Air Fryer Toaster Oven: Perfect French Fries

French fries are a beloved snack and side dish, but they can be time-consuming to make and messy to clean up. An air fryer toaster oven provides a faster, healthier, and less greasy alternative to deep-frying or oven-baking French fries. With just a few basic ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can enjoy crispy, crunchy, and addictive French fries in the comfort of your home.

Choosing the right potato

The type of potato you use is important when making French fries in an air fryer toaster oven. The best potatoes for French fries are starchy potatoes, such as russet potatoes (also known as Idaho potatoes). These potatoes have a high starch content, which helps them to become crispy and golden when cooked in the air fryer. Russet potatoes are widely available and make excellent French fries with a fluffy texture.

Alternatively, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, which are known for their creamy texture and thin skin. Yukon Gold potatoes will result in French fries with a creamier centre. They are a good option if you prefer your fries to have a softer, more buttery texture.

When selecting potatoes for your French fries, look for those that are firm and have smooth, undamaged skin. Avoid potatoes that are sprouting or have soft spots, as these may not cook evenly or produce the desired crispy texture.

The size of the potatoes is also a factor to consider. Choose potatoes that are similar in size, as this will help ensure even cooking. Larger potatoes can be cut into uniform pieces to match the size of smaller potatoes.

Once you've selected the right type of potato, it's time to prepare them for cooking. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and decide whether to keep the skin on or peel it off. Leaving the skin on can add flavour, texture, and nutrients to your French fries. However, if you prefer a more traditional French fry, you can peel the potatoes before cutting them into fries.

After preparing the potatoes, cut them into even pieces, typically about 1/4-inch thick. This size will allow the potatoes to cook evenly and achieve the desired crispy texture. Rinse the cut potatoes in cold water and pat them dry before proceeding to the next step of seasoning and cooking in your air fryer toaster oven.

By choosing the right type of potato and following these preparation tips, you'll be on your way to making delicious, crispy French fries in your air fryer toaster oven.

Preparing the potatoes

To make French fries in an air fryer toaster oven, you will need 1-2 pounds of russet potatoes (2 large or 3 medium potatoes). You can also use Yukon gold potatoes, which will give the fries a creamier centre.

Scrubbing and cutting the potatoes

First, scrub the potatoes and cut them into even 1/4-inch thick strips. You can peel the potatoes if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds more flavour, a great crispy texture, added fibre and nutrients, and saves time.

Rinsing and drying the potatoes

Once the potatoes are cut, rinse them under cold water and pat them dry with a towel or kitchen paper.

Seasoning the potatoes

Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl and drizzle them with olive oil (or vegetable or canola oil). Toss the potatoes to coat them evenly with the oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, or any other seasonings of your choice. Toss the potatoes again to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasonings.

Cooking the potatoes

Spread the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one. This allows the hot air to circulate and ensures even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the potatoes in batches.

Air fry the potatoes at 375-400°F for 10-15 minutes, tossing or flipping them halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so keep an eye on the potatoes to ensure they don't burn.

Once the potatoes are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately.

Seasoning

The seasoning of your French fries is a key component of the cooking process. It is recommended to season the fries just before air frying them, as adding salt too early will draw moisture out of the potatoes, resulting in less crispy fries.

The type of seasoning you use is entirely up to your preference. Here are some suggestions:

• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Chilli powder
• Chipotle powder
• Herbs (e.g. parsley, rosemary, thyme)
• Cajun seasoning
• Italian seasoning
• Curry powder
• Parmesan
• Truffle salt
• Dill

You can also try a blend of seasonings, such as:

• Ranch (onion powder and dried dill)
• Taco seasoning (chilli powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano)
• Cajun seasoning
• Italian seasoning

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for making French fries in an air fryer toaster oven can vary depending on the desired level of crispiness, the type of potatoes used, and personal preference. Here is a detailed guide:

Cooking Temperature:

It is recommended to preheat your air fryer toaster oven to a temperature between 375-400°F (190-200°C). The ideal temperature may depend on the model of your air fryer and the desired crispiness of your French fries. For example, one source suggests preheating to 380°F, while another recommends 400°F.

Cooking Time:

The cooking time can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on various factors. Here are some guidelines:

• Thinly sliced potatoes, around 1/4-inch thick, typically require a cooking time of 10-15 minutes in the air fryer.
• For crispier French fries, it is recommended to cook the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, which may require multiple batches. This method ensures proper air circulation and can take around 15 minutes.
• For a faster approach, you can cook the potatoes in two layers, reducing the number of batches. However, the fries may not be as crispy and can take around 12-15 minutes.
• If you opt for three layers or more, the cooking time may be similar to that of a single layer, but the fries will likely be less crispy.
• It is important to shake or flip the fries during the cooking process to ensure even cooking. Most recipes suggest doing this halfway through the cooking time.
• Depending on the model of your air fryer and the thickness of your fries, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, one source recommends cooking for 8 minutes in a Ninja air fryer, while another suggests 18 minutes for crispier fries.
• It is worth noting that the preheating time for an air fryer can vary, typically taking around 3-15 minutes to reach the desired temperature.

In summary, the cooking time and temperature for French fries in an air fryer toaster oven depend on various factors, including the desired crispiness, the type of potatoes, and the model of the air fryer. Experimenting with different temperatures and cooking times will help you find the perfect combination for your taste preferences.

Dipping sauces

While air fryer French fries are delicious on their own, they are even better when served with a side of dipping sauce. Here are some mouth-watering options to try:

Ketchup

A classic choice for French fries, ketchup adds a tangy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the salty, crispy fries. It's a favourite among both kids and adults!

Buttermilk Ranch

For a creamy and savoury option, buttermilk ranch is a great choice. It has a tangy flavour with a hint of herbs that complements the fries well. It's a popular option for those who want something a little more indulgent.

Fry Sauce

Also known as "yum yum sauce," fry sauce is a delicious combination of mayonnaise and ketchup, with added ingredients like apple cider vinegar, mustard, pickle relish, and hot sauce. It has a creamy texture and a slightly spicy kick that makes it irresistible.

Onion Ring Dipping Sauce

Onion ring dipping sauce is perfect for those who want something a little different. It often has a tangy, savoury flavour that goes well with the crispiness of the fries.

Chipotle Sauce

For those who like it spicy, chipotle sauce is an excellent option. It has a smoky flavour with a hint of sweetness that pairs well with the saltiness of the fries.

Chimichurri

Chimichurri is a vibrant, herb-based sauce that offers a fresh and flavourful twist to your French fries. It often includes ingredients like parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, creating a bright and tangy sauce.

Mayo, Mustard, or Aioli

For a simpler yet classic option, mayo, mustard, or aioli are always great choices. They add a creamy texture and a tangy flavour that enhances the taste of the fries.

BBQ Sauce

BBQ sauce is a sweet and smoky option that goes well with the savoury notes of French fries. It often has a thick, rich texture that makes it perfect for dipping.

Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing is a popular choice for those who want a creamy and savoury dip. It often includes herbs and a hint of spice, making it a tasty complement to the fries.

Cheese Sauce

Cheese sauce is an indulgent and creamy option that takes your French fries to the next level. It's perfect for those who want a rich and savoury dipping experience.

Spicy Whipped Feta

For something a little different, try spicy whipped feta dip. It has a creamy texture with a kick of spice, making it an addictive choice for French fries.

Homemade Blue Cheese Dip

Blue cheese dip offers a tangy and savoury experience with a creamy texture. It's an excellent choice for those who enjoy the unique flavour of blue cheese.

Zhoug (Skhug) Sauce

Zhoug, or Skhug, is a spicy and tangy sauce that originated in the Middle East. It often includes herbs, spices, and chilli peppers, creating a flavourful and addictive dipping experience.

No matter your preference, there is a dipping sauce to elevate your air fryer French fries and take them to the next level!

Frequently asked questions