Air Fryer Hasselback Potatoes: The Perfect Timing

Air fryer Hasselback potatoes are a delicious, crispy, and tender side dish that can be made in under 30 minutes. They are easy to make, budget-friendly, and versatile. The dish is named after the Hasselbacken hotel in Stockholm, Sweden, where it was first created. The potatoes are cut thinly and fanned out, giving them a unique and elegant appearance. You can use any type of potato, but it is best to use potatoes that are uniform in size so they cook evenly. The key to achieving the perfect Hasselback cut is to use a sharp knife and cut them very finely, making sure not to cut all the way through the potato.

How to cut the potatoes

To make hasselback potatoes in an air fryer, you'll need to cut your potatoes into thin slices, without cutting all the way through the potato. This will give the potatoes their characteristic fan-like or accordion shape. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut the potatoes:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes and Cutting Tools

Before you start slicing, make sure your potatoes are clean and dry. You can use a variety of potatoes, such as Russet, Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or baby potatoes. For larger potatoes, it is recommended to use chopsticks, skewers, or the handles of wooden spoons to help guide your cutting and prevent you from slicing all the way through. Place the chopsticks or skewers on either side of the potato before cutting. For baby potatoes, you can place one potato at a time on a wooden spoon and cut across at intervals.

Step 2: Start Slicing

Using a sharp knife, begin slicing the potatoes into thin, even slices. For large potatoes, cut in thin intervals accordion-style, ensuring you don't cut all the way through to the bottom. Leave some space at the bottom of the potato so that the slices remain connected at the base. For baby potatoes, cut across at intervals while they are placed on the wooden spoon, ensuring you don't cut through.

Step 3: Slice Thickness and Spacing

The slices should be thin, about 1/4 inch or 2-5 mm thick. The thinner the slices, the crispier the edges of the potatoes will be. Try to get the slices as close together as possible, with a spacing of about 2-3 mm between them. However, keep in mind that the slices should not be too thin, as you still want the potato to hold together.

Step 4: Check Your Work

After slicing, take a moment to check that you've achieved the desired cut. The potatoes should be fanned out, with the slices still connected at the base. If you notice any slices that are too thick or uneven, you can carefully adjust them by slicing again, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Tips for Cutting Hasselback Potatoes:

• Use a sharp knife to ensure clean, precise cuts.
• For large potatoes, use chopsticks, skewers, or wooden spoon handles to guide your cutting and prevent slicing all the way through.
• For baby potatoes, a wooden spoon can help guide your cutting.
• Don't worry if your slices aren't perfect; the potatoes will still taste delicious even if they're not cut perfectly the first few times. Practice makes perfect!

How to season the potatoes

While hasselback potatoes are delicious on their own, seasoning them can take them to the next level. Here are some tips and tricks for seasoning your potatoes to perfection:

Choosing Your Seasonings

The great thing about hasselback potatoes is that they pair well with a variety of different seasonings. You can go with a classic combination of salt and pepper, or get creative with other herbs and spices. Some popular options include garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, parsley, and onion powder. You can also try Indian-inspired spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder, and garam masala. If you're feeling cheesy, sprinkle on some Parmesan, or try other cheeses like cheddar or smoked gouda.

Preparing the Potatoes

Before you add your seasonings, it's important to prepare your potatoes properly. First, slice your potatoes into thin, accordion-style slices, leaving the bottom intact. You can use chopsticks or the handles of wooden spoons as a guide to prevent cutting all the way through. Then, brush your potatoes with a fat like olive oil, melted butter, or a combination of both. This will ensure your potatoes get nice and crispy.

Adding the Seasonings

Now it's time for the fun part—adding your seasonings! Combine your melted butter or olive oil with your chosen seasonings in a small bowl. Then, brush this mixture over your potatoes, making sure to get it in between the slices. You can also sprinkle on seasonings like salt and pepper.

Baking the Potatoes

Once your potatoes are seasoned, it's time to bake them. For an air fryer, preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about 20 minutes. Then, brush your potatoes with more of the seasoning mixture and cook for an additional 20 minutes. If you're using an oven, bake your potatoes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes to an hour.

Final Touches

Once your potatoes are cooked, you can add some final touches. Try sprinkling on some Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also add some red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Serve your potatoes with a side of garlic butter for an extra indulgent treat.

So, there you have it! A few simple steps to take your hasselback potatoes from plain to mouth-wateringly delicious. Get creative, experiment with different combinations, and most importantly, enjoy!

How long to cook the potatoes for

The cooking time for hasselback potatoes in an air fryer depends on the size of the potatoes and the thickness of the slices. For large potatoes, it usually takes around 25 to 35 minutes to cook in an air fryer. For small or medium-sized potatoes, the cooking time is typically between 15 and 25 minutes. If you prefer thinner slices, they will take less time to cook, while thicker slices may require a little longer.

It is also important to note that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the brand of the air fryer. As a general rule, it is recommended to cook hasselback potatoes at a temperature between 350°F and 390°F.

When cooking hasselback potatoes in an air fryer, it is crucial to ensure that the potatoes are not overcrowded in the basket, as this can affect the cooking time and the crispiness of the potatoes. Additionally, brushing the potatoes with oil or butter before seasoning can help the seasoning adhere better and enhance the flavour.

For an extra crispy exterior, some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer before adding the potatoes. Others recommend cooking the potatoes in two stages, brushing the potatoes with the remaining oil and seasoning mixture halfway through the cooking process.

How to reheat leftover potatoes

Using an Air Fryer

Reheating potatoes in an air fryer is a quick and convenient method that delivers even heating and a crispy skin.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350–400°F (175–200°C).
• Remove any foil wrapping from the potatoes.
• For an extra crispy finish, spray the potatoes with cooking spray or brush with oil.
• Place the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them.
• Reheat for 4–15 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes.

Using an Oven

Reheating potatoes in an oven is a good way to retain their crispy skin.

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Cover the potatoes with parchment paper and then aluminum foil.
• Heat the potatoes for 8–10 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 4–10 minutes.

Using a Frying Pan

Reheating potatoes in a frying pan is a faster method, but it may alter the texture.

• Heat butter or olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the potatoes and stir to coat them with the fat.
• Cover the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes.
• Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for an additional 3 minutes to restore crispness.

What to serve with the potatoes

So, you're making hasselback potatoes in an air fryer? They're a great choice for a tasty, crispy side dish that's quick and easy to make. But what should you serve with them? Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delicious and well-rounded:

Main Courses

If you're looking for a hearty main course to serve with your hasselback potatoes, here are some options:

• Steak: A classic combination, the juicy steak and flavourful gravy pair perfectly with the tender slices of potato.
• Roast chicken: Another excellent choice, especially when served with a variety of roasted vegetables on the side.
• Pork chops with apple sauce: The savoury flavours of the potatoes balance the sweetness of the apple sauce and the juiciness of the pork chops.
• Baked salmon: A beautifully seasoned fillet offers a light and healthy contrast to the richness of the potatoes.
• Lamb chops: Seasoned with herbs and spices, these chops create an elegant pairing with the potatoes.
• Grilled portobello mushrooms: For a meat-free option, these mushrooms offer a juicy, earthy flavour that complements the crispiness of the potatoes.

Vegetarian Options

For vegetarian guests or those looking to add more plant-based options to their menu, consider these dishes:

• Vegetable stir-fry: Pack it with a variety of fresh veggies and your choice of seasoning.
• Stuffed bell peppers: Fill them with quinoa, rice, black beans, or your preferred combination of ingredients.
• Eggplant Parmesan: Layers of breaded and baked eggplant slices with tomato sauce and melted cheese make for a comforting and flavorful dish.
• Vegetable curry: A hearty curry with aromatic spices and coconut milk creates a flavorful contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Quinoa salad: A refreshing salad with chopped vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette adds a healthy and colourful element to the plate.

Toppings and Sides

To personalise your hasselback potatoes and make them even more delicious, consider adding some toppings or serving them with complementary sides:

• Crispy bacon and cheese: Because, well, bacon makes everything better!
• Sour cream and chives: A classic combination that adds a tangy twist.
• Sauteed spinach, mushrooms, and onions: For a healthy and tasty addition.
• Garlic herb butter: A rich, buttery sauce with a hint of garlic and herbs complements the crispy and tender texture of the potatoes.
• Spicy salsa: For a kick of heat and a burst of fresh flavours.
• Creamy cheese sauce: A rich and indulgent sauce that pairs perfectly with the crispy edges and soft insides of the potatoes.
• Greek yoghurt: A healthier alternative to sour cream, it adds a tangy twist.

Sauces and Dips

To take your hasselback potatoes to the next level, pair them with some delicious sauces or dips:

• Garlic aioli: A creamy, garlicky sauce that elevates the savoury profile of the potatoes.
• Pesto mayo: A vibrant, herbaceous dip that complements the texture and taste of the potatoes.
• Tzatziki: A refreshing Mediterranean-inspired pairing with its cool, tangy flavours.
• Spicy ketchup: For a familiar, zesty twist.
• Caramelised onion dip: Sweet and savoury, it balances the crispiness of the potatoes.
• Hummus: Whether classic or flavoured, hummus offers a protein-rich indulgence.

There you have it! With these ideas, you can create a delicious and well-rounded meal to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your culinary creations and the company of your loved ones!

Frequently asked questions