Air Fryer Diced Potatoes: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryer diced potatoes are a quick, easy, and delicious side dish that can be served with almost anything. They are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep frying as it requires only a small amount of oil to achieve a perfect crisp. The cooking time is also much shorter than in an oven, with air-fried diced potatoes being ready in 20-25 minutes.

How to make diced potatoes in an air fryer

Ingredients

• Potatoes (russet, white, red, Yukon gold, sweet potatoes, etc.)
• Olive oil or avocado/vegetable oil
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried oregano
• Paprika
• Optional: Fresh parsley, thyme, lemon juice, parmesan cheese, cayenne pepper, chilli powder, feta cheese, cajun spice seasoning

Utensils

• Air fryer
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl
• Paper towels or tea towel

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F/200°C.
• Peel and dice the potatoes into cubes of roughly equal size.
• Soak the diced potatoes in a bowl of cold water for 10 minutes to an hour to remove excess starch.
• Rinse and pat the potatoes dry with paper towels or a clean tea towel.
• Add the potatoes to a mixing bowl and toss with olive oil.
• Once the potatoes are fully coated, add your chosen spices and lemon juice (if using).
• Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. You may need to cook in batches.
• Air fry for 15-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
• If using parmesan cheese, add it to the air fryer in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Garnish with fresh herbs (if using) and serve.

Tips

• For extra crispiness, preheat your air fryer before adding the potatoes and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• While the air fryer uses less oil than deep frying, using a small amount of oil is still important for achieving crispy results.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 400°F/200°C.

The best type of potatoes to use

When it comes to choosing the best potatoes for air frying, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to use potatoes that have a blend of waxy and floury characteristics. This will ensure that the outside of the potato becomes crunchy while the inside remains soft. Some recommended varieties include:

• King Edwards
• Maris Pipers
• Russet potatoes
• Yukon gold potatoes
• Red potatoes

However, it's important to note that you can use any type of potato you like and experiment with different varieties to find your preferred taste and texture. For example, sweet potatoes are a great option if you're looking for a healthier alternative as they are higher in vitamin A, calcium and fibre. White potatoes, on the other hand, are higher in potassium, vitamin C and lower in sugar.

Additionally, it is recommended to cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes to ensure even cooking. This will help you achieve the desired level of crispiness and avoid undercooked or overcooked potatoes. Aim for cubes that are around 1-2 cm in size.

Lastly, while not necessary, soaking the potatoes in cold water before cooking can help remove excess starch and improve crispiness. Simply soak the cubed potatoes for around 10 minutes, rinse, and pat them dry before seasoning and air frying.

How to achieve extra crispiness

To get the most out of your air fryer diced potatoes, there are a few steps you can take to ensure maximum crispiness. Firstly, cut your potatoes into evenly-sized cubes. This will ensure they cook at the same rate, so you don't end up with some burnt and some undercooked. It's best to opt for potatoes that have a blend of waxy and floury characteristics, such as King Edwards or Maris Pipers. This will ensure the outside of the potato gets crunchy while maintaining its shape.

Before cooking, it's a good idea to soak your diced potatoes in cold water for around 10 minutes, or even up to 30 minutes if you have the time. This will help to remove excess starch, which can make your potatoes cook unevenly and create a sticky texture that inhibits crispiness. After soaking, be sure to pat your potatoes dry with a clean tea towel or paper towel.

When it comes to cooking, preheat your air fryer to around 400°F. Add your potatoes in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding, as this will prevent proper air circulation. A light coating of olive oil or vegetable oil will help your potatoes crisp up, and it's important to shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning.

How to serve diced potatoes

Diced potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

As a Side Dish

Air fryer diced potatoes make an excellent side dish for various meals. They pair well with meats such as chicken, beef, or lamb. They can also be served alongside breakfast dishes like bacon, eggs, or added to burritos or kebab wraps. Their crispiness and flavour make them a perfect complement to any main course.

Customise with Seasonings

You can experiment with different seasonings to create unique flavour profiles. For example, adding lemon juice and oregano, then sprinkling feta cheese on top before serving, or including cajun spice seasoning for a spicier kick. You can also try mixed herbs, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese for a more savoury option.

As a Base for Toppings

Diced potatoes can be served as a base for various toppings. Try adding a sprinkle of flakey sea salt and a drizzle of white vinegar for 'salt and vinegar' potatoes, or top them with sour cream, Greek yogurt, or smooth cottage cheese. You can also dip them in a special sauce or sprinkle on some caramelised or crispy onions.

Accompanying a Main Course

Diced potatoes are a perfect companion to a main course. For instance, they can be served with smashed broccoli and chicken for dinner or with an omelette for breakfast. Their versatility allows them to complement a range of flavours and dishes.

On Their Own

Air fryer diced potatoes are so tasty that they can be enjoyed on their own as a snack. Sprinkle on some fresh parsley, or dip them in ketchup or mayonnaise for a flavour boost. They are a great option when you're looking for something savoury and satisfying.

How to store leftover diced potatoes

Diced potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 10 to 12 months. Here are some detailed steps to follow:

Storing in the Refrigerator:

• Allow the diced potatoes to cool down to room temperature.
• Wrap the potatoes in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container.
• Make sure there is no air getting inside if using plastic wrap.
• Store them in the refrigerator, where they will last for 3 to 5 days.

Storing in the Freezer:

• After cooking, allow the diced potatoes to cool down to room temperature.
• Place them in the freezer, ensuring they are not touching each other.
• Once frozen, transfer the potatoes to an airtight plastic bag or container.
• Label the container with the date, and store them in the freezer for up to 10 to 12 months.

Tips for Storing Diced Potatoes:

• It is best to store plain potatoes without any dairy products or seasonings. Add these ingredients when reheating.
• If storing in an airtight container, ensure the potatoes are dry to prevent sogginess.
• To maintain the freshness of diced potatoes, store them in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated area, such as a pantry or cellar.
• Keep potatoes away from ethylene-producing fruits and vegetables like onions, avocados, apples, and bananas, as they can cause the potatoes to rot.

Frequently asked questions