- 3-4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet are best)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Air Fryer or Oven:
- Air Fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C).
- Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Scrub and wash the potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on gives extra texture and nutrients.
- Cut the potatoes into thin, uniform sticks for even cooking. The thinner the cut, the faster they’ll crisp up!
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, toss the potato sticks with olive oil (or spray them lightly with cooking spray). If you’re really aiming to cut calories, a light spray of oil works well.
- Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, and toss until evenly coated. You can also mix in your favorite herbs or spices here for extra flavor.
- Cook the Fries:
- In the Air Fryer: Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking. Depending on your air fryer’s power, you may need to add another 1-2 minutes if you want extra crispness.
- In the Oven: Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure they’re golden on all sides.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the fries from the air fryer or oven. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or rosemary.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like ketchup, aioli, or a tangy yogurt dip.
Tips for the Best Results
- Even Slicing: Uniform potato sticks ensure that all your fries cook at the same speed, giving you evenly crispy fries.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: In the air fryer, make sure there’s enough space between the fries for hot air to circulate. Overcrowding will result in less crispy fries.
- Tossing for Crispness: Halfway through cooking, whether in the oven or air fryer, shake or flip the fries to make sure they crisp up evenly.
Health Benefits of This Method
By using an air fryer or oven, you significantly reduce the amount of oil required, which lowers the calorie count. Olive oil is rich in healthy fats, but a small amount goes a long way in this recipe. Additionally, potatoes are a good source of vitamins like vitamin C and B6, as well as potassium, making this a healthier alternative to traditional fries.
Conclusion
This 5-minute, no-fry French fry recipe is a game-changer. Not only is it quicker and less greasy than frying, but it also delivers the same crispy texture and delicious taste that we all crave. Whether you’re serving these fries as a snack, a side dish, or indulging in them late at night, they are sure to become a household favorite. So, the next time you’re craving French fries, ditch the fryer and try this quick, healthier version instead. Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!