Forget greasy, soggy fries! Learn how to make crispy, golden-brown French fries in your air fryer with this easy guide. Air fryer French fries are a healthier, quicker alternative to deep-fried versions, and they taste amazing!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 2 large russet potatoes: Russets are ideal for fries due to their high starch content.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides crispiness and flavor. You can also use avocado oil or another high-heat oil.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spice (optional).
- Optional seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper – get creative!
Step-by-Step Guide to Air Fryer French Fries:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and peel: Wash your potatoes thoroughly and peel them if desired. Leaving the skins on adds extra fiber and nutrients.
- Cut into fries: Cut the potatoes into even-sized fries, about ½ inch thick. Consistency in size ensures even cooking. Aim for a length that comfortably fits in your air fryer basket.
- Soak (Optional): Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries. Drain well before proceeding.
2. Toss with Oil and Seasonings:
- Preheat your air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy exterior.
- Add oil and seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Ensure the fries are evenly coated.
3. Air Fry in Batches:
- Avoid overcrowding: Overcrowding the air fryer basket will result in unevenly cooked fries. Work in batches, ensuring there's enough space for air to circulate around each fry.
- Cook time: Cook the fries for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even browning. Cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer and the thickness of your fries.
- Check for doneness: The fries are ready when they are golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve immediately: Air fryer fries are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. They’ll lose their crispness if left to sit for too long.
- Dipping sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces – ketchup, mayonnaise, aioli, BBQ sauce – the possibilities are endless!
Tips for Extra Crispy Air Fryer French Fries:
- Don't overcrowd the basket: This is the most important tip for achieving crispy fries.
- Shake the basket halfway through: This ensures even cooking and browning.
- Use a higher fat oil: Oils with a higher smoke point, like avocado or canola oil, will produce crispier fries.
- Experiment with seasonings: Get creative and try different spice blends to find your perfect flavor combination. Consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for a unique twist.
- Double frying (optional): For extra crispy fries, you can par-fry the potatoes at a lower temperature (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes before increasing the temperature to 400°F for the final crisp.
Why Air Fryer French Fries Are Better:
- Healthier: Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, resulting in healthier fries with fewer calories and less fat.
- Faster: Air fryer French fries cook much faster than oven-baked fries.
- Easier cleanup: Cleaning up after air frying is a breeze compared to deep frying.
- Crispy perfection: Air frying delivers crispy, golden-brown fries every time.
Now you're ready to make delicious, crispy air fryer French fries! Enjoy!
