Steaming Red Potatoes In An Air Fryer: A Quick Guide

Air fryers are a convenient way to cook potatoes, yielding crispy results with a tender inside. They are also healthier than deep-fried potatoes, as they require less oil. Red potatoes are a great option for air frying, as they are low in starch and high in moisture, resulting in a great texture. They also have thin skin, so there is no need to peel them. To cook steamed red potatoes in an air fryer, simply cut the potatoes into large chops or wedges, toss them with olive oil and your desired spices, and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 18-22 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.

How to prepare the potatoes for air frying

Preparing potatoes for air frying is simple and requires only a few steps. Here is a detailed guide to help you achieve the best results:

Firstly, select the right type of potatoes. Red potatoes, Yukon Gold, or yellow potatoes are ideal for air frying due to their low starch and high moisture content, which results in a great texture. You can also use baby potatoes or new potatoes, which have thinner skins that crisp up nicely.

Before cutting the potatoes, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. Wash them well, removing any dirt or residue. You can also peel them if desired, but leaving the skin on provides extra crispness and is recommended by some sources.

After cleaning, cut the potatoes into uniform, bite-sized pieces. For baby or new potatoes, this may involve halving or quartering them. For larger potatoes, cut them into eighths or smaller pieces, aiming for a size of about 1 inch wide.

Once cut, you have the option to soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to overnight. This step is not necessary but can enhance crispness by removing starch from the surfaces. Be sure to pat the potatoes completely dry before proceeding, as moisture can impact the final result.

Next, prepare your chosen seasonings and toss the potatoes with oil and spices. Common seasoning choices include salt, pepper, garlic (powder or fresh), Italian seasoning, paprika, rosemary, and thyme. You can also experiment with other herbs and spices, such as Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, cumin, chili powder, onion powder, or Greek or Mexican-inspired blends. Don't be afraid to get creative and adjust to your preferences!

After seasoning, it's time to arrange the potatoes in the air fryer. Ensure they are in a single layer, not piled on top of each other, to allow for even cooking and maximum crispness. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F if necessary, and then place the potatoes inside.

Now, you're ready to start cooking! Air fry the potatoes for 10 minutes, then remove the basket and give it a good shake or stir to ensure even cooking. Return the potatoes to the air fryer and continue cooking for another 8 to 12 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of crispness and tenderness.

Finally, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and serve them hot. You can garnish with additional fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or chives for extra flavour and presentation. Enjoy your delicious, crispy air-fried potatoes!

What temperature and how long to cook them for

To cook steamed red potatoes in an air fryer, you should first cut the potatoes into pieces about 1 inch wide. For baby red potatoes, this may just involve halving or quartering, but for larger red potatoes, you may need to cut them into eighths.

Next, add the chopped potatoes to a large bowl along with olive oil and your desired spices. Toss to combine, then transfer to an air fryer. It is recommended to use a little bit of oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper to season red potatoes. However, you can also use Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or Cajun seasoning.

Ensure that the potatoes are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer and not piled on top of each other. This will help them get nice and crispy as they roast.

Now, you can roast the red potatoes at 400°F for 18-22 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through air frying or switch the positioning of the racks in an oven model so the potatoes cook evenly.

Once fork-tender in the middle with crispy, golden brown edges, remove from the air fryer and garnish with additional fresh herbs such as rosemary, parsley, or chives. Serve warm.

The cooking time for red potatoes in an air fryer is usually about 25-30 minutes. You can test if they are done by piercing them with a fork. It should be able to easily slide in and out.

What to serve air fryer potatoes with

Air fryer potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be served with a variety of meals. Here are some ideas for what to serve with air fryer potatoes:

Breakfast

Air fryer potatoes can be served as a breakfast side dish, pairing well with chicken apple sausage and cheesy scrambled eggs. They are a quick and easy option for a filling morning meal.

Lunch and Dinner

The beauty of air fryer potatoes is that they go with almost anything. They are a great side dish for a juicy steak dinner, or they can be served with burgers, pork chops, or prime rib. For a vegetarian option, air fryer potatoes can be served with a salad or roasted vegetables. If you're looking for something more substantial, air fryer potatoes can be turned into a main dish by topping them with chilli, cheese, and sour cream.

Appetizers and Snacks

Air fryer potatoes also make a great snack or appetizer. They can be served as-is or topped with bacon, cheese, or your favourite dip.

Special Occasions

Air fryer potatoes are a great option for feeding a crowd. Set up a baked potato bar with various toppings, such as butter, salt, pepper, sour cream, chives, and different types of cheese. This interactive and customizable option is perfect for game day, parties, or family gatherings.

Other Meal Ideas

• Salmon
• Swedish meatballs
• Chicken and potatoes with Dijon cream sauce
• Baked garlic parmesan potato wedges
• Meatloaf muffins
• Chicken thighs
• Hawaiian meatballs
• Hamburger steak with mushrooms and onions
• Buffalo chicken
• Grilled lemon chicken
• Chimichangas
• Greek salad

With their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, air fryer potatoes are a delicious and convenient addition to any meal.

Tips for making the potatoes extra crispy

Wash and Dry the Potatoes

Before cutting the potatoes, scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Dry them with a paper towel and let them sit for at least 15 minutes to ensure the skin is completely dry. This step is important because any residual moisture will affect how crispy the potatoes become.

Cut the Potatoes into Uniform Pieces

Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces. This will ensure that they cook evenly and achieve the same level of crispiness.

Soak the Potatoes in Cold Water (Optional)

Although not necessary, soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to overnight can help remove excess starch, resulting in crispier potatoes. Be sure to pat them dry completely before cooking.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Allow your air fryer to preheat to the desired temperature, usually around 400°F. This will help the potatoes achieve maximum crispiness.

Don't Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket

When placing the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensure they are in a single layer with space between each potato. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and crisp up the potatoes. If you have a large batch, cook the potatoes in multiple batches.

Flip the Potatoes During Cooking

After the initial cooking time of around 10 minutes, use a spatula or spoon to gently turn the potatoes. Shaking the basket can cause them to break apart. Return the potatoes to the air fryer for another 8-10 minutes or until they reach the desired level of crispiness.

Use Oil and Seasonings

Coat the potatoes with a small amount of olive oil to help them crisp up and enhance the flavour. You can also experiment with various seasonings like Italian seasoning, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, or a simple combination of salt and pepper.

Avoid Cooking Spray

Avoid using aerosol cooking sprays in your air fryer as they can damage the coating of the basket. Instead, toss the potatoes in olive oil to prevent sticking.

Know Your Air Fryer

Different air fryer models may vary in terms of cooking times and temperatures. Be sure to read the manual for your specific air fryer to understand its unique settings and requirements.

How to store leftover potatoes

Air fryer red potatoes are a delicious, healthier alternative to deep-fried french fries. They are soft and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. While air fryer cooking times can vary, these potatoes will cook in less than 15 minutes.

Leftover cooked potatoes should be stored in the fridge and eaten within three to four days. Here are some detailed methods for storing leftover potatoes:

• Airtight Containers: Allow the potatoes to cool, then store them in an airtight container such as a plastic container with a lock lid or a plastic storage bag. This will help keep your food dry and fresh in the refrigerator for three to five days.
• Plastic Wrap: If you want to store your potatoes for longer than a couple of days, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. Cut a piece of plastic wrap that fits your potatoes, then wrap it around them, ensuring no air bubbles are left inside. You can add an extra layer of protection by wrapping them again.
• Airtight Plastic Bags: Insert a straw into an airtight plastic bag, leaving the tip of the straw outside. Close the bag, leaving a small space for the straw. Put your mouth around the straw and take in air as you pull the straw out, then seal the bag quickly.
• Freeze: If you know you want to repurpose your baked potatoes, it's best to freeze them first. Place the potatoes in the freezer with enough space between them so they aren't touching. Once frozen, place them in an airtight plastic bag. For the best results, freeze plain potatoes without dairy products or seasoning, and slightly undercook them.

Frequently asked questions