Forget the frozen bag, the secret to perfect homemade chips is simpler than you think. A top chef's air fryer recipe, which has captivated hundreds of thousands online, promises restaurant-quality fries in just 20 minutes.
The Viral TikTok Sensation
Chef and food author Sam Stern has shared what he calls a 'foolproof' method for creating the ultimate air fryer chips. The tutorial forms part of his popular 'air fryer basics' series on TikTok, where it has amassed an impressive 635.2 thousand views. Enthusiastic home cooks have flooded the comments with praise, with one declaring the results 'top quality' and another noting they look "great and tasty".
After extensive testing, Stern insists this particular method is the definitive winner. "We all want those crispy, delicious fries without the hassle of deep-fat frying. Here they are!" he said. "Full of flavour, soft in the middle and crisp on the outside."
The Secret to Ultimate Crispiness
The recipe's key to a super-crispy exterior lies in one unexpected pantry staple: bicarbonate of soda. Adding half a teaspoon to the boiling water helps to draw excess moisture from the potato batons, creating the perfect foundation for a golden, crunchy finish.
Stern elevates the classic chip with a chef's blend of seasonings. Before air frying, the parboiled potatoes are tossed in a mixture of olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt, transforming them into a flavour-packed side dish.
Chef Sam Stern's Air Fryer Chip Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 or 4 medium/large Maris Piper potatoes
- ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- Spray of vegetable oil
Method:
- Slice the potatoes into 1cm batons. For stability, slice a small piece off the bottom to create a flat surface.
- Place in a large pan of cold, salted water with the bicarb. Bring to the boil and cook for five minutes or until just tender.
- Drain and let the potatoes dry out on a baking tray until cool.
- Mix the oil, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Drizzle over the cooled potatoes and mix gently.
- Spray the air fryer basket with oil and preheat to 200°C (392°F).
- Cook the fries in a single layer for 10-15 minutes until crisp and golden. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Season with extra salt if desired and serve immediately.
This simple technique proves that ditching pre-packaged options for fresh, homemade chips is both quick and immensely rewarding, offering a superior taste and texture that's hard to beat.
