The Ultimate Air Fryer Hack: Layering Chips

Air fryers are a great way to make crispy, crunchy, and delicious homemade chips with very little oil. They are a healthier alternative to deep-fried chips and are much easier to clean up. While making chips in an air fryer, it is important to ensure that the chips are not overcrowded as this can make them soggy. It is also recommended to shake the air fryer basket occasionally to prevent the chips from burning.

Should you soak the potatoes?

Soaking potatoes before air frying them is a common practice, but is it really necessary? Well, there are valid arguments for both soaking and not soaking potatoes. Let's explore the pros and cons of each approach.

There are several reasons why some people choose to soak potatoes before air frying. Firstly, soaking potatoes can help to remove excess starch. This is important because too much starch can cause the potatoes to burn before they are fully cooked. By soaking the potatoes, you can reduce the chances of them turning out too brown or crispy on the outside while remaining uncooked on the inside. Additionally, soaking potatoes can help prevent them from sticking together during the air frying process, which is especially important if you are cooking a large batch.

However, there is also a strong case for not soaking the potatoes. Some people argue that soaking potatoes is an unnecessary step that adds time and effort to the cooking process without yielding significantly better results. They claim that it is possible to achieve crispy and fluffy air-fried potatoes without soaking, as long as you properly dry and season the potatoes before placing them in the air fryer. This method can save you time and effort without compromising the taste and texture of your final dish.

Ultimately, the decision to soak or not soak your potatoes depends on your personal preference and the specific recipe you are following. If you are short on time or simply want to streamline the cooking process, skipping the soaking step is a perfectly valid option. On the other hand, if you are looking for that extra level of crispiness and don't mind the extra effort, soaking the potatoes may be the way to go.

Tips for Soaking Potatoes:

If you do decide to soak your potatoes, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Cut the potatoes into your desired shape (thick chips, wedges, or thin slices) before soaking.
• Soak the potatoes in cold water for at least 10 minutes, or up to 24 hours if you plan ahead.
• Make sure to pat the potatoes completely dry with a clean towel before adding them to the air fryer.
• You can also rinse and drain the potatoes multiple times until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, instead of soaking for an extended period.

Tips for Not Soaking Potatoes:

If you choose not to soak your potatoes, here are a few tips to ensure the best results:

• Properly dry your potatoes after washing and before placing them in the air fryer. Excess moisture can impact the crispiness of your final dish.
• Season your potatoes well with oil, salt, and any desired spices to enhance flavour and texture.
• Toss or shake the potatoes periodically during the air frying process to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

How long should you cook them for?

The cooking time for your chips will depend on a few factors, including the type of chip you are using, the desired level of crispiness, and the air fryer model you are using.

For store-bought frozen chips, the cooking time will depend on the thickness of the chip. For example, thin frozen chips will need 10-15 minutes in the air fryer, while thick frozen chips will need 15-20 minutes. If you are cooking fresh potato chips, thin potato chips will need around 12-15 minutes, and thick potato chips will need 15-18 minutes.

If you are cooking frozen chips, it is important to note that they should not be thawed before cooking, as this can cause sogginess. Additionally, it is recommended to cook the chips in a single layer to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking.

When cooking fresh potato chips, the type of potato you use can also impact the cooking time. For example, Russet potatoes are commonly recommended for their high starch content, which helps achieve a crispy texture.

The desired level of crispiness will also determine the cooking time. For a softer texture, reduce the cooking time, and for a crispier texture, increase the cooking time.

It is also important to note that different air fryer models may require different cooking times, so it is recommended to keep an eye on the chips during the cooking process and adjust the time as needed.

Finally, remember to preheat your air fryer before adding the chips, as this can help achieve more consistent and even results.

What type of potatoes should you use?

When making chips in an air fryer, the type of potato you use is important. The best potatoes for air fryer chips are those with a high starch content, such as Idaho or Russet potatoes. These potatoes contain less moisture than other types of potatoes, and their starchy quality helps them to crisp up beautifully.

Other types of potatoes can be used, such as Yukon Gold potatoes, which are a good balance of starchy and waxy. Maris Piper or Rooster potatoes are also good options, as they will result in a fluffier chip interior and a crispier exterior.

If you're looking for a more rustic feel, you can leave the skin on your potatoes. However, if you prefer a neat and straight chip, it is recommended to peel the potatoes and trim away any rounded edges to create rectangular blocks before cutting them into chips.

What oil should you use?

You can use a variety of oils to make air fryer chips, including olive oil, sunflower oil, rapeseed oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil. Olive oil is a popular choice as it helps to maximise crispiness. If you want to keep the calories low, you can use an oil spray or mister to distribute a small amount of oil evenly.

You only need a small amount of oil when making air fryer chips—a tablespoon or two is usually enough to coat the chips lightly. This is far less than what you would use in traditional frying methods.

What temperature should the air fryer be?

The temperature for your air fryer will depend on the type of potatoes you are using, the thickness of your chips, and the level of crispiness you want to achieve.

For frozen French fries, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) and cook at 185°C (365°F) for 20-25 minutes. If you want crispier chips, you can cook them for an additional 3-5 minutes.

For homemade chips, the ideal temperature is 190°C/375°F for 20 minutes. If you are using an air fryer like the Tefal ActiFry, you can cook your chips at 200°C/400°F for 30 minutes. However, the timing may vary depending on the brand of your air fryer.

It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature can vary depending on the type of potatoes used and the thickness of the chips. For example, thinner French fries will take less time to cook than thicker-cut chips. It is recommended to check on the chips regularly and adjust the time and temperature accordingly to achieve the desired level of crispiness.

Frequently asked questions