Air Fryer Homemade Fries: Quick, Crispy, And Delicious!

Homemade Fries in the Air Fryer

Making fries in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, with the same crispy and crunchy texture. With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can make delicious homemade fries in no time.

Potato preparation: Wash, peel (optional), and cut potatoes into 1/4-inch slices

Potato Preparation

Wash your potatoes. You can peel them if you prefer, but this is optional. The skin helps them crisp up nicely as they cook and adds texture, flavour, fibre, and nutrients.

Cut the potatoes into 1/4-inch slices. Try to keep the slices uniform so they cook at the same rate. If you want to get really precise, you can use a mandoline to cut the potatoes.

Once you've cut your potatoes, you have the option to soak them in cool water for at least an hour, or for as long as overnight. This helps to remove excess starch and will make the fries crisp up more in the air fryer. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this step.

After soaking, pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel.

Soak potatoes: Submerge in cool water for 1 hour to remove excess starch

Soaking potatoes in cool water for an hour is an important step in making homemade fries in an air fryer. This process helps to remove excess starch from the potatoes, which will allow them to become crispier when cooked. It is recommended to completely submerge the cut potatoes in water and let them sit for about an hour. This step will ensure that your fries have the perfect texture.

After soaking, it is crucial to thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with paper towels or a clean dish towel. This step ensures that there is no residual moisture left on the potatoes, as wet fries will not crisp up properly.

Once the potatoes are dry, you can proceed with the next steps in the frying process, such as seasoning and cooking them in the air fryer. By following these steps, you will be able to achieve crispy and delicious homemade fries with your air fryer.

Seasoning: Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, and other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder

When making homemade fries in an air fryer, it is important to season them well. After cutting the potatoes into fries, you should rinse them in cold water and pat them dry. Then, it's time for seasoning!

Toss the fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder to give them an extra kick. Make sure to toss the fries well so that the seasonings are evenly distributed.

You can also get creative with your seasonings. Try a blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano for a taco-inspired fry. Or, add some Italian seasoning to give your fries a delicious herbal flavour. The possibilities are endless!

Once you have seasoned your fries, spread them out in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap. This will ensure that they cook evenly and get nice and crispy. Cook at 375-400°F for 8 to 16 minutes, tossing them halfway through.

When they're done, remove the fries from the air fryer and transfer them to a bowl. Sprinkle with a little more salt and toss to coat. Serve your crispy, golden fries with your favourite dipping sauce and enjoy!

Air frying: Cook in the air fryer at 375-400°F for 10-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through

Air frying is one of the final steps in making homemade fries in an air fryer. It is important to note that the exact temperature and time will vary depending on the type of air fryer and the thickness of the fries. For example, thinner fries will require a shorter cooking time.

To air fry homemade fries, first preheat the air fryer to between 375 and 400°F. Then, add the seasoned and/or oiled fries to the air fryer basket, ensuring they are all on the same level and not stacked on top of each other. Cook for 10 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are crispy and golden brown.

It is important to not overcrowd the air fryer basket and to shake the basket periodically to ensure even heat distribution and browning. Depending on the size of the air fryer, the fries may need to be cooked in batches.

Serving: Enjoy with your favourite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, ranch, or fry sauce

There are so many ways to enjoy your homemade fries, and they all start with the perfect dipping sauce. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Classic Dips

A good old-fashioned dunk in ketchup or ranch is always a winner. But if you're feeling adventurous, why not try making your own fry sauce? It's a simple blend of ingredients like ketchup, mayonnaise, and a variety of spices that you can adjust to your taste.

Creative Combinations

If you're feeling extra creative, step outside the box with some unique dip choices. Try a spicy kick with chipotle sauce, a tangy twist with chimichurri, or even a cheesy delight with vegan cheese. The possibilities are endless!

Dips with a Kick

For those who crave a little extra spice, add some zest to your fries with onion ring dipping sauce, or a spicy whipped feta dip. These bold flavours will take your homemade fries to the next level.

Healthy Options

If you're looking for a healthier option, try pairing your fries with a delicious yogurt-based dip. Skinny Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip is a tasty and nutritious option that will satisfy your cravings without the guilt.

Family Favourites

Every family has their own favourite dips, and yours might be Buttermilk Ranch or Fry Sauce. These familiar flavours are always a hit and will bring smiles to the table.

Custom Creations

Don't be afraid to experiment and create your own unique dipping sauce. Try adding fresh herbs, spices, or even a blend of your favourite seasonings to a basic mayonnaise or ketchup base. The options are endless, so have fun and get creative!

So, there you have it! Whether you're a traditionalist or an adventurous foodie, there's a perfect dipping sauce out there for your homemade air fryer fries. Enjoy experimenting, and don't be afraid to get a little messy with those fries!

Frequently asked questions