air fryer potato fries

Ingredients

• 2 large russet potatoes (about 1 lb / 450 g), or 3 medium potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon fine salt (plus more to taste after cooking)
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes (10 minutes)

1. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them or leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients — leaving the skin on is recommended.
2. Cut the potatoes into fry-shaped sticks, about ¼ inch (6 mm) thick. Try to keep them uniform in size so they cook evenly. A mandoline makes this quick, but a sharp knife works fine.
3. As you cut, place the fries in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning and rinse away excess surface starch.

Step 2: Soak and Dry (10–15 minutes, passive)

1. Let the fries soak in cold water for at least 10 minutes (up to 30 minutes if you have time). This step removes starch and is the secret to crispier fries.
2. Drain the fries and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This is critical — any remaining moisture will steam the fries instead of crisping them.

Step 3: Season the Fries (2 minutes)

1. In a large bowl, toss the dry fries with olive oil until evenly coated.
2. Sprinkle with cornstarch (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Toss again until every fry is evenly seasoned.

Step 4: First Air Fry — Intensity: 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes

1. Preheat the air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
2. Arrange the fries in a single layer in the basket — do not overcrowd. Work in batches if necessary; crowding causes steaming instead of crisping.
3. Air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 12 minutes , shaking the basket halfway through (at the 6-minute mark) to promote even cooking.

Step 5: Second Air Fry — Intensity: 400°F (204°C) for 6–10 minutes

1. Increase the temperature to 400°F (204°C) .
2. Continue air frying for 6–10 minutes , shaking the basket every 3–4 minutes, until the fries are deep golden brown and crispy. Watch closely during the final minutes, as the higher heat can brown them quickly.
3. Total cook time should be 18–22 minutes depending on fry thickness and your air fryer model.

Step 6: Finish and Serve (1 minute)

1. Transfer the fries to a bowl and immediately sprinkle with a pinch of extra salt (and Parmesan or parsley, if desired).
2. Serve hot with ketchup, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: ~160 kcal · Protein: ~3 g · Fat: ~4 g · Carbohydrates: ~28 g Dietary · Saturated Fat: ~0.5 g · Fiber: ~3 g · Sugar: ~1.5 g · Sodium: ~300 mg