Making Fried Potatoes In A Nuwave Air Fryer

Frying potatoes is a quick and easy process with a NuWave air fryer, which uses infrared technology to cook food with less fat than traditional frying methods. The air fryer is versatile and can cook a variety of foods, including chicken, fish, steak, and vegetables. It is also a healthier option, as it doesn't require added oil like deep frying or pan-frying. Here's a step-by-step guide to making delicious fried potatoes in a NuWave air fryer.

How to Make Fried Potatoes in a NuWave Air Fryer

Choosing the right type of potato

The type of potato you choose for your air fryer can make a big difference in the final result. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right type of potato for your fried potatoes in a NuWave air fryer:

Variety

Different varieties of potatoes will yield different results in the air fryer. Here are some common options:

• Russet potatoes: These are a good choice for air frying as they crisp up nicely with a pale golden colour. Their insides become soft and fluffy with a mild flavour.
• Yukon Golds or Yellow Potatoes: These potatoes are a favourite for air frying because they crisp up perfectly and turn a deeper golden colour due to their lower starch and higher sugar content. Their insides will be creamy and full of flavour.
• Reds: Red potatoes will turn an even darker golden brown because of their high sugar and low starch content. They will be crispy when they come out of the fryer but will soften quickly. Their insides will be creamy and soft.
• Baby potatoes or new potatoes: These are regular potatoes that have been harvested early and have a high sugar content. They roast perfectly in the air fryer and hold their shape well. However, they can be hard to find in grocery stores as they are somewhat seasonal.

Size and Uniformity

When choosing potatoes, look for those that are uniform in size and free from eyes and blemishes. This will help ensure even cooking and browning. Baby potatoes or new potatoes are smaller and cook more quickly, making them a good choice if you're short on time.

Starch Content

The starch content of potatoes can affect their texture and crispiness. Russet potatoes have a high starch content, which contributes to their fluffy texture when baked. Soaking potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to overnight can help remove starch from the cut sides, allowing them to crisp up even more in the air fryer.

Skin Thickness

Baby potatoes, or "new" potatoes, have thinner skin, which is ideal for achieving a crispy texture. Leaving the skin on is recommended for air frying as it adds flavour and crispiness to the final dish.

Preparing the potatoes

Step 1: Selecting the Right Potatoes

Start by choosing the right type of potatoes. For baked potatoes, Russet potatoes are an excellent choice due to their high starch content and dry, fluffy texture when cooked. Alternatively, for potato wedges, opt for starchy varieties like Russet potatoes or Yukon Golds. If you're making sweet potato fries, select medium-sized sweet potatoes.

Step 2: Washing and Drying

Thoroughly wash the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris. This step ensures your potatoes are clean and ready for the next steps. Once washed, use a clean towel to pat them dry. Removing excess moisture helps with the next steps and can impact the final texture.

Step 3: Pricking or Cutting

For baked potatoes, use a fork or a small knife to prick the potatoes all over. This step is important as it allows steam to escape during the baking process, preventing the potatoes from bursting. Make sure to pierce the skin deeply enough, but be careful not to puncture the flesh. If you're making potato wedges or fries, you'll need to cut the potatoes into the desired shape. For wedges, cut the potato in half lengthwise, then cut each half into quarters. Finally, cut each quarter in half lengthwise to create wedges. For fries, peel the potatoes and cut them into thin strips.

Step 4: Soaking (Optional)

If you have time, you can optionally soak your cut potato wedges or fries in cold water for about 30 minutes before seasoning and frying. Soaking can help remove excess starch, resulting in even crispier potatoes.

Step 5: Seasoning

Before placing the potatoes in the air fryer, it's time to add some flavour! Drizzle or toss your potatoes with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. You can also add various seasonings at this step, such as salt and pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, parsley, chili powder, or cayenne pepper. Experiment with different combinations to find your favourite flavours.

Your potatoes are now ready for the NuWave air fryer! Remember to preheat your air fryer, cook in batches if necessary, and follow the specific cooking instructions for your chosen potato dish. Enjoy your delicious, crispy fried potatoes!

Seasoning the potatoes

Before placing the potatoes in the air fryer, it is important to season them. This will enhance the flavour and crispiness of the final dish. Here is a step-by-step guide to seasoning potatoes for your NuWave air fryer:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can use any type of potato, but starchy varieties like russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for fluffy and crispy results. Leave the skin on for added texture and flavour. Pat the potatoes dry with a clean towel.

Step 2: Prick the Potatoes

Using a fork or a small knife, prick the potatoes all over. This step is crucial as it allows steam to escape during the cooking process, preventing the potatoes from bursting. Ensure you pierce the skin deeply enough, but be careful not to puncture the flesh.

Step 3: Oil and Season

Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the potatoes and rub it evenly across the surface. You can also use vegetable oil if preferred. The oil will help the potatoes achieve a crispy, golden texture.

Now, it's time to add your choice of seasonings. You can keep it classic with salt and pepper, or get creative with other options. Some popular choices include:

• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Cajun seasoning
• Parsley
• Chili powder
• Rosemary
• Cayenne pepper

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of spices to find your perfect flavour profile. You can also try adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to cut through the richness of the dish.

Step 4: Mix and Coat

Place the potatoes in a large bowl and mix them with the oil and seasonings. Ensure that each potato is evenly coated for consistent flavour and crispiness.

Once your potatoes are seasoned to perfection, they are ready to be placed in the air fryer. Follow the instructions provided with your NuWave air fryer for the best results, adjusting the temperature and timing as needed.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for fried potatoes in a NuWave air fryer can vary depending on the type of potatoes used and your desired level of crispiness. Here is a detailed guide:

For classic fried potatoes:

• Preheat your NuWave air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
• Cut your potatoes into the desired shape, such as wedges or slices.
• Season the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and any other desired seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning.
• Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.
• Cook the potatoes for about 10 minutes, then shake or stir them for even browning.
• Continue cooking for another 8-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.

For baked potatoes:

• Preheat your NuWave air fryer to 400°F (200°C) or 350°F (176.6°C).
• Wash and pierce the potatoes with a fork.
• Drizzle olive oil onto the potatoes and rub with seasonings.
• Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 40 minutes, or until fork-tender.
• If needed, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the potatoes.

For sweet potato fries:

• Preheat your NuWave air fryer to 370-390°F (187-198°C).
• Peel and cut sweet potatoes into thin strips or fries.
• Soak the sweet potato fries in water for 30 minutes (optional but recommended for crispiness).
• Pat the fries dry and toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
• Place the fries in the air fryer basket and cook for 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.

Serving suggestions

Fried potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your fried potatoes and make them the star of any meal:

As a Side Dish

Fried potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with a range of main courses. Serve them alongside a juicy steak or grilled chicken for a hearty and satisfying meal. They can also complement fish or other seafood dishes, adding a crispy and indulgent element to your plate.

Breakfast Companion

Why not start your day with some fried potatoes? They make a great addition to breakfast tacos or burritos, providing a hearty and crispy bite to kickstart your morning. You could also serve them with eggs, bacon, or sausage for a classic breakfast combination.

Appetizer or Snack

Turn your fried potatoes into a tasty appetizer or snack by serving them with a variety of dips. Ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing are all excellent choices for dipping. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon sugar, brown sugar, or Parmesan cheese on top for an extra burst of flavour.

Main Course

With the right toppings, fried potatoes can become a satisfying main course. Load them up with grilled vegetables, chilli, pulled pork, or your favourite protein. You can also experiment with different sauces and garnishes to create a well-rounded and flavourful dish.

Holiday or Special Occasion

When presenting fried potatoes for a special occasion or holiday gathering, consider adding a garnish for a touch of elegance. Chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary will not only enhance the flavour but also add a festive touch to your dish.

Leftovers and Storage

If you find yourself with leftover fried potatoes, you can easily store them in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in your air fryer until they're hot and crispy, just like fresh.

Frequently asked questions