Slap chips, fries, or tjips… whatever you prefer calling them, they’ve become a favourite in family meals, restaurant dishes, and takeaways. There’s something deeply comforting about them and there’s really no other food that can compare. While there are many different ways to cook them, air fryer chips have become increasingly popular in South Africa due to minimal oil requirements and lower electricity costs. However, many struggle to get them to taste as good as oven-made or deep-fried versions. Fortunately, it’s not that hard to replicate these chips in the air fryer, so pay close attention to our recipe and the tips and tricks we share to get them beautifully golden brown!
First of all, the type of potatoes you use really does make a difference. And if you thought there was only one type of potato in existence, you’re forgiven – many people make this mistake. So, for chips that are crisp on the outside and deliciously soft on the inside, your best bet is to use russet potatoes. Russets are very floury with a high starch content and low moisture content. The dryer the potato, the better! Of course, you can use one of the most common potatoes in South Africa – the Sifra, but we can’t promise your air fried chips will be as good.
Whether you’re making your own version of the famous, Durban-based, Johnny’s Rotis chip and cheese rotis, are creating bacon, garlic, and cheese loaded fries, or are making a simple side for your main meal, here’s the low-down on how to cook chips in an air fryer.
THE BENNETT READ AIR FRYER CHIPS RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 Russet Potatoes
- 2 Tbsp. Olive Oil
- 1 Tsp. Garlic Powder
- ½ Tsp. Seasoned Salt (or to taste)
How Long to Cook Chips in Air Fryer?
- Prep time: 35 minutes
- Total cooking time: 20 minutes (ensure you take out your air fryer chips and toss them around after the first 10 minutes of cooking)
Method
Pay close attention to steps 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 9! Step 1. Wash and peel your potatoes. Step 2. Slice them into horizontal strips. Step 3. Place the potato chips into a large bowl filled with cold water. Step 4. Soak the chips in this for around 30 minutes. Step 5. Once you have done this, you need to drain them well and pat your chips dry with a thick kitchen towel. Step 6. Preheat your Bennett Read air fryer to 190°C for 5 minutes. Step 7. Place your chips back into the large, emptied bowl and cover them with oil, garlic powder, and salt to taste. Toss them around to ensure the oil evenly coats them. Step 8. Place your chips in the fry basket and ensure they are evenly spread out for optimal heat distribution. Cook for 10 minutes at 190°C. Step 9. Pull out the basket to check on them and give them a good shake before putting them back to cook in your air fryer for another 6-10 minutes (or until crisp). Step 10. Add extra salt to your liking. *
Now that you’ve mastered how to make chips in an air fryer, let’s take a look at some fresh and interesting sauces and seasonings for those who enjoy being a little bit ‘extra’ in the kitchen.
Sauces, Dips, and Seasoning Ideas for Potato Chips in Air Fryer:
Photo by Abbie Tanner on Unsplash
Besides popular condiments like vinegar, tomato sauce (or tomato and mayo mix), or store-bought mustard, there are actually a lot of different options to spice up traditional chips. Here are a few ideas for inspiration.
- Rosemary and garlic seasoning
- Chutney sauce
- Parmesan sprinkles
- Honey-mustard sauce
- Blue cheese sauce
- Guacamole sauce
- Mushroom sauce (you can make beef and mushroom-sauce loaded fries)
- Creamy horseradish sauce
- Gravy and mash dip
- Basil and oregano seasoning
- Butter and garlic seasoning
- Coriander lime sauce
- Sour cream and spring onion (or chives) sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Paprika spice
- Tzatziki sauce
- Spicy mojo sauce (substitute Jalapenos with your chilli of choice)
- Sticky barbeque sauce
- Cinnamon and brown sugar sweet chips
If you have any other suggestions on how to fry chips in an air fryer, please get in touch with us on Facebook and share your method or tricks. We’d love to hear from you!
