Air fryers are seriously awesome. They totally nail that crispy texture we all love, especially with fries. They manage to make them even crunchier and less greasy, which means fewer calories and a tad healthier than the classic deep-frying method. And let’s not forget about other goodies like wings and bacon – seriously, the crispiest bacon I’ve ever had was cooked in an air fryer!
At home, whipping up air fryer fries is my go-to comfort food. They’re super easy to make, ready in no time, and that crunch is just unbeatable. Plus, they beat the pants off any fast-food version and can customize them to your liking. So yeah, they’re pretty much a guilty pleasure
How to Make Air Fryer Fries Extra Crispy
Air frying by itself gives crispier results than deep frying, but what if you want them extra crispier without burning them off?
Start by peeling and cutting potatoes into fries. Rinse them to remove excess starch, then soak them in vinegar water to maintain flexibility and prevent breakage. After drying, coat the fries in oil, season, and salt them. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C), then cook the fries for 25 minutes, turning halfway through.
The key to crispiness lies in thorough washing to eliminate starch, preventing fries from sticking together and becoming soggy.
Up to three washes are recommended for optimal results.
Vinegar water helps maintain the fries’ shape during cooking and adds a subtle tangy flavor, crucial for preventing breakage, especially with thin cuts. Using russet or Idaho potatoes will guarantee good results.
Though fries with their skins on boast more nutrients and richness, for an optimal crunch, peeling them is necessary.
Air Fryer Fries Ingredients
Ingredients needed are so basic you probably have them in your fridge or pantry already!
- Potatoes
- Oil
- Salt
- Seasoning
- Black Pepper
Idaho or russet potatoes are dense and have less moisture, which is key to avoiding soggy fries. While you can still use Yukon Gold, they will give a waxier and creamier center and they are flavorful but they are difficult to crunch. Red potatoes are not recommended.
As for the oil anything from olive is okay, but a neutral oil like peanut, canola, sunflower, or vegetable oil is recommended, if you want more flavor then opt for animal fats such as duck fat, tallow, and lard( in that order of preference).
For seasoning use your favorite, but I highly recommend Knorr Aromat Original, it is so iconic never had anything come close to it
Procedure
- Wash and peel potatoes.
- Slice potatoes lengthwise into sheets then cut into fries.
- Ensure cuts are 6 mm (1/4″) thick for even cooking.
- Rinse potato cuts at least three times until water is clear and no longer starchy.
- Submerge fries in water, add 1 teaspoon of vinegar, and mix.
- Soak for at least 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
- Preheat the airfryer for about 3 minutes.
- Drain vinegar water and pat the fries dry.
- Toss fries in a bowl with oil, salt, and spices until evenly coated.
- Place fries in preheated airfryer.
- Airfry for 15 minutes, then shake the basket.
- Continue air frying for another 7-10 minutes until desired crispiness and color.
- Serve hot with dipping sauces if desired.
Crispy Air Fryer French Fries
Equipment
- 1 Air Fryer
Ingredients
- 3 medium Potatoes
- 1 tsp Vinegar (Any Type)
- 2 tbsp Cooking Oil
- Salt
- Seasoning OPTIONAL
- Black Pepper OPTIONAL
Instructions
- Wash and Peel Potatoes:Thoroughly wash the potatoes to remove any dirt. Peeling is optional but recommended for a smoother texture:Clean potatoes ensure no contaminants and even cooking, while peeling reduces bitterness from the skin.
- Cut into Fries:Slice the potatoes lengthwise into sheets about 6 mm (1/4") thick. Then, cut these sheets into uniform fries.Theory: Uniform thickness ensures even cooking, preventing some fries from being overcooked while others are undercooked.
- Rinse Thoroughly:Rinse the potato cuts at least three times until the water runs clear, removing excess starch.Theory: Removing starch prevents fries from sticking together and promotes crispiness during cooking.
- Soak in Vinegar Water:Submerge the fries in water and add 1 teaspoon of vinegar. Mix well and let soak for at least 10 minutes.Theory: Vinegar helps break down the starches further and adds a subtle flavor, contributing to a crisper exterior.
- Preheat the Airfryer:Preheat your airfryer to temperature for about 3 minutes.Theory: Preheating ensures the airfryer is at the optimal temperature for immediate cooking, promoting a better texture.
- Drain and Dry:Drain the vinegar water and pat the fries thoroughly dry with a clean towel.Theory: Dry fries are essential for achieving a crisp exterior, as excess moisture can cause steaming instead of frying.
- Toss with Oil and Seasonings:In a large bowl, toss the fries with 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil, salt, and your chosen spices until evenly coated.Theory: Oil helps the seasonings stick and promotes browning, while seasoning and spices add flavor.
- Airfry the Fries:Transfer the fries to the airfryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 180°C (356°F) for 15 minutes. Theory: Cooking in a single layer ensures even air circulation around each fry, promoting uniform cooking.
- Shake and Continue Cooking:Shake the basket to redistribute the fries and air fry for another 7-10 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness and color.Theory: Shaking the basket ensures all sides of the fries are exposed to the hot air, preventing uneven cooking.
- Serve Hot:Serve the fries immediately while hot, with your favorite dipping sauces.Theory: Fries are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Notes
- Assuming this recipe serves 2 people, each serving would be approximately 250 calories.
Links
Melted Perfection Grilled Cheese: All you Need to Know
Why an Air Fryer is a Must-Have Appliance
What are Somen Noodles, And Ways to Cook Them
Fall-Off-The Bone Oxtail Recipe(Cow’s Tail)
