LPG, Induction, Air fryer, or Microwave: Which is cheaper and efficient to cook with

Kitchen gadgets and appliances have made cooking easier. From LPG gas stoves and microwaves to induction cooktops and air fryers, the Indian kitchen is a flavorful battleground where every technology makes the everyday war easier. But sadly the ongoing raging war in West Asia involving Iran, Israel and the United States is now beginning to affect Indian kitchens, as disruptions in LPG supply linked to the conflict hit cities and the hospitality sector. The sudden crisis has led to concerns about shifting to LPG stove alternatives. Here we will comparatively study all four appliances to determine which one is cheaper and more efficient.

According to Virat Kapoor, Brand Owner of Sammy Sosa, CBD Belapur, the sudden LPG cylinder shortage has caught much of the restaurant industry off guard, especially since commercial kitchens rely on specialized burners and higher-pressure systems that cannot easily switch to domestic cylinders. The absence of a minimum safety stock or priority allocation for the hospitality sector makes such disruptions particularly difficult to manage. Restaurants are now exploring alternatives like electric and induction cooking, but this shift requires infrastructure changes and operational adjustments. Greater transparency and advance communication from authorities would help the industry plan better and avoid significant disruption to businesses and employment.

It is the most commonly used cooking method in Indian hosueholds.It provides direct flame heating, which makes them versatile for a wide range of dishes including rotis, curries, frying, and boiling.

Pros: The best thing is, it has no connection with electricity, and is easy to control the heat and flame. Also, it is the most traditional cooking method used across India.

Cons: The rising prices of LPG cylinder and the shortage of cylinder hits the pocket of commoners. Also, the mechanism with which the gas stove works some heat is lost around the vessel. It is said to have only 40–60% heat efficiency.

This one has been popular for decades and thanks to cookery shows, it became a household name. It uses electromagnetic waves that heat water molecules inside the food, making them very quick for reheating and simple cooking tasks.

Pros: It is very convenient for quick and small meals. Conumes less power compared to induction and works on extemely fast heating method. It is best for reheating food and for baking purposes.

Cons: It also requires microwave safe bowls and plates. It has limited cooking options, where many traditional Indian dishes like roti or paratha cannot be prepared. It works on moderate heating method, but efficient for small portions and reheating.

It cooks food using rapid hot air circulation, which mimics deep frying but uses very little oil. It has become popular as a healthy alternative to deep-frying an offers very similar taste to it without using excessive oil.

Pros: It uses very litle oil, is perfect for small portions of snacks and roasted treats. It is very portable and fits in small place too. Also, it is very easy to use and clean.

Cons: It calls for higher electricity consumption and is not suitable for everyday cooking like dal, chawal, or roti and larger portions. When it comes to efficiency, it is moderate and depends on usage.

This one has been popular for decades and thanks to cookery shows, it became a household name. It uses electromagnetic waves that heat water molecules inside the food, making them very quick for reheating and simple cooking tasks.

Pros: It is very convenient for quick and small meals. Conumes less power compared to induction and works on extemely fast heating method. It is best for reheating food and for baking purposes.

Cons: It also requires microwave safe bowls and plates. It has limited cooking options, where many traditional Indian dishes like roti or paratha cannot be prepared. It works on moderate heating method, but efficient for small portions and reheating.

From the energy usage perspective, induction cooktop is the most effective one, as it transfers heat directly to the vessel with minimal energy loss and hence cooks faster. But when it comes to cost and which one makes the cheapest, LPG gas stove is the winner, as it is perfect for traditional Indian dishes. And microwave is best for quick reheating and for small portion for healthy snacking, air fryer is the perfect choice.

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