Air Fryer Potato Wedges: Can I Make Them?

Yes, you can make potato wedges in an air fryer! They're a great, healthier alternative to deep-fried wedges, with a fluffy inside and a golden, crispy outside.

How long to soak the potatoes for

Soaking the potatoes before air frying is an important step in achieving the perfect potato wedges. This process helps to remove excess starch, which can make the wedges soft and crumbly. By soaking the potatoes, you are ensuring that they will turn out crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

The ideal soaking time for potato wedges is around 30 minutes. Begin by placing the cut potato wedges in a bowl and covering them with cold water. Leave them to soak for 30 minutes. After this initial soak, drain the water and return the wedges to the bowl. Cover them again, this time with boiling or very hot water, and let them sit for another 10 to 15 minutes. Finally, drain the wedges and pat them dry with a clean towel.

While soaking the potatoes is not strictly necessary, it is highly recommended if you want to achieve the crispiest results. If you are short on time, you can skip the soaking step, but your wedges may not turn out as crispy.

How long to cook them for

The cooking time for potato wedges in an air fryer varies depending on the crispiness you desire and the size of the wedges. For example, one source recommends cooking them for 10 minutes, tossing them, and then cooking for another 5 minutes for maximum crispiness. Another source recommends cooking them for 30-40 minutes, tossing them every 10 minutes.

A good rule of thumb is to first air fry the potato wedges at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes to ensure the insides are cooked without burning the outsides. Then, increase the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for another 15 minutes or so, tossing the wedges every 5 minutes, until they are crispy.

If you are in a hurry, you can cook the wedges for a minimum of 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, shaking the air fryer basket halfway through. If you are using a recipe that includes parboiling the potatoes, the air frying time will be shorter, around 15-20 minutes.

The best type of potatoes to use

While any potato variety will work for wedges, starchy potatoes are generally considered to produce the best results. This is because they have a higher starch content, which makes for extra-fluffy interiors, and they crisp up beautifully. Examples of starchy potatoes include Russet potatoes, King Edward, Maris Piper, and Yukon Golds. However, it is important to note that Yukon Gold potatoes will result in denser wedges. On the other hand, waxy potatoes, such as fingerlings, should be avoided as they do not hold up well during cooking.

For the best results, it is recommended to use potatoes that are 5 inches or less in length. Longer potato wedges tend to break apart when tossed in the air fryer.

How to cut the potatoes into wedges

To cut a potato into wedges, first cut the potato in half lengthwise. Then, place the cut side of the potato onto the cutting board and cut it in half again to create quarters. Repeat this step with the other half.

Now, place each potato quarter cut side down and cut lengthwise again. For larger wedges, cut each quarter in half. For smaller wedges, cut each quarter into thirds. Repeat this step with the remaining quarters until the entire potato is cut into wedges.

It is important to try to keep the wedges as close to the same size as possible to ensure even cooking. You can also peel the potatoes before cutting if desired.

How to season the potatoes

Preparing potato wedges in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a tasty snack. Here are some tips on how to season your potatoes to perfection:

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Select starchy potatoes such as russet potatoes or Yukon Golds. These varieties will give you perfect results with fluffy interiors. Avoid waxy potatoes like fingerlings, as they won't hold up well during the cooking process.

Rinsing and Soaking

Before seasoning and air frying, it is recommended to rinse and soak your potato wedges. This process helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier wedges. Swish the wedges in a bowl of cold water, drain, and repeat until the water runs clear. Then, cover the potatoes with very hot water and let them soak for about 10 minutes. This step softens the potatoes for even cooking.

Seasoning Options

Now comes the fun part—seasoning your potatoes! You can go creative with the spices in your pantry. Here are some seasoning combinations to consider:

• Savory mixture: Paprika, parsley, chili, salt, and pepper. You can also add cayenne pepper for extra spice or rosemary for an earthy twist.
• Cajun seasoning: Sprinkle a Cajun seasoning blend for a spicy kick. Reduce the amount of salt you add, as Cajun seasoning usually contains salt.
• Taco seasoning: A blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano. You can also use a store-bought taco seasoning mix.
• Truffle seasoning: Indulge in a fancy version with truffle salt, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley for garnish.
• Ranch seasoning: A tasty trio of onion powder, garlic powder, and dried dill.
• Spicy kick: If you like it hot, add some spice with chili powder or cayenne pepper.
• Simple and salty: Sometimes, less is more. You can stick to plain, salty wedges that go well with various dipping sauces.

Mixing and Cooking

After seasoning, mix the potatoes well to ensure even coating. Then, follow the standard air fryer cooking procedure for potato wedges.

Frequently asked questions