French fries are a dish that can be enjoyed in so many different ways. They can make a great side dish, be added to burgers or sandwiches or even be the main course with a dipping sauce. With a crisp exterior and fluffy inside, it’s no wonder why so many people love them. Luckily, with an air fryer, you can easily make crispy and delicious French fries right at home. Here’s how to cook French fries in an air fryer.
Gather Materials and Prepare Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all of the materials you need. You will need an air fryer, cooking oil, and potatoes. For the cooking oil, choose a neutral oil such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil. Don’t use olive oil or butter because they have a low smoke point.
Next, wash and dry a few potatoes of your choice. Russet potatoes are the best for French fries because they have a high starch content, which makes them crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Cut them into your desired shape and size. The thinner the fries, the more crispy they’ll be. You can also leave the peel on if you prefer.
Cooking with an Air Fryer
Once you have your potatoes prepped, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius. This can take a few minutes. Some air fryers have built-in preheat features, while others will require you to set the temperature and time manually.
When your air fryer is preheated, lightly coat the potato slices with oil. This is important because it will help the potatoes get crispy. Place the potatoes in the air fryer for about 10-15 minutes. Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the potato slices, so keep an eye on them and shake the basket occasionally.
Seasoning and Serving
When the French fries are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a bit. You can toss them in your favorite seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, or even cajun spice mix. Serve them with ketchup, mayo, or other dipping sauces.
Cleaning Your Air Fryer
After every use, make sure to unplug your air fryer and let it cool down for 30 minutes. Then remove the basket and wash it with warm, soapy water. If there’s still oil residue, use a non-abrasive sponge or brush to clean it. Make sure to dry the basket thoroughly before placing it back into the air fryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen French fries in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Frozen French fries can be cooked in the air fryer as well. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally. You don’t need to defrost them first.
What else can I cook in an air fryer?
Air fryers are versatile and can be used to cook a variety of foods such as chicken wings, roasted vegetables, and even desserts like donuts and churros.
What are the benefits of using an air fryer?
Using an air fryer is a healthier alternative to traditional deep-frying because it uses less oil. It also cooks food faster and doesn’t leave behind a greasy mess. Plus, it’s convenient and easy to use.
Following these steps will help you cook crispy and delicious French fries in your air fryer. Experiment with different spices and dipping sauces to find your perfect pairing. Enjoy your homemade French fries without the guilt of eating unhealthy fast food or restaurant versions!