Making air fryer French fries from scratch with fresh potatoes is simple and delicious! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you prepare them:
Ingredients:
- 2 large russet potatoes (or any variety of your choice)
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil (or other cooking oil)
- Salt (to taste)
- Optional seasonings (e.g., pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or your favorite seasoning blend)
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bowl
- Paper towels (or a clean kitchen towel)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt.
- Peel the potatoes if you prefer skinless fries, but leaving the skin on adds texture and flavor.
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Cut the Potatoes:
- Slice the potatoes into even sticks (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick) for uniform cooking. Aim for similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
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Soak the Potatoes:
- Place the cut fries in a bowl of cold water and soak them for at least 30 minutes. This step helps to remove excess starch and results in crispier fries.
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Drain and Dry:
- After soaking, drain the water and rinse the fries under cold water.
- Pat the fries dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove as much moisture as possible.
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Season the Fries:
- In a bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil until they are evenly coated.
- Add salt and any optional seasonings you like. Toss again to distribute the seasonings.
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Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
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Air Fry the Fries:
- Place the seasoned fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Air fry for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the fries and your specific air fryer model.
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Check for Crispiness:
- Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer. If they need more time, air fry in additional 2-3 minute increments until they reach your desired crispiness.
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Serve:
- Season with additional salt if needed and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade air fryer French fries with your favorite dipping sauce!
Tips:
- Experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor.
- For extra crispiness, you can toss the fries with a little cornstarch before adding oil.
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade air fryer French fries!