The Best Crispy Roast Potatoes Ever in an Air Fryer

Roast potatoes are a classic side dish, beloved for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior. With the advent of air fryers, achieving the perfect crispy roast potatoes has become easier and quicker than ever. This guide will show you how to make the best crispy roast potatoes ever using your air fryer, ensuring a deliciously golden-brown result every time.

Ingredients

To make the best crispy roast potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 pounds of potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold are ideal)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 teaspoon of sea salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme (optional for added flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Choose Your Potatoes: Begin by selecting the right type of potatoes. Russet potatoes are starchy and great for achieving a fluffy interior, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture. Choose medium-sized potatoes for even cooking.
2. Wash and Peel: Rinse the potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra texture and nutrients.
3. Cut the Potatoes: Chop the potatoes into uniform chunks, about 1 to 1.5 inches. This ensures even cooking and crispy edges.

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes

Parboiling is a key step in achieving crispy roast potatoes.

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil.
2. Cook the Potatoes: Add the potato chunks to the boiling water and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are just starting to become tender but still firm. You want them slightly undercooked.
3. Drain and Rough Up: Drain the potatoes in a colander. While they are still hot, gently shake the colander to roughen up the edges of the potatoes. This rough surface helps create extra crispy edges during cooking.

Step 3: Season and Oil the Potatoes

1. Coat with Oil: In a large bowl, combine the parboiled potatoes with olive oil. Make sure all the potatoes are evenly coated.
2. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and herbs (if using) over the potatoes. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring every piece is seasoned.

Step 4: Air Fry the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
2. Arrange the Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each piece for optimal air circulation.
3. Cooking Time: Air fry the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should turn a beautiful golden brown and become crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauces or as a side dish to your main meal.

Tips for the Best Crispy Roast Potatoes

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For maximum crispiness, cook in batches if necessary.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings, such as paprika, cumin, or fresh herbs.
• Use a High-Starch Potato: Starchy potatoes like Russets will yield the best texture.

Enjoy your perfectly crispy air fryer roast potatoes—a simple yet delicious addition to any meal!