Craving golden, crispy fries without the guilt? Look no further than these air fryer french fries! This recipe delivers all the satisfying crunch without the need for a deep fryer. Say goodbye to excess oil and hello to a healthier, flavor-packed alternative.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (russet or any frying-suitable variety)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Preheat the Air Fryer: Get your air fryer ready for action by preheating it to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
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Prepare the Potato Stars:
- Wash and scrub your potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Peeling is optional, but leaving the skin adds texture and flavor.
- Cut the potatoes into evenly sized fries, aiming for strips around 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Soak for Extra Crisp (Optional):
If you have some extra time, consider soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, potentially leading to even crispier fries.
- Dry Thoroughly for Maximum Crisp:
Soaked or not, thoroughly dry the potato strips with paper towels to remove any lingering moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispy texture.
- Season Like a Pro:
In a large bowl, toss the dried potato strips with your chosen oil (olive or vegetable) until they’re evenly coated. Now, it’s time for the flavor party! Season the potatoes with garlic powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to your taste.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
Arrange the seasoned potato strips in a single layer within the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overcrowd each other. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you might need to cook them in batches. Air fry the fries at the preheated temperature of 380°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even crisping. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
- Serve and Savor!
Once your fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a waiting serving dish. These beauties are best enjoyed immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup, mayonnaise, or aioli. Dive in and enjoy your crispy, delicious homemade air fryer french fries!
Cooking Time:
- Preheating the air fryer: 5 minutes
- Air Frying the fries: 15-20 minutes (shaking halfway through)
Forget greasy takeout and frozen disappointment! These air fryer fries are the perfect way to satisfy your french fry cravings without sacrificing flavor or health. With minimal prep and a cook time of just 20-25 minutes, you can have crispy, restaurant-worthy fries on your table in no time. So ditch the deep fryer, preheat your air fryer, and get ready to experience french fry perfection at home!
