How to air fry new potatoes
Air frying is a popular cooking method that has gained recognition for its ability to produce crispy and delicious foods with significantly less oil. One of the many dishes that can be made using an air fryer is new potatoes. This versatile side dish is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to various main courses.
New potatoes are young potatoes that are harvested before their starch content has fully developed. They are known for their tender texture and thin skins, making them ideal for roasting or air frying. When cooked in an air fryer, new potatoes become crispy on the outside while remaining fluffy on the inside.
To air fry new potatoes, start by washing and drying them thoroughly. Then, cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, ensuring that they are evenly sized for even cooking. Toss the potatoes in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor.
Tips for Air Frying New Potatoes
Here are some tips to help you air fry new potatoes to perfection:
- Choose the right potatoes: Use new potatoes or small baby potatoes for the best results. Their small size allows for even cooking and a crispy texture.
- Preparation: Wash the potatoes thoroughly. You can leave the skins on for extra crunch, or peel them if you prefer. Cut the potatoes into equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Toss in oil: Coat the potatoes in a little oil before air frying. This will help in achieving a crispier and golden exterior.
- Seasoning: Add your preferred seasoning to enhance the flavor of the potatoes. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like rosemary or thyme.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before adding the potatoes. This allows for quicker and more consistent cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding: Arrange the potato pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. This will allow hot air to circulate evenly around the potatoes, resulting in a crispier texture.
- Air frying time and temperature: Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and air fry the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Adjust the timing according to the size of the potato pieces and desired level of crispness.
- Check for doneness: Test the potatoes with a fork or toothpick to ensure they are cooked through and tender on the inside.
- Serve immediately: Once the potatoes are done, serve them hot and enjoy! They can be served as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes.
Follow these tips to achieve perfectly crispy and delicious air-fried new potatoes every time.
Preparing the New Potatoes
Before air frying new potatoes, it is important to properly prepare them to ensure they are crispy and delicious. Follow these steps to get the best results:
- Wash the new potatoes under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Scrub the potatoes using a vegetable brush to remove any tough outer skin.
- Thinly slice off any sprouts or blemishes on the potatoes.
- If desired, you can peel the potatoes completely for a smoother texture.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a clean towel or paper towel to remove any excess moisture.
- Cut the potatoes into small, evenly-sized pieces for even cooking.
Once the new potatoes are properly prepared, they are ready to be air fried to perfection!
Air Frying the New Potatoes
As a healthier alternative to traditional frying, air frying is a popular cooking method for potatoes. If you’re looking to enjoy the natural flavors and crispiness of new potatoes without the excess oil, air frying is the way to go.
To air fry new potatoes, start by washing and drying them thoroughly. Scrub the potatoes with a brush under running water to remove any dirt or debris. Once the potatoes are clean, pat them dry with a towel.
Next, cut the new potatoes into evenly sized pieces. You can leave them whole if they are small, or slice them into halves or quarters if they are larger. Keeping the pieces similar in size will help ensure even cooking.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is preheating, you can season the new potatoes however you like. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any other desired spices or herbs. Coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.
Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer in the basket or tray. Avoid overcrowding the potatoes as this can prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking.
Place the basket or tray into the air fryer and cook the potatoes for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip or shake the potatoes halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning.
Once the new potatoes are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot as a tasty side dish or allow them to cool completely and use them in salads or other dishes.
Air frying new potatoes is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With minimal oil and maximum flavor, you’ll be able to savor the natural sweetness and crispiness of new potatoes, while still maintaining a healthy diet.