Air Fryer Alexia Fries: Perfectly Crispy Results

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to make delicious fries, an air fryer is the perfect solution. With an air fryer, you can enjoy perfectly crispy Alexia fries without the need for deep-frying. Whether you're a fan of classic French fries or prefer sweet potato fries, the air fryer ensures a consistent result every time. The key to success is understanding the right temperature and cooking time for your chosen variety of Alexia fries. For example, the recommended cooking time for Alexia House Cut Fries is 7-8 minutes at 400°F, while the Sweet Potato Fries cook at the same temperature for around 16 minutes. So, if you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, an air fryer is an excellent option for creating delicious and crispy Alexia fries.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It ensures your food cooks evenly and efficiently. To preheat your air fryer to 400°F, follow these steps:

• Ensure your air fryer is switched on and plugged into a power outlet.
• Set the temperature to 400°F. Most air fryers have a temperature dial or a digital panel where you can input the desired temperature.
• Allow the air fryer to heat up. This usually takes around 3 minutes, but the time may vary depending on the model. Refer to your air fryer's user manual for specific instructions.
• Once the air fryer has reached 400°F, you can add your frozen Alexia fries.

It's important to note that different models of air fryers may have slightly different preheating processes, so always refer to your air fryer's instructions for the most accurate information. Additionally, when cooking frozen foods like Alexia fries, it's generally recommended to preheat the air fryer for the best results.

Add a single layer of frozen fries

When making Alexia fries in an air fryer, it is important to add a single layer of frozen fries to the appliance. This ensures even cooking and promotes a crisp exterior while retaining the natural texture of the fries, whether they are regular or sweet potato fries.

To do this, start by placing the frozen fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket and do not add any additional oil or seasonings at this stage. Preheat the air fryer to 360°F to 400°F, depending on the type of Alexia fries you are cooking.

For regular Alexia House Cut Fries with Sea Salt, preheat the air fryer to 400°F. For a less crispy texture, cook the fries for 7 minutes at this temperature. If you prefer your fries crispier, increase the cooking time to 8 minutes. It is important to monitor the fries during cooking, as they can go from undercooked to overcooked very quickly.

For Alexia Waffle Cut Fries, preheat the air fryer to 360°F. Cook a full bag of frozen fries for 12-13 minutes, or a half bag for 10-12 minutes. Slide out the basket and shake it halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.

For Alexia Sweet Potato Fries, preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Cook the fries for 8 minutes, shake the basket halfway through, and then cook for another 8 minutes. Alternatively, you can cook them for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket about halfway through. The longer cooking time will result in softer centres and crispier edges.

Cook for 7-8 minutes

When cooking Alexia fries in an air fryer, the cooking time will depend on the type of fries and your desired level of crispiness. For example, for crispy rosemary fries, you should cook them for eight minutes at 400°F (360°F according to another source). For waffle-cut sweet potato fries, cook for eight minutes at 400°F. For crispy truffle fries, cook for seven minutes at 400°F and an additional two minutes at the same temperature for extra crispiness.

For house-cut fries with sea salt, it is recommended to cook them for seven minutes at 400°F for a less crispy texture, and eight minutes for a crispier, more well-done finish. It is important to note that these skinny fries can go from undercooked to overcooked very quickly, so it is suggested to test the fries at six, seven, and eight minutes to determine your preferred level of doneness.

For organic Yukon select fries, preheat the air fryer and cook for eight minutes at 400°F. Similarly, for sweet potato fries, cook at 400°F for eight minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. For crinkle-cut sweet potato fries, cook at 400°F for eight minutes, shaking halfway through for a crispy exterior.

When cooking a full bag of waffle-cut seasoned fries, it is recommended to cook them for 12-13 minutes at 360°F, shaking the basket halfway through. For a half bag, cook for 13-15 minutes.

Shake the basket halfway through

Shaking the basket halfway through cooking is an important step in ensuring your Alexia fries cook evenly. This is because, as the fries cook, they may start to stick together or clump up in certain areas of the basket, preventing hot air from reaching some fries as effectively as others. Shaking the basket helps to separate the fries, giving them all equal exposure to the hot air and promoting even browning.

When shaking the basket, it is a good idea to use oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands from the hot air and the basket. Carefully slide out the basket and give it a good shake to mix up the fries. If you notice that the fries are sticking to the basket, you can use a heat-resistant spatula or spoon to gently separate them.

For best results, return the basket to the air fryer in a different position than it was in before. This will ensure that different areas of the fries are now closest to the heating element, further promoting even cooking.

Finally, remember that air fryer models vary, so the frequency with which you need to shake your basket may differ from others'. Some recipes recommend shaking the basket 2-3 times throughout the cooking process, while others suggest just once. You may need to experiment a little to find the optimal number of shakes for your particular air fryer model and the type of fries you are cooking.

Season with salt and pepper

Seasoning is an important step in making delicious Alexia fries in an air fryer. While some people prefer to season the fries before cooking, others opt for seasoning after. Here is a detailed guide on seasoning with salt and pepper:

When it comes to seasoning with salt, it's essential to use a high-quality variety. Sea salt is an excellent option, as it enhances the natural flavours of the potatoes. If you're using Alexia's House Cut Fries or Waffle Cut Fries, which already include sea salt, you may want to adjust the amount of added salt to your taste preferences. A generous sprinkle of salt can make a significant difference in bringing out the flavours of the fries.

As for pepper, freshly ground black pepper adds a bold kick to the fries. You can use a pepper grinder or a mortar and pestle to ensure the pepper is freshly ground, releasing its aromatic oils and providing a more robust flavour. The amount of pepper you add depends on your preference for spice. A light dusting of pepper can provide a subtle kick, while a more generous amount will give a spicier punch.

The combination of salt and pepper is a classic for a reason. It provides a savoury, palate-pleasing experience that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes. When seasoning, it's best to start with a light hand and gradually add more to suit your taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but it's challenging to remove it if you've added too much.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of salt and pepper to find your preferred blend. For example, you could try using smoked sea salt or a specialty pepper variety like Tellicherry peppercorns, which offer a more complex flavour profile.

Finally, don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. While salt and pepper are classic choices, you can also try other spices and herbs to elevate your Alexia fries. Some options include smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or even cinnamon for a unique twist on your air-fried treat.

Frequently asked questions