Air Fryer Veggie Crisps: Quick, Easy, And Healthy!

Air fryers are a great way to make healthier snacks, and vegetable crisps are a fantastic option. You can use a range of vegetables, including beetroot, sweet potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and zucchini. The preparation is simple: just slice the vegetables thinly, toss them in oil and seasoning, and place them in a single layer in the air fryer. The air fryer will do the rest! You can also make these crisps in the oven if you don't have an air fryer.

Choosing your vegetables

• Root vegetables are a great option for air fryer crisps. Sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, and potatoes are popular choices that can be found in many recipes.
• Feel free to get creative and experiment with other root vegetables like turnips, parsnips, or even purple potatoes for a fun pop of colour.
• If you're not a fan of root veggies, you can try slicing up some zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant. These vegetables may require slightly different cooking times and temperatures, so be sure to keep an eye on them while they're in the air fryer.
• When selecting your vegetables, look for ones that are firm and fresh. Avoid any that are wilted or have soft spots, as they may not crisp up as well in the air fryer.
• You'll want to slice your veggies thinly and uniformly. A mandolin slicer can be a great tool to help you achieve this, but a steady hand and a sharp knife will also do the trick. Aim for a thickness of around 1/16 to 1/4 of an inch.
• Before placing the veggies in the air fryer, be sure to pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help remove any excess moisture and ensure that your crisps turn out nice and crunchy.
• If you're using starchy vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes, you may want to soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes after slicing to remove some of the starch. This can help them crisp up better in the air fryer.
• Don't be afraid to mix and match your veggies! Creating a medley of different vegetables can make for a tasty and colourful snack.

Slicing your vegetables

For beetroot, it's recommended to slice the vegetable to a thickness of 1/16 of an inch. For sweet potatoes, you can go a bit thicker, up to 1/4 of an inch. If you're making a medley of different vegetables, try to cut them to roughly the same size so they cook evenly.

After slicing, it's a good idea to blot the vegetables with kitchen paper to absorb any extra moisture. This will help ensure your crisps are nice and dry.

If you're using root vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots, you may also want to rinse the slices in cold water to remove the starch, and then dry them thoroughly before cooking. This can help reduce the oil needed and improve crispness.

Seasoning your vegetables

• Salt and Pepper: The dynamic duo of salt and freshly ground black pepper on your vegetables before placing them in the air fryer. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavours of the vegetables without overwhelming them.
• Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs can add a boost of flavour to your crisps. Try using rosemary, thyme, oregano, or basil, either alone or in combination. For example, rosemary pairs well with root vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices to find your favourite combinations. Paprika, garlic powder, chilli powder, or Italian seasoning are all great options. For a spicy kick, increase the amount of chilli powder or add some cayenne pepper.
• Oil: A drizzle of oil helps the seasonings stick to the vegetables and promotes even cooking. Olive oil, avocado oil, or a simple oil spray can be used.
• Creative Combinations: Don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. Try a combination of garlic powder, rosemary, and cornmeal for a crunchy texture. You can also experiment with store-bought seasoning blends, such as Italian seasoning or Everything Bagel seasoning.
• Sweet and Spicy: For a unique flavour profile, combine sweet vegetables like sweet potatoes with spicy seasonings. A mix of brown sugar, chilli powder, cumin, and salt creates a delightful contrast between sweet and spicy.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best seasoning is the one that suits your taste buds. Feel free to adjust the amount of each seasoning or add your own twist to the recipes. You can also offer a variety of seasonings to your guests and let them customise their crisps.

Cooking your vegetable crisps

Now that you've selected your vegetables and prepared them for cooking, it's time to cook them in the air fryer. Here are some general guidelines and tips to ensure your vegetable crisps turn out perfectly:

• Set your air fryer to the correct temperature. Most recipes recommend a temperature between 320-356°F (160-180°C).
• Place the vegetable slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. It's okay if they overlap slightly, as they will shrink during cooking.
• Depending on the type of vegetable and the thickness of the slices, the cooking time will vary. For example, parsnips and beetroots may take 3-4 minutes, while sweet potatoes and carrots can take up to 15-20 minutes.
• It's important to keep an eye on your crisps and toss or shake them periodically to ensure even cooking. This will also prevent them from burning.
• Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the vegetables in batches.
• Once they are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack or a paper towel. This will help them crisp up even further.
• Season your crisps with salt, pepper, or any other desired seasonings while they are still hot so that the seasonings stick to the crisps.
• If you want to get creative, you can experiment with different seasonings and vegetable combinations to find your favorite flavor profiles.
• You can also try using a mandoline slicer to get uniform, thin slices for your crisps, but be careful when handling this tool.
• If you want to make a large batch, you can store your vegetable crisps in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days.

Storing your vegetable crisps

Cooling the Crisps:

First, allow your freshly cooked vegetable crisps to cool completely before storing them. Spread them out on a baking sheet or a wire rack to cool evenly. This step is crucial as storing warm crisps can lead to moisture buildup and sogginess.

Choosing the Right Container:

Always store your vegetable crisps in an airtight container. Glass jars or airtight plastic containers are excellent choices. Ensure the container is clean and dry before adding the crisps.

Adding Absorbent Material:

To maintain crispness, it's a good idea to include an absorbent material in your storage container. Place a small packet of silica gel or a few paper towels at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.

Storing Temperature and Location:

Store your vegetable crisps at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid placing them in areas with direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can affect their freshness and texture.

Shelf Life and Consumption:

Properly stored vegetable crisps can last for up to 2 days. For the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to consume them within this timeframe. If you notice any signs of spoilage, mold, or sogginess, discard the crisps immediately.

Remember, these storage instructions are designed to keep your air-fried vegetable crisps fresh and crispy. By following these steps, you can enjoy your delicious and healthy snack for a couple of days without worrying about sogginess or staleness.

Frequently asked questions