Air Fryer Potatoes: Can You Fry Spuds?

Canned potatoes are a convenient, easy, and inexpensive way to make a delicious side dish. They can be cooked in an air fryer in just a few minutes and are perfect for any meal. The cooking method is simple: drain the potatoes, add oil and seasoning, and cook in the air fryer until golden brown and crispy. The result is potatoes that are golden and crispy on the outside, while soft and fluffy on the inside.

How to prepare potatoes for air frying

Preparing potatoes for air frying is a simple process, and the results are delicious. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving perfect air-fried potatoes:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Potatoes

Select potatoes that are uniform in size, free from blemishes, and have thin skin, which will result in a crispier texture. Baby potatoes, also known as "new" potatoes, are a great option as they have thinner skin. Other suitable varieties include fingerlings, Yukon golds, baby russets, and baby red potatoes.

Step 2: Washing and Cutting

Thoroughly wash the potatoes, especially if you plan to leave the skin on for added crispiness. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces. For baby potatoes, cut them in half; for larger potatoes, cut them into 1-inch pieces. Cutting the potatoes into similar sizes ensures even cooking.

Step 3: Seasoning

In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with your desired seasonings. You can use a variety of seasonings like olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also experiment with different combinations, such as Cajun, Mexican, or Greek-inspired blends. Don't be afraid to get creative!

Step 4: Preheating the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to achieve maximum crispiness. If using a basket-style air fryer, preheat it to 400°F. For a toaster-style air fryer, set the temperature to 375°F. Preheat for about 5 minutes if you have time; otherwise, you can start cooking right away.

Step 5: Cooking the Potatoes

Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking. For baby potatoes, you can simply poke them with a fork to allow steam to escape. Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes, then shake or stir them for even browning. Return the potatoes to the air fryer and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.

Step 6: Serving

Air-fried potatoes make a delicious side dish and can be served with a variety of main courses. For a simple yet tasty garnish, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the potatoes before serving. You can also serve them with a dip, such as ranch dressing or guacamole, for an appetizer. Enjoy!

How to cook potatoes in an air fryer

Air-frying potatoes is a convenient, easy, and inexpensive way to make a delicious side dish. The air fryer gives potatoes a crispy, golden brown texture on the outside, while keeping them soft and fluffy on the inside.

Ingredients:

• Canned potatoes (or tinned potatoes)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Dried rosemary
• Dried parsley
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit (195 degrees Celsius).
• Drain the potatoes from the can and rinse them under cold running water.
• Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels.
• Toss the potatoes in a bowl with olive oil and your chosen seasonings.
• Add the seasoned potatoes to the air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking spray.
• Air fry for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Turn the potatoes over halfway through the cooking time.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips:

• Rinsing the potatoes helps to reduce the sodium content.
• For even cooking, ensure the potatoes are a similar size. Cut larger potatoes into halves or quarters if needed.
• Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your potatoes. Smaller potatoes may need less time to cook.
• For extra crispy potatoes, add a little extra oil after turning them over halfway through cooking.

How to store cooked potatoes

Storing cooked potatoes is a straightforward process, but it's important to follow food safety guidelines to ensure your potatoes stay fresh and delicious. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to store cooked potatoes:

Step 1: Allow the Cooked Potatoes to Cool

Before storing your cooked potatoes, let them cool down to room temperature. Placing hot potatoes directly into the fridge can be unsafe and may affect their texture and taste. It's best to let them cool on a cooling rack or a clean countertop for about an hour.

Step 2: Choose the Right Storage Container

Once your potatoes have cooled, it's time to choose an appropriate storage container. For short-term storage, you can use an airtight container or a bowl covered with plastic wrap. If you plan to store the potatoes for more than a day or two, it's best to use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent bacteria growth.

Step 3: Refrigerate the Cooked Potatoes

Place the container of potatoes in the refrigerator. Cooked potatoes should be stored at a temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C to 4.4°C). The lower temperature range will help keep them fresh for longer.

Step 4: Consume Within a Few Days

Cooked potatoes can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. After that, they may start to dry out or develop an unpleasant texture. It's best to consume them within 2 to 3 days for optimal taste and texture.

Step 5: Reheat and Serve

When you're ready to enjoy your stored potatoes, simply take them out of the refrigerator and reheat them. You can reheat them in the air fryer, oven, microwave, or stovetop. Make sure they are heated thoroughly before serving.

Remember, it's important to practice good food safety habits when storing and handling cooked potatoes. Wash your hands before handling food, use clean utensils and containers, and always trust your senses. If the potatoes show signs of spoilage, such as an unpleasant odour or discolouration, it's best to discard them.

What to serve with air-fried potatoes

Air-fried potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of mains. Here are some ideas on what to serve with air-fried potatoes:

Classic Pairings

A juicy chicken breast or steak is a classic pairing with potatoes. The rich taste of the meat will complement the savoury flavours of the potatoes.

Fish

Air-fried salmon is a great option to serve with potatoes. The light, flaky texture of the fish will contrast nicely with the hearty potatoes.

Vegetables

For a smoky twist, serve your air-fried potatoes with roasted vegetables. You can also add them to soups and stews for extra heartiness or use them as a base for a creamy potato salad.

Burgers

Black bean burgers or veggie burgers will also go well with air-fried potatoes.

Soups

Serve your air-fried potatoes with a bowl of butternut squash soup or broccoli cheddar soup.

Eggs

Try serving air-fried potatoes with a quiche or frittata for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

Holiday Menu

Air-fried potatoes can also be added to a holiday menu with classic dishes like stuffing and green bean casserole.

What oil is best for air-frying potatoes?

When it comes to air-frying potatoes, the type of oil you use can make a difference in the taste and texture of your final dish. Here are some recommendations and tips for choosing the best oil for air-frying potatoes:

Olive Oil

Olive oil is a popular choice for air-frying potatoes. It has a relatively high smoke point of 410°F (210°C), which means it can withstand the high temperatures of an air fryer without smoking or burning. Olive oil also adds a nice flavour to the potatoes and helps them crisp up nicely. However, it's important to use extra virgin olive oil, as it has a higher smoke point than regular olive oil.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is another good option for air-frying potatoes. It has a mild flavour that won't overpower the taste of the potatoes. Avocado oil also has a high smoke point, typically ranging from 400°F to 520°F (204°C to 271°C), making it suitable for the high temperatures of an air fryer.

Canola Oil

Canola oil is a neutral-flavoured oil with a high smoke point, usually between 400°F and 450°F (204°C and 232°C). This makes it a good choice for air-frying potatoes, as it can withstand the heat without breaking down. Canola oil also has a relatively long shelf life compared to other oils.

Vegetable Oil

Vegetable oil is often recommended for air-frying potatoes because it can help make them crispier. It has a high smoke point, typically around 400°F (204°C), which makes it suitable for the high temperatures of an air fryer. Vegetable oil is also inexpensive and readily available in most grocery stores.

Amount of Oil to Use

When air-frying potatoes, it's important to use just enough oil to coat the potatoes lightly. Start with a small amount, such as a tablespoon, and toss the potatoes to coat them evenly. You can always add more oil if needed, but it's important not to use too much, as it can make the potatoes greasy.

Other Tips

• Soaking potatoes in water before air frying can help remove excess starch and improve crispness.
• Preheat your air fryer for best results.
• Flip or shake the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust the cooking time depending on the size of your potato pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
• Experiment with different oils and seasonings to find the combination you like best.

Frequently asked questions