Summer is the perfect time for light, crispy snacks and quick side dishes that don’t heat up your kitchen. The Ninja Air Fryer makes it easy to whip up fresh, homemade fries that are healthier and just as delicious as deep-fried versions.
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Follow this simple guide to create perfectly crispy fries in your Ninja Air Fryer, ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or a quick snack on a hot day.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Air Fryer
- ✔ Weight: 9.7 lbs
- ✔ Dimensions: 13.6 x 11.1 x 13.2 inches
- ✔ Material: Plastic and metal
Preparing Your Ingredients
Start with fresh potatoes — Russet potatoes work best for crispy fries. You’ll need about 4 pounds of potatoes to fill the Ninja Air Fryer’s 5-quart capacity.
- Wash and peel the potatoes (peeling is optional).
- Cut the potatoes into even sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.
- Soak the cut fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch, which helps achieve crispiness.
- Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel.
Seasoning and Prepping the Fries
Once the fries are dry, toss them in a mixing bowl with a tablespoon of oil and your preferred seasonings. Classic options include salt, pepper, garlic powder, or paprika for a smoky flavor.
Mix well to ensure all fries are evenly coated, which promotes uniform crispiness during cooking.
Cooking the Fries in the Ninja Air Fryer
Place the seasoned fries into the nonstick basket of the Ninja Air Fryer, spreading them out in a single layer for even cooking. Do not overcrowd the basket.
Set the Air Fryer to 400°F and cook for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket or toss the fries halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
When done, the fries should be golden and crispy. Use the crisper plate if you want extra crunch on the surface.
Serving and Tips for the Best Summer Fries
Serve the fries hot with your favorite summer dips like aioli, ketchup, or spicy mayo. They’re perfect alongside grilled meats or as a snack on their own.
For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving.
To keep fries warm and crispy for a bit longer, place them in a warm oven or air fry for a couple of minutes before serving.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Air Fryer
The Ninja Air Fryer is a versatile kitchen gadget that simplifies making crispy fries at home. Its 5-quart capacity can handle enough for family or friends, and the 400°F max temp ensures perfect crunch.</p> <p>Follow the steps for a quick, healthier summer snack that everyone will love.</p>
Pros:
- Quick and easy to use
- Produces crispy, delicious fries
- Large capacity for family-sized batches
- Multi-function with roasting and dehydrating
Cons:
- Requires some prep time for soaking and drying
- Might need to shake basket for even cooking
- Limited to certain batch sizes
Best for: Home cooks wanting easy, crispy summer snacks
Not ideal for: People looking for deep-frying or larger batch cooking
Bottom line: A versatile, easy-to-use air fryer perfect for crispy summer fries.
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