How To Cook Raw French Fries In Air Fryer

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How To Cook Raw French Fries In Air Fryer

Deliciously Crispy Raw French Fries: A Guide to Air Fryer Perfection

French fries are a classic comfort food that everyone loves. However, traditional frying methods can leave you feeling weighed down by excess oil. Luckily, there is a healthier alternative – the air fryer! In this article, we will show you how to prep and cook raw French fries in an air fryer, so you can enjoy guilt-free and crispy goodness.

What You’ll Need:

  • Raw potatoes
  • Olive oil
  • Salt and pepper for seasoning
  • An air fryer

Step 1: Prep and Cut the Potatoes

Start by selecting fresh and firm raw potatoes. Scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt and impurities. You can choose your preferred potato variety, such as russet or Yukon gold, for this recipe.

Next, cut the potatoes into even-sized sticks or wedges, about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures that the fries will cook uniformly and achieve that perfect golden crispiness.

Step 2: Soak and Rinse

To achieve extra-crispy fries, it’s important to remove excess starch. Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes will help achieve this. This process also helps prevent them from sticking together during cooking.

After soaking, rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove any remaining starch. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Step 3: Season and Preheat the Air Fryer

Drizzle the dried potato sticks lightly with olive oil, tossing them gently to ensure even coating. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper, or any other seasoning of your choice. This is where you can get creative and experiment with flavors like paprika, garlic powder, or even parmesan cheese.

Now, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. Preheating ensures that the fries cook evenly and become extra crispy.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Once preheated, transfer the seasoned raw French fries into the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer, allowing enough space for hot air to circulate and cook the fries evenly.

Set the air fryer to cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, pausing halfway through to shake or flip the fries. This helps to ensure they crisp up on all sides.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your raw French fries have turned golden brown and achieved that mouthwatering crispness, remove them from the air fryer. Serve them immediately while they’re still hot and crunchy.

Pair your air-fried French fries with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or a tangy aioli. The possibilities are endless!

Now that you know how to cook raw French fries in an air fryer, you can indulge in this tasty treat without the guilt. So go ahead, enjoy your crispy and healthier version of everyone’s favorite side dish!

If you want to share your tips and tricks on how to cook raw french fries in an air fryer, head over to the Cooking Techniques forum section and join the discussion!
FAQ:
Yes, you can cook frozen French fries in an air fryer. Simply preheat the air fryer to the recommended temperature and cook the frozen fries for the instructed time, or until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer before cooking French fries?
Preheating the air fryer is recommended for optimal results. Most air fryers have a preheat function, so make sure to preheat it for a few minutes before adding your raw French fries. This will help ensure even cooking and crispiness.
What kind of oil should I use to cook raw French fries in an air fryer?
It is best to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand the high temperatures needed for air frying and will help achieve a crispy texture on your French fries.
How do I season raw French fries before cooking them in an air fryer?
Before cooking, you can toss the raw French fries in a mixture of salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or any other seasonings you prefer. This will help add flavor to the fries as they cook in the air fryer.
Absolutely! Raw sweet potato fries can be cooked in an air fryer as well. Just follow the same steps as cooking regular French fries. Keep in mind that sweet potato fries may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their density.
How long should I cook raw French fries in the air fryer?
The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fries and the air fryer model you are using. As a general guideline, cook raw French fries in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes at a temperature of 400°F (200°C). However, it’s always best to consult the specific instructions that came with your air fryer. Remember to shake the basket or flip the fries halfway through cooking for even browning.
Can I cook a large batch of raw French fries in the air fryer?
It is possible to cook a large batch of raw French fries in an air fryer, but make sure not to overcrowd the basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and result in less crispy fries. Cook the fries in batches if needed, ensuring there is enough space for proper air circulation to achieve the desired texture.

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