How To Blanch Potatoes For French Fries For Air Fryer

How to Blanch Potatoes for Perfect French Fries in the Air Fryer

French fries are a beloved snack or side dish, and making them at home can be a rewarding and delicious experience. One key step to achieving the perfect homemade French fries is blanching the potatoes before frying them in the air fryer. Blanching the potatoes helps to achieve that crispy exterior and fluffy interior that we all love in a good French fry. Here’s how to blanch potatoes for French fries for the air fryer:

Step 1: Selecting the Potatoes

When making French fries, it’s important to choose the right type of potato. Russet potatoes are the best choice for French fries due to their high starch content, which helps achieve that perfect texture. Make sure to select firm, unblemished potatoes for the best results.

Step 2: Preparing the Potatoes

Start by scrubbing the potatoes to remove any dirt and then peel them using a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, cut the potatoes into uniform sticks, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Blanching the Potatoes

Blanching the potatoes before air frying is a crucial step in achieving the perfect French fry texture. Here’s how to do it:

• Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil.
• Once the water is boiling, carefully add the potato sticks.
• Allow the potatoes to boil for 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the sticks.
• After blanching, promptly remove the potatoes and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
• Once the potatoes are cooled, remove them from the ice water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 4: Air Frying the Potatoes

Now that the potatoes are blanched, it’s time to air fry them to crispy perfection. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F and lightly coat the blanched potato sticks with oil. Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Seasoning and Serving

Once the French fries are done, season them with salt or any other desired seasonings while they’re still hot. Serve the fries immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Blanching the potatoes before air frying is the secret to achieving restaurant-quality French fries at home. With these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious, crispy French fries made in the air fryer, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals.

So, next time you’re craving French fries, try blanching the potatoes before air frying for a homemade treat that’s sure to impress!