In recent years, the air fryer has risen to become one of the most talked about kitchen appliances in the gastronaut’s arsenal. As a result, every amateur cook in the land will wax lyrical about this amazing new gadget and the magic it can do with food. Despite its enviable status, however, when searching for a worthwhile recipe to indulge in the practice of ‘Air Fryer Chips (Fries),’ most results are left wanting. Generally, these recipes will instruct “healthy-minded” folk to put chopped potato in the air-fryer, only to be eventually met with a disappointing plate of dried potato knives.
Here then, we will take a different approach by softening the spuds first, then adding just enough oil to make them tasty. Therefore, following trial, experimentation, and tribulation, I will share the fruit of my labour, the Best Ever Air Fryer Chips (fries, French fries, pomme frites, or, whatever you want to call them!) you can imagine.
Best Ever Air Fryer Chips (Fries)
Equipment
- 1 Saucepan
Ingredients
- 500g (1lb) Peeled White Potatoes
- 5g (½tsp) Baking (Bicarbonate of) Soda
- 3g (½tsp) Salt
- 15g (1tbsp) Sunflower Oil
- Water
Instructions
- Chop the Potatoes into the best chip-shapes you can manage, followed by a ruddy good rinse
- Fill the saucepan with enough water to completely submerge all of the potatoes, and bring it to the boil
- Once boiling, toss in the chopped spuds, along with 3g of salt and 5g of Baking Soda and give the whole thing a swift stir
- Allow the pot to return to its peak temperature, and continue boiling for 5 minutes
- In the meantime, pre-heat the air fryer to 200°C (390°F)
- When the potatoes have boiled for 5 minutes, strain them in a colander, and leave for around 1 minute for the excess water to evaporate
- Following this period, lightly brush the entirety of the spuds with Sunflower Oil, leaving no area un-lubricated
- Toss the whole lot into the Air Fryer, avoiding overlap where possible. Then fry for 15 minutes, turning once half way through
- Empty the contents on a plate, and season with whatever you want
Nutrition
Enhance Your Air fryer Chips (Fries) with a Little Tactical Nous
Potatoes – Depending on my current location, I don’t always have the luxury of selecting my potato variety. However, going for the general white option has always yielded satisfactory results. If you have access to a reasonable vegetable vendor, Maris Piper, Yukon Gold, and Russet spuds will all give you great chips every time!
Sauces – Historically, folks far and wide will partner their godly fried potatoes with a generous dollop of ketchup. However, potato enthusiasts can go that extra mile and enhance the experience with the application of homemade sauce. As a result, chip lovers can get their dip on with a spot of Garlic Aioli, Top Secret Chili Sauce, Barbecue Sauce and more!
Spices – If you travel around a little, you may discover a wild and beautiful world of varying spices accompanying the local version of fried potatoes. The Indians may drop in a little Garam Masala, the Chinese will heat things up with some chilies, and fancy folk will often add a touch of black pepper. As such, feel free to hit the spice draw with gusto and experiment with whatever you find.
Herbs – This provides a great option for those who want to stand out and really look like they know what they are doing. Throw a small handful of chopped rosemary, thyme or coriander* over the finished chips to give them that ‘artisan’ feeling. *Unless you’re one of those unlucky people with the gene that makes it taste like soap!
Completing the Experience
Other Condiments – For many right-minded individuals, a plate of chips isn’t complete without a sour addition to the flavour palette. Traditionally, this will come in the shape of a good old malt vinegar, however, both its balsamic and red wine cousins will make the dish a little more interesting. Other than that, lemon juice will also result in a similar flavour sensation. While, every single option listed should always feature a little salt.
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