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Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes: A Quick and Delicious Side Dish

When it comes to British cuisine, few dishes are as beloved as a proper serving of crispy roasted potatoes. Traditionally a staple at Sunday lunches and festive gatherings, these golden delights pair perfectly with roast meats, gravy, and an array of seasonal vegetables. Thanks to the advent of the air fryer, preparing perfectly roasted potatoes has never been quicker or easier.

The Magic of the Air Fryer

Air fryers have gained popularity over the past few years, and it’s easy to see why. They offer a healthier alternative to deep frying by using significantly less oil, whilst still achieving that coveted crispy texture. With an air fryer, you can enjoy your favourite comfort foods, guilt-free. It also means less time spent standing by the oven, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your meal preparation.

Ingredients

For a simple yet scrumptious batch of air fryer roasted potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g of baby potatoes or your choice of potatoes (Maris Piper or King Edward work well)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or mixed herbs)
• Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (parsley or chives)

Method

Step 1: Preparation

1. Wash and cut the potatoes: Rinse your potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. If using baby potatoes, halve them; if using larger potatoes, chop them into even-sized chunks of about 2.5cm. This will ensure they cook evenly.

2. Boil the potatoes (optional): For extra fluffiness, consider parboiling the cut potatoes in salted water for 5-6 minutes. Drain and allow them to steam dry for a couple of minutes before moving to the next step. This step is optional but highly recommended for a deliciously fluffy interior.

Step 2: Seasoning

1. Season the potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, and dried herbs. Toss the potatoes in the mixture until they are evenly coated. This not only adds flavour but also helps achieve that crispy exterior.

Step 3: Cooking

1. Preheat the air fryer: Preheating your air fryer for around 5 minutes at 200°C (or 180°C if it’s a fan oven) will help to achieve the perfect crispy finish.

2. Air fry the potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Depending on the capacity of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.

3. Cooking time: Set the air fryer to cook for approximately 20-25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even browning. The potatoes should emerge golden and crispy on the outside, whilst remaining tender on the inside.

Step 4: Serving

1. Garnish and enjoy: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving dish. If desired, sprinkle with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavour and presentation. Serve immediately alongside your favourite main dish.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Roasted Potatoes

• Even sizing: Make sure all potato pieces are of uniform size for even cooking.
• Oil control: Don’t skimp on the oil; it’s crucial for achieving that crispy texture. However, you won’t need as much as traditional roasting methods thanks to the air fryer.
• Experiment with flavours: Feel free to vary the herbs and spices. A dash of garlic powder, paprika, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese in the last few minutes of cooking can elevate the flavours even further.

Conclusion

Air fryer roasted potatoes are not only a breeze to prepare, but they also make for a hearty and delicious side dish that complements a variety of meals. Whether you’re serving them with roast chicken, grilled fish, or a vegetarian option, these little nuggets of joy are sure to become a family favourite. So, dust off that air fryer and give this quick and scrumptious recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!