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French fries—the beloved side dish that has won hearts all over the world. From the bustling streets of Paris to local diners in small towns, the golden, crispy potato sticks have become a quintessential part of culinary culture. Their classic appeal lies not only in their taste but also in their versatility; they can be served plain, topped with cheese, or even as a base for hearty dishes like poutine. However, as health consciousness rises, many are seeking ways to enjoy this indulgent treat without the guilt of deep-frying. Enter the air fryer, a kitchen appliance that has revolutionized how we cook our favorite foods.

The Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer French Fries

Craving crispy French fries but want a healthier option? Discover the ultimate air fryer French fries that deliver that perfect crunch with significantly less oil! This guide walks you through choosing the right Russet potatoes, soaking techniques for achieving the best texture, and the essential seasonings that elevate flavor. With step-by-step instructions, you’ll learn how to make fries that are restaurant-quality right at home—guilt-free! Enjoy your fries with creative dips and garnishes for an even more delightful experience.
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Ingredients
  

4 large russet potatoes

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: Fresh herbs (rosemary or parsley) for garnish

Instructions
 

Prep the Potatoes: Start by peeling the russet potatoes (if desired) and then cut them into even, thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick for consistent cooking.

    Soak: Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl of cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and helps achieve maximum crispiness.

      Dry the Potatoes: After soaking, drain and rinse the potatoes. Pat them dry thoroughly using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing moisture is key for crisp fries!

        Season: In a large bowl, toss the dried potato strips with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

          Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.

            Air Fry: Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. You may need to fry in batches depending on your air fryer size. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking.

              Crisp further if necessary: If you prefer extra crispy fries, add an additional 5 minutes of cooking time, checking frequently to avoid burning.

                Garnish and Serve: Once golden and crispy, remove the fries from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!

                  Prep Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 4