Masala Fries Air Fryer Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it combines the nostalgic comfort of fries with a vibrant twist of Indian spices, making it both comforting and exciting. Plus, using an air fryer means I get that perfect crispy texture without all the guilt, so it’s basically a game-changer for my fry cravings!

I adore revamping iconic recipes, and my Masala Fries are a colorful take on the classic fry. I use russet potatoes and infuse them with spices that pack a punch—earthy garam masala, bright turmeric, and toasty cumin.

Instead of deep frying, I air fry, which keeps the fries from being unhealthy and overly greasy while allowing for a nice, crisp fry and the maximum potato flavor.

Ingredients

– Potatoes, russet: Abundant in carbs and fiber, which are necessary for energy.

Aromatic spice blend; adds warmth and depth to dishes; garam masala.

– Anti-inflammatory properties; provides vibrant color: Turmeric powder.

Cayenne Pepper: Imparts heat and spice; increases metabolism.

– Cilantro: A fresh herb; abundant in vitamins A, C, and K.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Remove the skin from the russet potatoes and slice them into evenly shaped fries that are approximately 1/4 inch thick.

2. Wash the sliced potatoes with cool water to eliminate the a lot of excess starch that’s bound to the potato’s surface, then dry the slabs thoroughly with a kitchen towel before proceeding to the next step.

3. In a substantial mixing bowl, vegetable oil, salt, and garam masala are combined with turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.

4. In the bowl, combine the dried potato fries and the spice mixture. Toss together until the fries are evenly coated with the spices.

5. To prepare an air fryer for use, set the temperature to 400°F (200°C).

6. Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer, avoiding crowding them together. You may need to prepare two or more batches to cook them all through.

7. The fries are cooked in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes. The basket is shaken halfway through the cooking cycle to ensure even crispiness.

8. Ensure that the fries are cooked through and make any necessary adjustments to the cooking time. This may be required if the fries vary in thickness or if you prefer a level of crispiness that falls outside the range of what might normally be expected for fries that are fully cooked.

9. When the fries are done cooking, take the air fryer basket out of the air fryer and transfer the fries to a serving plate.

10. Top the fries with freshly chopped cilantro and serve right away, with lemon wedges on the side, if you like.

Equipment Needed

1. Vegetable peeler
2. Sharp knife
3. Cutting board
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Measuring spoons
6. Kitchen towel
7. Air fryer
8. Serving plate

FAQ

• Can I use a different type of potato?You can use other varieties, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but russet potatoes generally yield the best texture for fries.
• How long should I air fry the potatoes?The potatoes should be air-fried at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, with a shaking half to ensure the cooking is even.
• Is it necessary to soak the potatoes before air frying?If you’re in a hurry, you can skip soaking the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes, and still achieve a crisp texture. But don’t skip this crucial step if you have the time.
• Can I adjust the spice levels?Certainly! You can change the amount of cayenne pepper to match your desired level of spiciness.
• How do I ensure the fries are crispy?After washing the potatoes, dry them thoroughly, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, and toss the fries with oil before cooking.
• What other garnishes can I use?You can use chopped green onions, a sprinkle of chaat masala, or grated cheese to garnish and give extra flavor, besides cilantro.
• Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?Certainly! You can bake the fries in a preheated oven that’s set to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius) for roughly 25-30 minutes. Be sure to flip them midway for even cooking.

Substitutions and Variations

Russet potatoes can be replaced with sweet potatoes if a different flavor and texture is desired.
Olive oil can be substituted for vegetable oil, providing a slightly different taste with a hint of fruitiness.
If you prefer that flavor profile, you can substitute curry powder for garam masala.
Saffron can be used in place of turmeric powder, and while it provides a different taste and color, it is far more costly than turmeric.
Smoked paprika can replace cayenne pepper when a dish calls for it but you want milder heat and a touch of smoky flavor.

Pro Tips

1. Soak the Potatoes After cutting the potatoes into fries, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. This helps remove excess starch, which can lead to crispier fries. Make sure to dry them thoroughly before seasoning.

2. Uniform Thickness Ensuring the fries are cut to a consistent thickness (about 1/4 inch) is crucial for even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve uniformity.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer Although not always necessary, preheating the air fryer for a few minutes before cooking can help achieve a crispier texture on the fries.

4. Avoid Overcrowding Cook the fries in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding them in the air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate freely around each fry, resulting in more even cooking and better crispiness.

5. Toss Midway Through Cooking Shaking the basket halfway through the cooking process helps ensure that all sides of the fries are exposed to heat, leading to a more uniform crispiness.