Air Fryer Wedges: Perfect Timing For Crunchy Treats

Air fryer potato wedges are a quick and easy snack, appetiser, or side dish. They are healthier than deep-fried wedges as they use less oil, and can be made in around 30 minutes. The cooking time will depend on how crispy you like your wedges, and the size of your air fryer.

How to cut potatoes into wedges

Step 1: Wash and Prep the Potatoes

Start by rinsing the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt and debris. You can use a potato brush or kitchen sponge to scrub them thoroughly. Then, rinse them again with warm water to ensure they are completely clean. If there are any bruised areas or dark spots, remove them with a paring knife. Finally, pat the potatoes dry using paper towels or a kitchen towel.

Step 2: Cut the Potatoes in Half

Place the potatoes on a cutting board and use a sharp chef's knife to cut them in half lengthwise. It is important to use a sharp knife and a cutting board to ensure a clean cut. You can also cut the potatoes into equal halves for more even wedges.

Step 3: Cut the Potatoes into Quarters

Place the cut side of each potato half face down on the cutting board. Cut each half lengthwise again to create quarters. Make sure your cuts are straight and even for the most consistent wedges.

Step 4: Cut the Potatoes into Wedges

With the cut side of each quarter facing up, slice down the middle of the potato to create wedges. Depending on the size of the potato, you can adjust the thickness of your wedges. For larger potatoes, you may want to cut each quarter into thirds, creating 12 wedges per potato. For smaller potatoes, cutting each quarter in half may be sufficient.

Tips:

• For the best results, use starchy potatoes such as Russet potatoes or Yukon Golds.
• If you want to peel your potatoes, use a vegetable peeler before cutting them.
• Soaking the potatoes in hot water for about 10 minutes before cooking can help release starch and result in crispier wedges.
• For even cooking, cut the potatoes into wedges of similar sizes.

How long to cook wedges for

The cooking time for potato wedges in an air fryer varies depending on the crispiness you desire and the size of your wedges. However, on average, it takes around 15-20 minutes to cook potato wedges in an air fryer.

For example, one recipe suggests cooking the wedges for 10 minutes, flipping them, and then cooking for an additional 5 minutes. This can be repeated until the desired crispiness is achieved.

Another recipe recommends cooking the wedges for a total of 30 minutes, but this is on the longer side and will result in very crispy wedges.

It is important to note that the cooking time may also depend on the type of potato used. Russet potatoes, King Edward, Maris Piper, and Yukon Golds are all recommended for making potato wedges.

Additionally, it is suggested that rinsing and soaking the potatoes before cooking can help improve crispiness. This process can take up to 45 minutes, but it is not mandatory.

Finally, when cooking, it is important to ensure that all wedges are in a single layer with space around each one to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.

Best potatoes to use

When making potato wedges in an air fryer, it's best to use starchy potatoes such as Russet potatoes or Yukon Golds. These types of potatoes have a higher starch content, which makes for fluffy interiors, and they crisp up beautifully. On the other hand, it's best to avoid waxy potatoes like fingerlings, as they won't hold up as well during cooking.

For the best results, it's also recommended to use potatoes that are 5 inches or less in length. Longer potato wedges tend to break apart when tossed in the air fryer.

If you're looking for a specific variety, Maris Piper potatoes are also mentioned as a good option for making wedges in the air fryer.

Should you soak potatoes before air frying?

Soaking potatoes before air frying is a common practice that can help improve the crispiness of the final product. However, it is not mandatory, and you can still achieve crispy results without soaking. Here is a detailed guide on the benefits of soaking, the steps involved in the process, and some alternative methods to ensure crispy air-fried potatoes.

Benefits of Soaking Potatoes

Soaking potato wedges in cold water helps remove excess starch, which is the key to achieving maximum crispiness. By removing the starch, you prevent the potatoes from sticking together during the air frying process. Soaking also softens the potatoes, allowing them to cook more evenly and reducing the chances of them breaking apart during cooking.

Steps for Soaking Potatoes

If you decide to soak your potatoes, follow these steps:

• Rinse the potato wedges and place them in a bowl of cold water. Swish them around and then drain the water. Repeat this process once or twice more until the water runs clear.
• After rinsing, cover the potatoes with very hot water and let them soak for about 10 to 30 minutes.
• Once the soaking is complete, pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Make sure they are thoroughly dried before proceeding to the next step.

Alternative Methods for Crispy Potatoes

If you don't want to soak your potatoes, there are alternative methods to ensure crispiness:

• Use the right type of potatoes: Opt for starchy potato varieties such as russet potatoes or Yukon Golds. Avoid waxy potatoes like fingerlings, as they don't hold up as well during cooking.
• Cut potatoes into uniform shapes and sizes: This ensures even cooking and prevents undercooked or burnt fries.
• Cook at high temperatures: Air fry at temperatures between 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Higher temperatures help achieve a crispier exterior.
• Flip and check the potatoes regularly: Shake or flip the potatoes halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking on all sides. Towards the end of the cooking time, check on them frequently to prevent overcooking.
• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Allow enough space for hot air to circulate evenly around the potatoes. This helps achieve that desired crispiness.
• Toss the potatoes with oil: Before air frying, toss the potato wedges with a small amount of oil (about 1-2 tablespoons). This will enhance crispiness without adding excessive fat.

Soaking potatoes before air frying is not mandatory but can improve the crispiness of your wedges. If you decide to soak, follow the steps outlined above. Alternatively, you can use a combination of the methods mentioned to ensure crispy and delicious air-fried potato wedges.

How to store leftover wedges

Leftover potato wedges can be stored in an airtight container or zip-top bag lined with paper towels in the refrigerator for up to four days. To ensure maximum crispiness when reheating, it is best to let the wedges cool before storing them.

If you want to enjoy your wedges for longer, you can freeze them! Place the cooled wedges in an airtight freezer bag, removing as much excess air as possible before sealing. Label the bag with the date, and freeze for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen wedges, there's no need to thaw them. Simply reheat them from frozen in the microwave, air fryer, or oven.

• If you're storing raw potato wedges, it's important to drain off any excess liquid before placing them in an airtight container or bag.
• To reheat your wedges, you can bake them in the oven at 200°C (390°F) for 15-25 minutes, or until they're crispy.
• You can also reheat wedges in the air fryer by placing them on a baking sheet and cooking for about 10 minutes. Coating them in oil or butter before reheating can enhance their taste and texture.
• For a quick option, you can microwave the wedges on low power for about two minutes or until they reach your desired temperature.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, you can deep fry the wedges in hot oil.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy your leftover wedges for several days or even months, making the most of this delicious side dish!

Frequently asked questions