How To Reheat Fries And Keep Them Crispy

There are several ways to reheat fries, but one method should be avoided at all costs: the microwave. Microwaving fries will leave them soggy and sad. Instead, you can use an air fryer, oven, skillet, or deep fryer. The best method for you will depend on the volume of fries you want to reheat and the equipment you have available.

Reheating fries in an air fryer

To reheat your fries in an air fryer, first preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket or tray, leaving some space between each fry to allow for air circulation. If you have a lot of fries, you may need to cook them in batches. Finally, cook the fries for 2-5 minutes, depending on their thickness. If you're reheating thinner fries, they'll cook faster, while thicker fries will take a minute or two longer.

If you notice that your fries aren't getting crispy after 3 minutes, try turning up the heat to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. All air fryers work differently, so you may need to experiment a little to find the perfect settings for your fries.

It's important to note that leftover fries will only stay good in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days. For the best texture, it's recommended to eat them within 2 days.

Reheating fries in an oven

To reheat your fries in the oven, start by preheating your oven to 400-450°F (205-230°C). You can also preheat a baking sheet lined with aluminium foil in the oven at the same time. Once the oven is heated up, carefully remove the baking sheet and spread your fries out in a single, even layer. Check on your fries after about five minutes. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your fries and the amount you are reheating.

Oven-roasted fries will take longer to cook than some other reheating methods, but the end result is worth it. You'll get super-crisp and crunchy fries on the outside, while the inside will be incredibly fluffy. Just add a little extra sprinkle of salt, and they'll taste almost as good as fresh fries!

If you're looking for a faster way to reheat your fries, an air fryer is a good option. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (177°C) and arrange your fries in a single layer in the basket or tray. Cook for about 2-3 minutes and then serve with your favourite sauces.

Reheating fries in a deep fryer

While leftover fries will rarely taste as good as the first time, there are ways to reheat them that can bring them close to their former glory. The best methods for reheating fries are those that avoid inducing steam, which will make them soggy. Therefore, it is best to avoid microwaving them at all costs.

One of the best ways to reheat fries is to use a deep fryer. This method works because of its cooking speed. The hot oil warms the fry's surface, while continuing to conduct heat to its interior, creating a hot middle and crunchy exterior in seconds.

• Prep your deep fryer. Fill the fryer with canola oil. Heat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Carefully lower the fries into the fryer. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer.
• Cook the fries for 1-2 minutes. They should be crisp and hot by this point.
• Remove the fries from the fryer immediately and drain them on paper towels.
• Taste and add salt if needed. Cold, leftover fries will have already been seasoned, but they may need more salt after being reheated.

Other methods for reheating fries include using an air fryer, a super-hot oven, or a skillet. However, these methods may require more time and may not yield the same level of crispiness as using a deep fryer.

Reheating fries in a skillet

• Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.
• Pour in a few tablespoons of oil. You can use olive oil or another type of oil, such as canola or sunflower seed oil.
• Add the desired amount of fries to the pan. It is important not to overcrowd the pan, so cook in batches if necessary.
• Cook the fries, stirring and flipping them frequently, for about 3-5 minutes, or until they reach your desired crispness.
• If you have a large quantity of fries, heat them in batches so that they form a single layer in the pan. This will help them crisp up more efficiently and prevent steam from being trapped.
• For an extra boost of flavor, toss the fries with seasonings like garlic powder, truffle oil, chopped parsley, or Parmesan cheese after they are finished cooking.

While this method may not produce the crispiest fries, it is a quick and effective way to reheat them without drying them out.

Reheating fries in a microwave

To reheat fries in the microwave:

• Allow the fries to reach room temperature.
• Very lightly dampen one to three pieces of paper towel using water.
• Place the fries on a plate and layer them with moistened paper towels.
• Microwave for 20 seconds.
• Eat, or continue microwaving for 20-second intervals until you reach your desired temperature.

Always keep an eye on food that is being reheated in the microwave, and be aware that not all microwaves or fries are created equally. For example, smaller fries will need less time than larger wedges.

Frequently asked questions