Yams are a nutritious and delicious root vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. One popular method is using an air fryer, which can give you crispy and flavorful yams without the need for excessive oil. If you’re wondering how long to cook yams in an air fryer, you’ve come to the right place. In this quick and easy cooking guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve perfectly cooked yams every time.
The Benefits of Cooking Yams in an Air Fryer
Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. When it comes to yams, using an air fryer can have many benefits. Firstly, air frying helps retain the natural sweetness and flavors of yams without overpowering them with extra oil or fat. The hot circulating air in the fryer mimics the effect of deep frying but with significantly less oil, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior.
The second benefit is the time saved when cooking yams in an air fryer. Unlike traditional oven baking, which can take up to an hour or more, air frying yams only takes a fraction of that time. With the right temperature and cooking time, you can have perfectly cooked yams in as little as 15 to 20 minutes.
Choosing the Right Yams
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to choose the right type of yams. Look for yams that are firm, smooth, and free from any bruises or blemishes. The skin should be vibrant and uniform in color. The most common variety of yams found in grocery stores is the orange-fleshed sweet potato.
Preparing Yams for Air Frying
Once you’ve selected your yams, it’s time to prepare them for the air fryer. Start by washing the yams thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or residue. Use a vegetable brush if necessary to scrub away any stubborn debris. After washing, pat the yams dry with a clean kitchen towel.
Next, peel the yams using a vegetable peeler or a knife. Although the skin of yams is edible, removing it will result in a smoother and more enjoyable texture. Once peeled, cut the yams into even-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. For a quick and easy option, you can also slice the yams into rounds or wedges.
Seasoning Options
Yams have a naturally sweet and nutty flavor that can be enhanced with various seasonings. Here are a few popular seasoning options to consider:
1. Sweet and Savory: Toss the yams with a mixture of brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This combination will bring out the sweetness of the yams while adding a hint of warm spices.
2. Garlic and Herb: Coat the yams with olive oil, minced garlic, dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This savory option is perfect for those who prefer a more robust flavor.
3. Spicy: For a kick of heat, try coating the yams with a mixture of chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and a touch of salt. This seasoning option pairs well with a cooling dip or sauce.
Air Frying the Yams
Now that your yams are prepped and seasoned, it’s time to cook them in the air fryer. Follow these simple steps for the best results:
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the yams cook evenly and achieve that desirable golden-brown exterior.
2. Place the seasoned yams in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this may result in uneven cooking.
3. Cook the yams for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking or flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The exact cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your yam pieces.
4. Check for doneness by inserting a fork or knife into a yam piece. It should easily slide in and out, indicating that the yams are tender.
5. If the yams are not yet fully cooked, you can continue air frying them in 2 to 3-minute increments until they reach your desired texture.
6. Once cooked, carefully remove the yams from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Serving and Enjoying Air Fried Yams
Air fried yams can be enjoyed in various ways. They make a tasty and satisfying side dish for meals or a delicious snack on their own. For added flavor and texture, you can drizzle the cooked yams with a small amount of melted butter, sprinkle them with fresh herbs, or serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also incorporate air fried yams into other recipes. They can be mashed, pureed, or added to soups, stews, and even baked goods. The possibilities are endless when it comes to these versatile and nutritious root vegetables.
Conclusion
Cooking yams in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this delicious and nutritious root vegetable. With the right temperature, cooking time, and seasonings, you can achieve perfectly cooked yams that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Whether served as a side dish or incorporated into other recipes, air fried yams are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of yams in a healthier and more convenient way.