These air fryer French fries are a healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried fries. Made from fresh, real potatoes, they are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
This recipe is simple and quick, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. You can customize the seasoning to your liking, making them perfect as a side dish or a snack.
Why Choose Air Fryer French Fries?
Air fryer French fries offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Unlike traditional deep-fried options, these fries are cooked with significantly less oil, making them a lighter choice without sacrificing flavor.
Using fresh, real potatoes ensures that each fry is packed with natural goodness. The air fryer technology allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and tender, providing a satisfying texture that everyone loves.
Preparing Your Potatoes
The first step in creating these delicious fries is selecting the right potatoes. Medium russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy content, which contributes to the perfect fry.
After washing and peeling (if desired), cut the potatoes into even strips. Consistency in size will help them cook evenly, ensuring that every fry reaches that golden-brown perfection.
Soaking for Crispiness
Soaking the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This process removes excess starch, which can lead to soggy fries. By soaking, you enhance the crispiness of the final product.
Once soaked, drain and thoroughly dry the potato strips. This step is essential for achieving that desirable crunch when they cook in the air fryer.
Seasoning Your Fries
Seasoning is where you can get creative. A simple mix of olive oil, salt, and pepper works wonders, but feel free to add garlic powder or paprika for an extra flavor boost.
Toss the dried potato strips in the seasoning mixture until they are evenly coated. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, making your fries irresistible.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for optimal cooking conditions. Once ready, place the seasoned fries in a single layer in the basket. This allows hot air to circulate around each fry, promoting even cooking.
Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. This simple action helps prevent sticking and ensures that all sides of the fries become crispy and golden.
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, let the fries cool slightly before serving. This brief cooling period helps maintain their crispiness. Serve them hot alongside a small bowl of ketchup for dipping, enhancing the classic fry experience.
These air fryer French fries make a fantastic side dish or snack, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the homemade appeal and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created a healthier version of a beloved treat.
Easy Air Fryer French Fries Recipe
These French fries are made by cutting fresh potatoes into strips, tossing them in a little oil and seasoning, and cooking them in an air fryer until golden and crispy. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut them into even-sized strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Soak the Potatoes: Soak the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps achieve crispiness.
- Dry the Potatoes: Drain and pat the potato strips dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the dried potato strips with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you prefer.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Fries: Place the seasoned potato strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the fries from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Soaking Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g