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Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes Recipe

If you’re on the lookout for a delicious side dish that’s both crispy and fluffy, look no further than air fryer smashed potatoes. This recipe combines the delightful crunch of roasted potatoes with a potato’s soft, tender centre, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time. Whether served as a side to your favourite main or enjoyed as a snack, these smashed potatoes are bound to become a family favourite.

Why Choose Air Fryer Smashed Potatoes?

Using an air fryer not only cuts down the cooking time but also reduces the amount of oil needed, making this dish a healthier alternative to traditional roasted potatoes. The air fryer circulates hot air around the potatoes, ensuring they are cooked evenly and achieve that coveted crispiness without the need for deep frying.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of air fryer smashed potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g baby or new potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for an extra flavour boost)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they’ll be too soft to smash.

2. Drain and Cool: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This step is crucial as it helps in achieving the desired texture.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: While the potatoes are cooling, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your smashed potatoes begin cooking immediately for that perfect crisp.

4. Smash the Potatoes: On a clean surface, place the potatoes spaced apart. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it’s flattened, taking care not to break them apart completely.

5. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the smashed potatoes to the bowl and gently toss them to coat evenly with the seasoning mix.

6. Air Fry the Potatoes: Arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Air fry the potatoes for about 12-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.

7. Add Optional Toppings: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 3 minutes of cooking. You might also consider adding fresh herbs for that extra flavour kick.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the smashed potatoes from the air fryer. Garnish with any remaining fresh herbs, and serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Smashed Potatoes

• Choosing Potatoes: Baby potatoes work best for this recipe. However, you can experiment with other types, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
• Seasoning Variations: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings. Consider adding paprika for a smoky flavour or a sprinkle of cayenne for a bit of heat.
• Storage: Leftover smashed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a crispy finish.

Conclusion

Air fryer smashed potatoes are an incredibly versatile side dish that can complement a wide array of meals. Whether paired with grilled meats, enjoyed alongside a refreshing salad, or simply savoured on their own, these crispy delights are sure to impress. With minimal effort and maximum flavour, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their potato game. Enjoy the satisfying crunch paired with soft interiors — a perfect culinary combination!