Air Fryer Crispy French Fries

In recent years, air frying has taken the culinary world by storm, becoming a beloved method for preparing a variety of dishes with a healthier twist. This innovative cooking technique utilizes hot air circulation to create a crispy exterior while retaining moisture within, allowing for the indulgence of fried foods without the excessive oil. Among the most popular air-fried delights are French fries—an all-time favorite snack that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying to make at home.

Discover the joy of making perfectly golden air fryer French fries at home! This healthier cooking method uses hot air circulation to create irresistibly crispy fries without excessive oil. Learn how to select the best potatoes, prepare them for optimal crunch, and season them to perfection. In under 30 minutes, you can indulge in flavorful fries that rival your favorite takeout. Perfect for a snack or side dish, enjoy this delightful culinary adventure!

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Ingredients

4 medium-sized russet potatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for a smoky flavor)

Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly. Peel them if you prefer skinless fries, or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrition. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized strips, about ¼ inch thick, for uniform cooking.

Soak the Fries:

Place the cut fries into a large bowl filled with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.

Dry the Fries:

After soaking, drain the potatoes and spread them out onto a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them dry completely to remove any moisture.

Season the Fries:

In a large bowl, combine the dried fries with olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), and black pepper. Toss until the fries are well-coated with the oil and seasoning.

Air Fryer Setup:

Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the fries start cooking immediately, enhancing their crispiness.

Air Fry the Fries:

Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches depending on your air fryer size. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them around the 12-minute mark for your desired level of crispiness.

Taste Testing:

Once they’re golden brown and crispy, remove the fries from the air fryer. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like them even crispier, return them to the air fryer for a few more minutes.

Serve:

Transfer the crispy French fries to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings