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Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries Recipe

Fries are a beloved snack, perfect for any occasion, whether you’re enjoying a casual night in or entertaining guests. While deep-frying can add excessive oil and calories to this already indulgent treat, the air fryer offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing the crispy texture we all adore. This recipe for Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries is not only simple to make but also utterly delicious, providing a flavour-packed potato delight that can be served as an appetiser or side dish.

Ingredients

To whip up a batch of these delectable fries, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g (about 4 medium) potatoes – Maris Piper or King Edward work well
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil – or any other cooking oil of your choice
• 3–4 cloves of garlic – minced (adjust according to your preference)
• 40g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon of paprika – for a touch of smokiness
• Salt and pepper – to taste
• Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Grater (for the Parmesan)
• Spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on can add extra texture and flavour. Cut the potatoes into even-sized fries, approximately 1 cm thick. This ensures they cook evenly, leading to that perfect crispiness.

2. Soak the Fries

Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes is a crucial step. This helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture.

3. Season the Fries

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the fries are well-coated. This step not only adds flavour but also helps the Parmesan adhere to the fries later on.

4. Air Fry the Fries

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. Once hot, place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Cook the fries for 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on them as cooking times may vary based on the model of your air fryer and the thickness of your fries. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.

5. Add the Parmesan

Once the fries are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and toss them in a bowl with the grated Parmesan cheese while they are still hot. The residual heat will melt the cheese slightly, allowing it to coat the fries beautifully.

6. Serve and Garnish

Transferring the Garlic Parmesan fries to a serving platter, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy!

Variations and Tips

• Herb Infusion: Feel free to add your favourite herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to add an aromatic touch.
• Vegan Twist: Replace Parmesan with a vegan cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve your fries with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli, ketchup, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Fries are a guilt-free yet indulgent treat that is sure to impress anyone you serve them to. With their golden exterior and delectable garlic and cheese flavour, these fries are bound to become a new favourite in your household. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the easy pleasure of homemade fries—crispy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible!