Air Fryer Chips: No Oil, All Crisp!

Making chips in an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, as it requires less oil. To make chips in an air fryer with no oil, start by thinly slicing potatoes. Soak the slices in water for 15 to 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat them dry. You can then season the potatoes with salt and pepper, or other seasonings like garlic, paprika, or parmesan. Place the slices in the air fryer in a single layer, or no more than four layers, and cook at 170 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 to 25 minutes. Bump up the temperature to 400 degrees and cook for an additional 5 minutes to get the potatoes extra crispy.

Use a mandoline to thinly slice potatoes

Using a mandoline to thinly slice potatoes is a great way to ensure your chips are evenly cooked and super crispy. A mandoline is a type of kitchen slicer that allows you to cut super-thin slices with a uniform thickness. This is the best way to achieve the ideal thinness for your chips, which should be around 1/16 of an inch (or 2 mm).

If you don't have a mandoline, you can try using a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife, but it may be difficult to get the slices thin and even enough. A mandoline is a recommended tool for this task and will make the slicing process much easier.

When using a mandoline, it is important to use a cut-resistant glove to protect your fingers and prevent any accidents. This is especially important when slicing potatoes, as the starchy texture can make them a bit slippery.

Once you have thinly sliced your potatoes, you can move on to the next steps of soaking, drying, seasoning, and air frying to create delicious, crispy chips!

Soak potatoes in water to remove starch

Soaking potatoes in water is a great way to remove excess starch, which can help achieve a crispier texture when cooking or frying. The process is simple: cut the potatoes into your desired shape and size, and then place them in a bowl of cold water for a minimum of 15 minutes. If you have the time, you can soak them for a few hours to allow more starch to be removed, which will result in even crispier chips. However, it's important to note that soaking potatoes for too long, especially those cut into thinner shapes, can result in mushy fries as they may start to absorb water. Therefore, it is recommended to not exceed a soaking time of 24 hours for thicker-cut fries and 12 hours for thin shoestring fries.

If you are planning to soak your potatoes for an extended period, it is advisable to use the refrigerator to maintain a low temperature, as this will help keep the potato water cold, which is essential for effective starch removal. Additionally, if the potatoes are soaked for a few hours, you may want to change the water to ensure optimal starch extraction. Simply swirl the potatoes in the water to loosen any starchy coating, rinse them with fresh water, and pat them dry.

While some people prefer to use saltwater or brine for soaking, others find that a quick rinse or simply washing the potatoes is sufficient to address the starch. Ultimately, the decision to soak potatoes and the method chosen can be tailored to your preferences and the desired level of crispiness.

Dry potatoes with a towel

Drying the potatoes with a towel is an important step in making chips in an air fryer without oil. It is crucial to remove any excess moisture from the potatoes to achieve the desired crunchiness of the chips. After rinsing the potatoes, use clean tea towels or paper towels to pat them dry. Make sure the potatoes are completely dry before placing them in the air fryer. This step ensures that the chips will not turn out soggy and will have the desired crispy texture.

When drying the potatoes, it is recommended to use a towel that is highly absorbent. Tea towels made of cotton or linen are good options, as they are absorbent and quick-drying. If using paper towels, choose a brand that is strong and durable, as you will need to pat the potatoes firmly without the towel tearing.

To ensure even drying, spread the potatoes out on the towel in a single layer. If needed, use multiple towels to accommodate all the potatoes. Gently blot or pat the potatoes until they are completely dry. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing the potatoes, as this may cause them to break or become damaged.

Once the potatoes are dry, it is important to handle them carefully to prevent adding any moisture back to the potatoes. Use a dry bowl to toss the potatoes with any desired seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or dried herbs. Avoid using a wet spoon or adding any liquid ingredients at this stage, as it can undo the drying process.

By taking the time to properly dry the potatoes with a towel, you will be one step closer to achieving crispy, golden chips from your air fryer. This step may seem simple, but it is essential to the overall success of your no-oil air fryer chips.

Season with salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, etc

Seasoning is a key step in making delicious air fryer chips. While salt and pepper are standard, you can also experiment with garlic, paprika, and other spices to add a kick to your dish.

For a basic seasoning, toss the potato chips in a mixture of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also add paprika for a smokier flavour. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some cayenne pepper or chilli powder for a spicy kick. Just be careful not to overdo it, as these spices can be quite potent.

If you're looking for a more complex flavour profile, try adding some dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. You could also sprinkle on some grated parmesan cheese for a savoury touch. For a vegan option, use vegan parmesan instead. Play around with different combinations of spices and herbs to find your perfect blend.

When seasoning your chips, it's important to taste as you go and adjust the amounts of each spice to your preference. Remember, you can always add more, but it's harder to add less, so start with a light hand and build up from there.

For an extra crispy texture, you can also toss the chips in a light coating of cornflour before adding the oil and seasonings. This will give your chips a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the interior soft and fluffy.

So, whether you like your chips classic or with a bit of a twist, don't be afraid to experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavour combination.

Layer in the air fryer and fry at 170°F for 20-25 mins

Layering the potatoes in the air fryer is a crucial step in achieving the perfect crunch and avoiding uneven cooking. Here's a step-by-step guide to achieving the best results:

Layering and Frying:

• Layering Technique: When layering the potatoes in the air fryer, it's important not to overcrowd the basket. Place the potato slices in no more than 4 layers. This ensures that hot air circulates effectively around each slice, resulting in even cooking.
• Layering Order: Start by layering half of your seasoned potato slices in the air fryer. If you're using an air fryer with a paddle, tip the chips into the bottom of the fryer first, followed by the oil, and then toss to coat evenly.
• Fry Temperature and Time: Set the air fryer to 170°F (or 325°F for a crispier result) and fry the potatoes for 20-25 minutes. For the final touch, bump up the temperature to 400°F for an additional 5 minutes to give them that extra crunch.
• Stirring and Tossing: Throughout the frying process, it's important to stir and toss the basket every 5 minutes or so. This ensures that the potato slices cook evenly and don't stick to the air fryer surfaces.
• Checking for Doneness: How can you tell when your chips are done? Look for that beautiful golden-brown hue, and also test if they feel dry to the touch and are no longer flimsy.

Tips for Success:

• Mandoline Slicer: For the best results, it's highly recommended to use a mandoline slicer to achieve thin, even slices. This promotes even cooking and helps the chips crisp up perfectly.
• Soaking and Drying: While some recipes suggest rinsing and drying without soaking, others recommend soaking the potato slices in salted water for 15 to 30 minutes. This draws out the natural starch, preventing the potatoes from sticking together and promoting crunchiness. After soaking, be sure to pat the potatoes dry before tossing them with seasonings and placing them in the air fryer.
• Oil Usage: You can make these chips with or without oil. If you do use oil, just a small amount is needed to coat the potatoes and enhance crispiness.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings and flavors to find your favorite. Some popular options include garlic, parmesan, paprika, Cajun spice, dried herbs, curry powder, and chili flakes.

Frequently asked questions