Instant Pot Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used to make a wide range of dishes. One of the most popular and delicious dishes that can be made in an Instant Pot Air Fryer is perfect fries. If you are a fan of crispy and golden fries, then this simple guide will help you achieve the perfect fries every time you use your Instant Pot Air Fryer.
Gather the Ingredients and Tools
1. Potatoes
The first step in making perfect fries is to gather the ingredients. The main ingredient for fries is, of course, the potatoes. You can use any type of potato that you prefer, but Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best. They have a higher starch content, which results in a crispier and fluffier texture.
2. Olive oil
Next, you will need some olive oil. Olive oil adds flavor to the fries and helps in achieving that perfect crunchy texture. You can use other types of oil as well, such as canola oil or vegetable oil, but olive oil is highly recommended due to its health benefits.
3. Salt and seasonings
To add flavor to your fries, you will need salt and any other seasonings of your choice. Classic salted fries are always a delight, but you can experiment with different seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, or even parmesan cheese to give your fries a unique twist.
4. Instant Pot Air Fryer
Lastly, you will need an Instant Pot Air Fryer. This appliance combines the functions of a pressure cooker and an air fryer, making it perfect for cooking a variety of dishes, including fries. It uses hot air circulation to cook the food, resulting in crispy and evenly cooked fries.
Prepare the Potatoes
1. Wash and peel
Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. After washing, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. Make sure to remove all the skin for a consistent texture.
2. Cut into fries
Once the potatoes are peeled, cut them into evenly-sized fries. You can cut them into thick or thin fries, depending on your preference. It is recommended to cut them into ¼-inch to ½-inch thick slices for a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.
3. Rinse and dry
After cutting the fries, rinse them in cold water to remove excess starch. This step helps in achieving crispier fries. Once rinsed, pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Ensuring they are completely dry will prevent them from becoming soggy during the cooking process.
Cooking in the Instant Pot Air Fryer
1. Preheat the Instant Pot Air Fryer
Before cooking the fries, it is essential to preheat your Instant Pot Air Fryer. This will ensure that the fries cook evenly and become crispy on the outside. Set the air fryer to the desired temperature (generally around 400°F) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
2. Toss with olive oil and seasonings
In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with olive oil until they are evenly coated. Olive oil helps the fries become crispy and prevents them from sticking together. Add salt and any other seasonings of your choice and toss again to ensure that all the fries are well coated.
3. Arrange the fries in the air fryer basket
Once the Instant Pot Air Fryer is preheated, carefully place the fries in the air fryer basket. Make sure to arrange them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the basket will result in unevenly cooked fries, so it’s better to cook them in batches if needed.
4. Cook to perfection
Set the timer on the Instant Pot Air Fryer according to the desired crispiness and tenderness of your fries. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fries and the crunchiness you prefer. It is recommended to start with approximately 15 minutes and adjust accordingly.
5. Shake or flip halfway through
To ensure even cooking, shake the air fryer basket or flip the fries halfway through the cooking process. This will help in achieving uniform crispness on all sides of the fries. Be careful while flipping to avoid burning yourself with the hot basket.
6. Serve and enjoy
Once the cooking time is up and the fries are golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the Instant Pot Air Fryer. Serve them hot and enjoy your homemade perfect fries. You can serve them with ketchup, mayonnaise, or any other dipping sauce of your choice.
Conclusion
Making perfect fries in an Instant Pot Air Fryer is simple and easy. By following the steps mentioned in this guide, you can achieve crispy, golden, and delicious fries every time. Remember to gather the right ingredients, prepare the potatoes properly, and cook them at the right temperature. With practice, you will become a pro at making perfect fries that will impress your family and friends. So, bring out your Instant Pot Air Fryer and start creating the best fries you have ever tasted!