Air fryer is the secret for best fries

Ready for fast food-style french fries in the comfort of your own home, no deep-frying required? Yeah, you are. Thanks to the air fryer, it’s never been easier to turn a humble spud into crispy-onthe-outside, creamy-on-the-inside fries — and you only need 15 minutes and one teaspoon of oil. Here’s how it’s done.

The key to evenly browned and crispy fries is spreading them in a single layer in your air fryer basket. It’s no big deal if they’re touching, but avoid stacking them, which will prevent the hot air in the fryer from evenly crisping all the edges. If you want to make more fries than what will fit in a single layer, transfer the first batch to a sheet tray and keep them warm in a 200 degree oven. Repeat with as many batches as you’d like.

When it comes to seasonings, you can keep it simple with salt and pepper or go bold: Paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano and cayenne are all great options.

But don’t stop there! Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve the cooked fries. Greek-inspired: Toss with grated garlic and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Cacio e pepe: Shower with grated Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper. All the dips: Serve with ketchup, ranch, BBQ sauce and garlicky tzatziki. Extra cheesy: Top with shredded cheese and broil until melted.

Air fryer french fries

Makes: 2 servings

1 large russet potato (about 8 ounces) 1 teaspoon canola or vegetable oil

½ teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Freshly ground black pepper

Cooking spray

1. Heat an air fryer to 375 degrees. Meanwhile, wash 1 large russet potato and dry well. Peel if desired. Cut lengthwise into ¼-inch-thick planks. Stack a few planks and cut lengthwise again into ¼-inch-thick matchsticks and repeat as needed.

2. Transfer the fries to a large bowl. Add 1 teaspoon canola oil, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, season with black pepper and toss to combine.

3. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place a single layer of fries in the basket (they can be touching but should not be stacked). Air fry for 7 minutes. Use tongs to flip the fries. Air fry until golden brown and crispy, about 7 minutes more.

4. Remove from the basket. Repeat air frying any remaining fries as needed and serve immediately.

DREAMSTIME For evenly browned and crispy fries, spread them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.