Perfect Air-Fryer Fries: Soak Potatoes For Crispy Results

Soaking potatoes before frying is a common technique to remove excess starch and achieve the coveted French fry crispiness. While it is not necessary, especially when using an air fryer, it is recommended to soak the potatoes in cold water for at least an hour or up to 24 hours to improve the texture. After soaking, it is essential to thoroughly pat the potatoes dry before proceeding with the frying process.

Soaking time: 1 hour or up to 24 hours

Soaking your potatoes before air frying is a crucial step in achieving the perfect level of crispiness for your fries. While it is not mandatory, as some recipes suggest skipping this step, soaking your potatoes will help release excess starch and prevent your fries from sticking together.

The ideal soaking time for potatoes intended for air frying is at least one hour, but they can be soaked for up to 24 hours. This extended window offers flexibility in meal planning and preparation. During this time, the potatoes should be completely submerged in cold water. Changing the water after 20 to 30 minutes can also help enhance the starch removal process.

After soaking, it is essential to thoroughly pat the potatoes dry before proceeding to the next steps of preparation. This drying process ensures that the olive oil or vegetable oil used in the recipe can effectively coat the potatoes, contributing to the desired crispy texture.

While the soaking process is important, other factors also contribute to the success of your air-fried French fries. Selecting the right type of potatoes is key—russet potatoes are highly recommended for their ability to achieve the perfect balance of a fluffy interior and crispy exterior. Yukon Golds are another good option and offer a slightly buttery taste.

The cutting technique also matters. While the size and shape of the fries can vary according to personal preference, aiming for uniformity in the thickness of the fries will promote even cooking. A mandoline slicer can be a helpful tool to achieve consistent fry shapes.

In addition to the right tools, the right timing is crucial. Air frying your fries at 375°F to 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes should do the trick. Be sure to shake or flip the fries halfway through to ensure even cooking on all sides. Keep a close eye on your fries during the final minutes of cooking, as they can go from perfectly crispy to overcooked in a matter of moments.

Soaking temperature: Cold water

Soaking your potatoes in cold water before air frying is a crucial step in achieving the perfect level of crispiness for your fries. Here's a detailed guide on the soaking process, specifically focusing on the temperature of the water used:

Importance of Soaking:

• Soaking potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch, which is the key to achieving that coveted French fry crispiness. It also prevents the fries from sticking together during cooking.
• While it is possible to skip the soaking step when using an air fryer, doing so will result in fries that are less crispy and have a less rewarding texture.
• Always use cold water for soaking your potatoes. The cold temperature helps draw out the starch from the potatoes, which is essential for that crispy texture.
• Fill a bowl with cold water and completely submerge the potato slices in it.
• Let the potatoes soak for at least one hour. Changing the water after 20-30 minutes can be beneficial.
• Longer soaking times, such as up to 24 hours, are also possible without any negative effects on the potatoes.
• If you're soaking the potatoes for an extended period, consider placing the bowl in the fridge to keep the water cold and prevent any potential food safety issues.
• After soaking, thoroughly pat the potatoes dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispiness.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• While soaking, ensure that the potato slices are fully submerged in the cold water.
• If desired, you can add ice to the water to keep it extra cold, though this is not necessary if you're soaking for a shorter period.
• After soaking and drying, it is essential to properly preheat your air fryer. A preheated air fryer will help ensure even cooking and the best crispiness.
• When placing the potatoes in the air fryer, ensure they are in a single layer and not stacked on top of each other. This allows for even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the potatoes in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding.
• During cooking, remember to shake or flip the fries occasionally to ensure even cooking on all sides.
• For optimal crispiness, aim for a cooking temperature of around 375-400°F (190-200°C) in your air fryer.

Soaking purpose: Removes starch, achieves crispiness, prevents fries from sticking together

Soaking potatoes before air frying serves three main purposes: removing starch, achieving crispiness, and preventing fries from sticking together.

When you soak potatoes in cold water, it helps to remove some of their starch content. This removal of starch is crucial as it helps the centres of the fries become tender, while the outsides get deliciously crispy. The water bath also ensures that the fries don't stick together during the cooking process, resulting in evenly cooked potatoes.

The duration of the soak can vary, with some recipes recommending a quick 10-minute soak, while others suggest a longer soak of up to an hour or even 24 hours. It's important to note that the longer the soak, the crispier the fries are likely to be. However, even a short soak can make a significant difference in the texture of your air-fried potatoes.

After soaking, it's essential to thoroughly dry the potatoes before adding them to the air fryer. This step ensures that the oil can properly coat the potatoes, helping them crisp up without becoming soggy.

While soaking is not mandatory when using an air fryer, it is highly recommended to achieve that coveted French fry crispiness.

Soaking is not essential but improves crispiness

Soaking potatoes before air frying is not essential but improves crispiness.

Soaking potatoes in cold water for 10 minutes to 24 hours helps to remove excess starch and will make the fries crisp up more in the air fryer. The longer you soak the potatoes, the crispier they will become. However, if you don't have time to soak them, it's not a deal-breaker as the air fryer will still make them crispy.

After soaking, it is essential to pat the potatoes dry before adding oil and seasonings. This ensures that the oil can stick to the potatoes and helps to achieve a crispy texture.

When cooking the potatoes, it is best to arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer to ensure even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the potatoes in batches.

While soaking is not necessary, it is a useful step to improve the crispiness of your air-fried potatoes.

Dry fries thoroughly after soaking

Drying your fries after soaking is an essential step in the process of making air fryer French fries. This is because any residual moisture on the potatoes can lead to soggy fries. Therefore, it is important to pat them dry with paper towels or a clean dish towel to ensure there is no moisture left.

After soaking, the potatoes should be thoroughly dried, and then seasoned with oil, salt, and pepper. This is done to ensure that the seasonings stick to the potatoes and help to crisp them up. You can also add other seasonings of your choice, such as onion powder, garlic powder, or Cajun seasoning.

Once the potatoes are seasoned, they are ready to be placed in the air fryer. It is important to ensure that the fries are in a single layer and not stacked on top of each other. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and cook the fries evenly.

By following these steps and drying the fries thoroughly after soaking, you will achieve crispy and golden French fries that your whole family will crave!

Frequently asked questions