Air Fryer Curly Fries: Perfect Timing For Crispy Treats

Curly fries are a fun and delicious treat, but getting them just right can be a challenge. Too long in the fryer and they'll be charcoal-flavoured, too short and they'll be soggy. So, how long should you cook curly fries in an air fryer? Well, it depends on the type of air fryer you have, the brand of fries, and your personal preference. Generally, they take around 10 minutes in an air fryer at 400°F, but this can vary depending on the model of your air fryer and the desired crispiness. Some recipes suggest cooking curly fries at a lower temperature of 360°F for 6 minutes, with an extra minute or two at a higher temperature for added crisp. It's important to remember that air fryers require some experimentation to find the perfect settings for your favourite foods. So, don't be afraid to play around with different temperatures and cooking times to find the perfect curly fry!

Curly fries from frozen

Ingredients

• Frozen curly fries
• Olive oil (optional)
• Salt (optional)

Method

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Season your curly fries with olive oil and salt (if using). Mix well to coat evenly.
• Place the curly fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It's fine if they overlap a little, but don't fill the basket. Cook in batches if you need to.
• Air fry for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), shaking the basket halfway through.
• Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce.

Tips

• You don't need to defrost your curly fries before air frying.
• For the crispiest curly fries, cook in a single layer.
• You don't need to add oil to the air fryer basket. Curly fries already contain oil, which will keep them from sticking.
• If you want to add seasoning, do so immediately after cooking.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat by air frying for a few minutes at 350°F (180°C).

Curly fries from fresh

Ingredients

• 1 lb russet potato(s)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil
• Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley

Method

• Spiralize each potato. Use kitchen shears or scissors to cut the potato "noodles" into shorter pieces. This doesn't need to be precise, but it prevents you from having one incredibly long fry!
• Transfer the potato to a large bowl. Fill with cold water and let sit for 20 minutes to an hour. Do not skip this step.
• Drain the water and dry the potatoes on clean tea towels or paper towels. If you don't remove the excess moisture, they won't crisp up.
• Toss the now mostly dry potatoes with olive oil, salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried parsley.
• Preheat your air fryer to between 360-400°F.
• Place a handful of potatoes in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket. Fry at 360°F for 7 minutes. If you want more crispiness, you can turn up the heat to 380°F for 1-2 minutes at the end.
• Top with dried parsley before serving (optional).

Tips

• For ultimate crispiness, you want to make sure the air can circulate around the fries well. Depending on your air fryer capacity, you may need to do multiple batches.
• Use tongs to toss the fries a few times while they cook.
• If you like your curly fries extra crispy, you can spray them with a little cooking spray before air frying.
• If you want to reheat your curly fries, preheat your air fryer and add the fries to the basket. Cook at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until crispy and hot.

Best temperature for cooking

The best temperature for cooking frozen curly fries in an air fryer is 400°F/200°C.

To achieve the best results, preheat your air fryer before adding the fries. If your air fryer does not have a pre-heat function, set it to the desired temperature and let it run for 2 minutes.

Once preheated, add the frozen curly fries to the air fryer basket in a single layer, with only a little overlap. Avoid stacking the fries as this will result in a soft, soggy texture. The hot air needs to circulate around the fries to achieve the desired crispiness. You may need to cook the fries in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.

After adding the fries, return the basket to the air fryer and cook for 5 minutes. Then, remove the basket and give it a good shake to ensure even cooking. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes at the same temperature.

The total cooking time will be around 9-10 minutes for frozen curly fries. If you prefer a crispier texture, increase the cooking time to 10 minutes.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, so be sure to keep an eye on the fries to prevent overcooking or undercooking.

For reheating leftover curly fries, preheat your air fryer and cook the fries at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until crispy and hot.

Best air fryer to use

Cooking curly fries in an air fryer is a quick and easy process that delivers perfect, crispy results every time. But which air fryer is best for the job? Here's a guide to help you choose.

When selecting an air fryer for making curly fries, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want an air fryer with a decent capacity, especially if you plan on cooking for a family or a group of friends. Look for a model that has a basket or tray large enough to accommodate a decent amount of fries in a single layer, as overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and sogginess.

Secondly, consider the temperature range and cooking presets available. For curly fries, you'll typically be cooking at temperatures around 400°F (205°C), so ensure your air fryer can reach this temperature. Some air fryers also come with preset programs for different types of food, including frozen foods or fries, which can be convenient for hassle-free cooking.

Lastly, think about any additional features you may want. Some air fryers offer multiple cooking functions, such as grilling, baking, and dehydrating, giving you more versatility in the kitchen. Others may have adjustable racks or multiple cooking compartments, allowing you to cook different foods simultaneously.

• Ninja Foodi: This air fryer offers a range of functions beyond just air frying, including grilling, baking, and dehydrating. It's a bulky unit but provides excellent cooking performance.
• Ninja 4qt Air Fryer: If you're looking for something more compact and affordable, the Ninja 4qt Air Fryer is a great option. It's dedicated solely to air frying, so it's perfect if you don't need the extra features of the Ninja Foodi.
• Corosi Air Fryer: Another excellent choice for air frying, the Corosi Air Fryer is a good alternative to the Ninja 4qt Air Fryer, offering similar functionality at a competitive price point.

Tips for Cooking Curly Fries in an Air Fryer

Once you've selected your air fryer, here are some tips to ensure perfect curly fries every time:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C).
• Place the frozen curly fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
• Cook for 5 minutes, then shake or flip the fries and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness.
• If adding seasoning, do so immediately after cooking for best results.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, BBQ sauce, or spicy options like sriracha or honey mustard.

Dipping sauces

Curly fries are a delicious treat, and what makes them even better is the sauce! Here are some ideas for dipping sauces to accompany your air-fried curly fries:

Spicy BBQ Sauce

A classic choice for curly fries, BBQ sauce has a sweet and smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the crispiness of the fries.

Sriracha Ketchup

For those who like it hot, sriracha ketchup adds a spicy kick to your regular ketchup. It's a great way to elevate your dipping experience and add some extra heat to your meal.

Honey Sriracha Sauce

If you're looking for a sweet and spicy option, honey sriracha sauce is an excellent choice. The honey adds a touch of sweetness to balance out the spiciness of the sriracha.

Blue Cheese Dressing

Blue cheese dressing offers a creamy and tangy flavour that complements the fries. It's a unique option that adds a punch of flavour to your meal.

Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce is a tangy and spicy choice that will surely satisfy your taste buds. It has a bold flavour that pairs well with the crispiness of the curly fries.

French Fry Dipping Sauce

This sauce is a creamy and lightly spicy blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, mustard, hot sauce, and dill pickle relish. It's a perfect dip for curly fries and will elevate your snacking experience.

Utah's Famous Fry Sauce

This famous sauce is a combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. It's creamy, tangy, and full of flavour, making it the perfect dip for your crispy fries.

Other Options

Of course, you can also enjoy your curly fries with regular ketchup or any other sauce you prefer. Some people like to dip their fries in ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even chipotle mayonnaise. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your favourite combinations!

Frequently asked questions