Air Fryer Potato Wedges: Crispy, Golden Perfection

Air fryers are a great way to make crispy potato wedges with a soft centre, without the need for lots of oil or a long cooking time. The key to getting them crispy is to soak the potato wedges in cold water before cooking, to remove excess starch. You can also parboil the potatoes in hot water for 10 minutes to soften them, but this is not essential. When it comes to cooking, it's important not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, and to flip the wedges halfway through. You can also cook the wedges in batches if your air fryer is on the smaller side.

Soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to release excess starch and make them crispier

Soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes is a crucial step in achieving the perfect crispy texture for your air-fried potato wedges. Here's why this step is important and how to do it right:

First, let's understand the science behind it. Potatoes naturally contain starch, and while starch is great for thickening sauces or making potatoes fluffy, too much of it can lead to soggy wedges. By soaking the potatoes in cold water, you're helping to remove some of this excess starch. The cold water also helps to firm up the potatoes, which is key to achieving that satisfying crispiness.

Now, for the step-by-step process:

• Peel and cut your potatoes into wedges. The size of the wedges is up to you, but try to keep them relatively even for consistent cooking.
• Place the potato wedges in a large bowl and cover them completely with cold water. You can also add a couple of ice cubes to the water to keep it nice and cold.
• Let the potatoes soak for at least 30 minutes. If you can, soak them for a bit longer—the longer they soak, the more starch will be released, and the crispier your wedges will be.
• After soaking, drain the water from the potatoes and pat them dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels. It's important to remove as much moisture as possible before moving on to the next step, which is seasoning and air frying.

By following these steps and allowing your potatoes to soak in cold water, you'll be well on your way to achieving the perfect crispy texture for your air-fried potato wedges.

Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels

The reason drying the potatoes is so important is that any remaining moisture can turn to steam during the air-frying process, preventing the wedges from crisping up properly. By taking the time to pat them dry, you're ensuring that your wedges will have that sought-after crunchy exterior.

Additionally, drying the potatoes provides a better surface for the seasonings to adhere to. You want those flavours to really cling to the potatoes, and a dry surface will help ensure that the spices and oils are evenly distributed and absorbed. This step sets the foundation for a well-seasoned, flavourful final product.

Finally, drying the potatoes with paper towels is a quick and convenient method. It's a simple task that doesn't require any special equipment or techniques. It's a straightforward step that anyone can do, and it makes a significant difference in the overall quality of your air-fried potato wedges.

Use Russet potatoes for the best results

For the crispiest, fluffiest, and most delicious potato wedges, the type of potato you use is crucial. And when it comes to air frying, Russet potatoes are the best choice.

Russet potatoes, also known as Idaho potatoes, are large, brown-skinned potatoes with a starchy texture and a light, fluffy interior when cooked. They are ideal for making potato wedges because they have a higher starch content, which makes for extra-fluffy interiors, and they crisp up beautifully.

When choosing Russet potatoes, look for those that are firm, smooth, and free of any sprouting or green discolouration. The potatoes should also feel heavy for their size, which indicates that they are dense and full of moisture.

Before cutting your Russet potatoes into wedges, be sure to scrub them clean and remove any eyes or sprouts. Then, cut them into evenly sized wedges, as this will ensure even cooking.

Once your wedges are cut, it's essential to rinse and soak them in cold water to remove excess starch. This step is key to achieving maximum crispiness. Soak them for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for even crispier results. After soaking, be sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly before tossing them with oil and seasonings.

Now, you're ready to air fry! Place the wedges in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them, and cook at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, tossing them halfway through.

Using Russet potatoes for your air fryer wedges will ensure you get that perfect combination of crispy exterior and fluffy interior that makes for an irresistible side dish or snack. So, go ahead and give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F

Preheating your air fryer to 400°F is a crucial step in achieving the perfect crispy potato wedges. This temperature ensures that your wedges will cook evenly and efficiently, resulting in a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you master the preheating process:

Step 1: Understand Your Air Fryer

Different models of air fryers may have specific instructions for preheating. Consult your air fryer's user manual to see if there are any special instructions or recommendations for preheating. Some air fryers may not require preheating, so it's essential to check beforehand.

Step 2: Set the Temperature

Set the temperature of your air fryer to 400°F. This temperature is ideal for cooking potato wedges as it will create a balance between a crispy exterior and a fluffy, tender interior.

Step 3: Allow Time for Preheating

After setting the temperature, give your air fryer a few minutes to preheat. The time required may vary depending on your air fryer's model and specifications. Refer to the user manual for an approximate preheating time.

Step 4: Prepare the Potato Wedges

While your air fryer is preheating, you can use this time efficiently by preparing your potato wedges. This includes scrubbing, cutting, and seasoning the potatoes. For optimal crispiness, it is recommended to soak the potato wedges in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch.

Step 5: Check the Temperature

Once the preheating time has elapsed, double-check that your air fryer has reached the desired temperature of 400°F. Most air fryers will have an indicator light or a display that shows when the set temperature has been reached.

Step 6: Grease the Air Fryer Basket (Optional)

Depending on the recipe you are following, you may need to grease the air fryer basket before adding the potato wedges. This step helps prevent sticking and ensures that your wedges release easily after cooking.

By following these steps, you'll be on your way to creating delicious, crispy potato wedges in your air fryer! Remember to refer to your specific air fryer's instructions and always exercise caution when handling hot appliances.

Season the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika

To make potato wedges in an air fryer, start by rinsing and soaking your potatoes in cold water. This is an important step to ensure maximum crispiness. The potatoes should be soaked for at least 30 minutes to release excess starch.

After soaking, remove the water from the potato wedges and dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Place the wedges in a large bowl and add olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Toss the wedges until they are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture. You can also add other spices like parsley, chilli powder, or cayenne pepper for some heat.

Once the wedges are seasoned, place them in the air fryer basket. It's best to cook them in a single layer if possible, and you may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry the wedges at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, tossing them occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

For extra flavour and crispness, toss the cooked wedges with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Frequently asked questions