for its dual compartments, elevated design and durability. Tower’s 50l sensor bin was highlighted as the top budget option, while Simplehuman’s pedal bin, Eko’s dual-compartment model and VonHaus’s triple recycling bin performed strongly in their respective categories. Testing focused on daily usability, odour control, sturdiness and practicality to help consumers choose the best bin for their household needs.

A range of coolers was tested in high heat to evaluate performance, portability, durability, and usability across various scenarios from camping to picnics. The Magellan Outdoors Pro explore icebox 25Q ranked best overall for its dual-opening lid, strong insulation, and thoughtful features, while the Coleman classic stood out as the top budget option. Premium performance went to the RovR rollr 45 for its rugged build and smooth mobility. Each cooler was evaluated for cooling efficiency, comfort, construction quality, and extra features, resulting in curated recommendations for different needs and budgets.

An expert reviewer compares leading dual air fryers for 2026, assessing cooking performance, capacity, ease of use and value. Ninja’s foodi max leads with strong features and high heat capability, while Beko offers impressive results at a low price. Compact stacked and flexible-drawer models from Cosori, Philips, Tower and Tefal provide space-saving or versatile options. Premium designs from Panasonic and Swan deliver strong cooking performance, with Panasonic adding steam-assisted technology. Models from Russell Hobbs, Daewoo and Asda provide reliable mid-range or budget alternatives. Testing focused on consistency, dual-drawer functionality, usability and cleaning, with findings guiding recommendations for different household needs.

A comprehensive comparison of leading ice cream makers evaluates performance, capacity, convenience and noise levels across pre-freeze and self-freeze models. The Ninja deluxe creami ranks highest for speed and versatility, while budget and compact options such as the Cuisinart solo scoops offer strong value. High-capacity and self-freezing models from Caso, ProCook and Sage suit users seeking convenience and larger batch sizes. Key considerations include freezer space, preparation time, machine size and desired ice cream consistency.

Testing across a range of machines identified the Ninja luxe café premier as the strongest all-round coffee maker, offering espresso, drip coffee, and cold brew with high performance and useful accessories. Budget and single‑serve options like L’Or and Chefman provide strong value, while Keurig’s brew and chill stands out for iced coffee capability. Higher-end models from Breville and Profitec deliver premium espresso quality, and fully automated systems like the Philips lattego offer convenience with some usability drawbacks. Preferences ultimately depend on desired drink type, budget, and ease of use.

HexClad’s hybrid cookware range is tested across multiple pans and consistently delivers strong heat distribution, versatility and easy cleaning. The pans combine stainless‑steel searing with non‑stick convenience, making them suitable for varied home cooking needs. While premium in price, they are considered durable and high‑performing, aided by the new TerraBond ceramic-based coating following earlier marketing controversy over PTFE claims. Recommendations highlight the 30cm wok, 20cm and 25cm frying pans, and the roasting pan as standout pieces, with overall value dependent on budget and proper care.

A comprehensive expert review compares top pizza ovens across categories including outdoor, indoor, budget, wood‑fired, premium and multifunction models. Performance, heat‑up times, ease of use, build quality and versatility are evaluated through standardized cooking tests. Gozney’s arc lite leads outdoor options, Ooni’s volt 2 tops indoor models and Casa Mia delivers strong budget value. Premium and specialty ovens from Gozney, Ooni, Cuisinart, Ninja and Sage earn praise for consistent heat, fast cooking and high‑quality results, while portability and ease of setup distinguish models from Delivita and George Foreman. Guidance on fuel types, temperature control and pizza‑oven operation is also provided.

A range of rice cookers was tested for performance, ease of use, versatility, capacity, and cleaning. The Nutribullet everygrain cooker ranked highest for consistent results and strong features, while budget, compact, multifunctional and stovetop options from Morphy Richards, Lakeland, Cosori, Staub and Ninja each excelled for specific household needs. Cooking quality, speed, and practicality guided the final recommendations.

Non-stick pans degrade over time, and damaged coatings can release microplastics, prompting experts to advise replacement when scratches, chips, peeling, bubbling, warping or persistent food sticking appear. Heat damage, improper care and age contribute to deterioration, and pans used frequently typically last between one and five years depending on quality. While modern PTFE coatings are considered safe under normal use, emerging research on microplastics reinforces the importance of replacing heavily worn pans. Proper care such as avoiding metal utensils, handwashing, moderate heat and careful storage can extend their lifespan, and buyers are encouraged to choose well-constructed pans suited to their cooking needs.

A comparative review of 14 non-stick frying pans evaluates performance, heat distribution, ease of cleaning and value across a range of materials and price points. ProChef's hexguard pan is highlighted as the best overall, with strong affordability and performance. Budget, mid-range and premium offerings from brands such as Asda, HexClad, Zyliss, Smeg, Fissler and Miele are assessed, noting strengths and drawbacks including heat tolerance, non-stick effectiveness and durability. Additional guidance is provided on pan safety, maintenance, cleaning and lifespan, emphasizing how to choose and care for non-stick cookware.

A comparative review of leading floor mops highlights performance, ease of use, and value across various mop types, from spray and microfibre designs to steam and electric models. The Vileda turbo smart spin mop leads overall for its cleaning power and usability, while budget, hardwood‑specific, and ergonomic options offer strong alternatives. Testing focused on real‑world dirt, handling, extra features, and maintenance to help consumers choose the most effective mop for their cleaning needs.

Using a Ninja air fryer, a full roast dinner can be prepared efficiently with quicker cooking times and crisp results, provided the process is planned and the air fryer has adequate capacity. Meat, vegetables and sides can be cooked in stages, with foil and a slow cooker helping to keep items warm. Batch cooking prevents overcrowding, and cleaning as you go reduces effort. The method suits small households, and high-performing models like the Ninja 15-in-one and Cosori dual air fryer offer effective results.

A detailed comparison of leading stainless steel pans evaluates heat distribution, ease of cleaning, durability and value across multiple brands. ProChef’s HexGuard range stands out for overall performance and price, while Cuisinart offers the most versatile full set and Le Creuset provides a premium long‑lasting option. Zwilling excels for batch cooking, M&S offers the best large pan and several brands such as ProCook, Stellar and Denby provide strong individual choices for building customised sets. Testing focused on real‑world cooking performance, boiling speed and usability, offering guidance for buyers seeking durable, efficient cookware.

The Ninja Crispi Pro air fryer is presented as a major upgrade over the original model, offering larger capacity, improved cooking functions and a modular glass-bowl design that simplifies preparation, cooking, storage and reheating. Its performance impressed across a wide range of dishes, particularly due to its high maximum temperature, versatile modes and clear glass bowls. Cleaning is notably easy, and despite minor drawbacks such as the lack of a built-in light and a short adjustment period for the modular system, it is described as the best air fryer the reviewer has tested. The review concludes that the Crispi Pro offers strong value for money and is well suited for households of various sizes, with the maxcrisp function standing out as a compelling reason to upgrade.

A range of air fryer cookbooks was tested across criteria including recipe variety, clarity, ease of use and accuracy. Jenny Tschiesche’s The Unprocessed Air Fryer emerged as the top pick for healthy, everyday meals, while Poppy O’Toole’s book stood out for modern comfort food and originality. Other highlighted options include family-friendly collections, calorie‑conscious guides, quick‑cook recipe sets and beginner‑focused cookbooks. Each title offers distinct strengths, from sustainability insights to detailed cooking charts, helping home cooks choose the best book based on skill level, dietary needs and desired convenience.

Comparative testing of eight slow cookers identifies top options for different household needs, assessing cooking performance, ease of use, functions, cleaning and value. The Cosori 5l model ranks highest for versatility and consistency, followed by strong performers from Ninja, InstantPot and Cooks Professional. Energy efficiency and size considerations are also outlined, along with guidance on cooking times and key slow-cooker features.

Reviews multiple pet vacuum cleaners tested in a home with two dogs, comparing suction, battery life, filtration, attachments and ease of use. Shark’s Stratos Pet Pro ranks as the top overall choice, with strong suction and anti‑odour features. Dyson’s V15s Detect Submarine is highlighted for combined vacuuming and mopping, while Beldray’s AirGility Pet Max stands out as a strong budget option. Additional models from Vax, Tineco, Ultenic and Samsung are evaluated for factors such as smart features, filtration systems and battery performance, offering recommendations for different needs and budgets.

Electric heaters of various types were tested across multiple room sizes to evaluate heat output, efficiency, safety and ease of use. The Dreamland pure air fan heater emerged as the top overall choice for its quick heating and air‑purifying features. Budget‑friendly and compact options such as the Beldray fan heater and Draper space heater performed well for smaller areas, while premium models like the Dyson HP1 offered strong all‑round performance with air‑quality monitoring. Smart and ceramic heaters from Duux and versatile bladeless designs from Vortex provided additional features such as app control and cooling functions. Larger rooms benefitted from the Daewoo convector heater, while the VonHaus stove heater offered a cosy aesthetic alongside strong heating. Guidance on running costs and selection criteria emphasised performance, safety and value for money.

Comparative testing of leading saucepan sets identifies strong performers across multiple price points, evaluating heat distribution, build quality, ease of cleaning, versatility, and storage. Stellar’s tri‑ply design and consistent cooking make it the top overall choice, while Fissler offers premium performance for higher budgets. Salter and Lakeland provide effective, affordable alternatives, with other sets catering to space‑saving needs, beginners, or serious home cooks.

A range of draught excluders was tested in a Victorian terrace house to identify effective options for reducing cold air and improving energy efficiency. Products vary from decorative weighted styles to practical foam models and chimney-specific designs, with standout performers including the Rex London sausage dog and the Chimney Sheep chimney excluder. Key evaluation factors included effectiveness, durability and ease of maintenance, with several machine‑washable or reversible options offering added convenience.

A comprehensive hands-on review compares leading toaster models for 2025, evaluating toasting performance, speed, versatility, ease of use, design and cleaning. The Salter alchemy is highlighted as the best overall for its consistent results, speed and value. Models from Smeg, ProCook, Sage, Tefal, Lakeland, Morphy Richards and Toastly are assessed for suitability across different bread types, household needs and desired features, with recommendations tailored to budget shoppers, families, lovers of long slices and fans of smart kitchen gadgets.

A comparative review evaluates the Ninja Creami Deluxe and Cuisinart Freeze Wand ice cream makers. The Ninja offers greater capacity, more functions and faster, hands‑off operation but is large, loud and costly. The Cuisinart is compact, quiet and affordable, though it requires manual control and produces smaller portions. Both create high‑quality frozen desserts, but the Ninja is the superior option for versatility, while the Cuisinart is a strong budget choice.

Several manual can openers were tested for ease of use, comfort, cutting performance, durability and design. The Oxo good grips soft-handled model was rated best overall for reliable cutting and comfortable grip. ProCook offered strong performance at a budget price, while the Kuhn Rikon master opener provided versatile multi‑tool functionality. Zwilling’s stainless steel opener delivered smooth cuts in a stylish, space‑saving design but required more grip strength. Stellar’s suregrip opener was highlighted for accessibility, offering large non‑slip handles suited to users with dexterity issues.

A comprehensive comparison of hand mixers tested for power, ease of use, attachments, noise levels and value highlights Cuisinart’s power advantage model as the top performer for versatility and strength. Daewoo’s essentials mixer stands out as the best budget option, while premium and specialised picks such as the Dualit, Salter Kuro, Laura Ashley and Daewoo cordless models offer advantages ranging from compact storage to high power and cordless convenience.

A range of casserole dishes across materials and price points were tested for performance, ease of use and versatility. The Our Place perfect pot was ranked best overall for its multifunctionality, lightweight build and efficient heat distribution. ProCook’s large cast-iron dish was recommended for families, while Le Creuset remained a strong premium option. Other notable picks included eco-friendly clay designs, budget-friendly stoneware and stylish aluminium models, offering suitable choices for different cooking needs and preferences.