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Air Fryer Celery Root Fries: A Deliciously Healthy Alternative

As the culinary world continues to innovate, air fryers have emerged as a popular kitchen appliance, transforming the way we prepare our favourite dishes. Among the myriad of options, air fryer celery root fries have gained traction as a healthy and delightful alternative to traditional potato fries. This article will explore the versatility and benefits of celery root fries, along with a simple recipe to help you whip up this tasty snack or side dish.

What is Celery Root?

Celery root, also known as celeriac, is a root vegetable closely related to celery. With its knobbly exterior and creamy, white flesh, celery root has a subtle, nutty flavour that makes it a fantastic base for numerous dishes. Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium, it is a nutritious option for those looking to add variety to their diet.

Why Choose Air Fryer Celery Root Fries?

1. Healthier Cooking: Air fryers use significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, resulting in lower calorie and fat content. By opting for celery root fries, you’re choosing a lower-carb alternative to regular potato fries, making it a great option for those following various diets, including low-carb and keto.

2. Quick and Easy: The air fryer cooks food quickly and evenly, allowing you to enjoy a tasty side dish in just a fraction of the time it would take to prepare them in an oven or deep fryer.

3. Versatile Flavours: Celery root can easily absorb flavours, which means you can customise your fries to suit your taste. From classic seasoning blends to more exotic spices, the possibilities are endless.

Recipe: Air Fryer Celery Root Fries

Ingredients:

• 1 large celery root (celeriac)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or your preferred seasoning)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: Fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme) for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Celery Root:
   Begin by peeling the celery root with a sharp knife or a vegetable peeler, making sure to remove the tough outer skin. Once peeled, cut the celery root into fry-sized strips, approximately 1cm thick for even cooking.

2. Season the Fries:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the cut celery root fries and toss them gently to ensure they are evenly coated in the seasoning mixture.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy texture.

4. Cook the Fries:
   Carefully place the celery root fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches depending on your air fryer’s capacity. Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them towards the end; they should be golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve:
   Once cooked to perfection, transfer the fries to a serving plate. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch of flavour. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce, such as a tangy aioli or a healthy homemade ketchup.

Conclusion

Air fryer celery root fries present a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional fries, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. With their delightful flavour and crispy texture, they are sure to please even the most discerning palates. Easy to prepare and customise, this recipe is a great addition to your cooking repertoire. So grab your air fryer and enjoy the tasty goodness of these guilt-free fries!