Yam fries are a delicious alternative to traditional potato fries, and when cooked in an air fryer, they become even more irresistible. Not only are they tasty, but they are also a healthier option as they are cooked with minimal oil. In this article, we will guide you through a simple and easy recipe on how to make yam fries in an air fryer, ensuring that you can enjoy this delightful snack guilt-free.
Gathering the Ingredients
To make yam fries in an air fryer, you will need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Yam:
The star of this recipe is, of course, the yam itself. Look for yams that are firm, unblemished, and have smooth skin. Aim for medium-sized yams, as they will cook more evenly.
2. Olive oil:
Even though we are using an air fryer, a small amount of oil is still needed to achieve that crispy texture. Olive oil works best for this recipe, as it adds a delicious flavor to the fries.
3. Salt and spices:
Season your yam fries with your favorite spices. We recommend using a combination of salt, paprika, and garlic powder for a savory and aromatic flavor.
Preparing the Yam Fries
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to prepare the yam fries. Follow these simple steps:
1. Wash and peel the yam:
Start by giving the yam a good wash under running water. Once clean, use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. Make sure to peel off any brown spots or imperfections.
2. Cut the yam:
After peeling, cut the yam into evenly sized strips. Aim for a thickness of around 1/4 inch, as this will ensure that the fries cook uniformly.
3. Soak the yam:
Now, place the yam strips in a bowl filled with cold water. Let them soak for about 30 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries.
4. Preheat your air fryer:
While the yams are soaking, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that the fries start cooking immediately once they are placed in the air fryer basket.
5. Drain and pat dry:
After the 30-minute soaking period, drain the yam strips and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving crispy results.
6. Season the fries:
In a large bowl, drizzle the yam strips with olive oil and sprinkle your desired amount of salt, paprika, and garlic powder. Toss the fries gently to coat them evenly with the oil and spices.
7. Place in the air fryer:
Now, it’s time to cook the yam fries. Arrange the seasoned yam strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. This allows hot air to circulate around each fry, resulting in a crispy exterior.
8. Air fry:
Cook the yam fries in the air fryer for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. It’s essential to shake the basket every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
9. Serve and enjoy:
Once the yam fries are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them as a delightful side dish, a savory snack, or even as an appetizer. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup or garlic aioli.
Additional Tips and Variations
While the recipe we provided is a basic one for making yam fries in an air fryer, there are a few more tips and variations you can try to customize your fries:
1. Spicy kick:
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
2. Seasoning alternatives:
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. You can try adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, or sprinkle some Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
3. Crispy coating:
To achieve an even crispier coating, you can lightly coat the yam fries in a thin layer of cornstarch before placing them in the air fryer.
4. Dipping sauce ideas:
Besides the traditional ketchup dip, you can explore various other sauces. Try serving your yam fries with chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or even a tangy BBQ sauce for a flavorful twist.
In Conclusion
Making yam fries in an air fryer is a simple and healthy way to enjoy this delightful snack. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve perfectly crispy yam fries that are both delicious and guilt-free. Remember to gather your ingredients, wash and peel the yams, season them to your liking, and cook them in the air fryer until golden and crispy. Now, all that’s left to do is savor the deliciousness of your homemade yam fries. Happy cooking!