Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes (russet or any variety suitable for frying)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and peel the potatoes if desired. Cut them into evenly sized fries, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide.
- Soak the Potatoes:
- Place the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This helps remove some of the starch and makes the fries crispier.
- Dry the Potatoes:
- After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
- Season the Fries:
- In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil until evenly coated. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Toss again to ensure even seasoning.
- Air Fry the Fries:
- Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing the fries halfway through the cooking time for even crispiness.
- Check for Doneness:
- Keep an eye on the fries towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they reach your desired level of crispiness. Cook longer if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
- Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Serve the fries with ketchup, mayonnaise, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.