As a home cook, you’re always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that deliver on taste and nutrition. When it comes to homemade crisps, the air fryer offers a simple solution for creating a delicious snack with fewer calories and less fat than deep-fried alternatives. 

In this article, we’ll provide you with the perfect recipe for air fryer crisps using just a few simple ingredients. With a preparation and cook time of just 30 minutes, these crisps are the perfect appetiser or after-dinner snack and will have you saying goodbye to store-bought crisps for good.

3 Simple Ingredients

Potatoes

The key ingredient for homemade crisps is starchy potatoes. Russet or Maris Piper potatoes work well as they can withstand higher cooking temperatures without getting mushy.

Oil

While an air fryer requires little to no oil, brushing or spraying the potato slices with a little bit of oil helps make the crisps light and crisp. Opt for an oil with a high smoke point like canola, sunflower or peanut oil. A light coating of about 1 teaspoon of oil for every medium potato should suffice.

Seasonings (Optional)

For extra flavour, you could season the potato slices with your favourite herbs and spices. Some options include:

• Sea salt – Simple but delicious. Adds flavour without overpowering the potato.
• Chilli powder and cumin – For a kick of heat and earthy spice.
• Grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese – Ideal for cheesy crisps.
• Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, chives – For a herby twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crisps in an Air Fryer

Prepare the Ingredients

Wash and peel your potatoes. Slice them into evenly thin chips, approximately 1/4 of an inch thick. Soak the chips in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch and prevent the chips from getting too dark, then pat dry with a towel.

Season the Chips

In a large bowl, toss the chips with 1-2 tablespoons of oil and your choice of seasonings. For a classic salty and savoury flavour use sea salt, or for some extra flavour, you could add herbs like rosemary, thyme or oregano, or spicy seasonings such as chilli powder, paprika or cayenne pepper. Toss thoroughly so all chips are evenly coated.

Air Fry the Chips

Preheat your air fryer to 400 F. Add the chips to the air fryer basket in an even layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Air fry for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket 2-3 times during cooking, until the chips are light golden brown and crisp.

Drain and Season

Once cooked, remove the chips from the air fryer immediately to prevent overcooking. Serve the crisps immediately with your favourite dip like ketchup, ranch dressing, hummus or guacamole. Homemade crisps made in an air fryer are light, crunchy and addictive. Your family and friends will definitely be asking for more!

Serving Suggestions and Unique Flavour Variations

Sweet and Savoury Toppings

Once your crisps have cooled, you can dress them up in a variety of ways. For a sweet treat, top them with cinnamon and sugar, honey, or melted chocolate. For something more savoury, sprinkle them with grated cheese, chopped fresh or sun-dried tomatoes, basil, rosemary, or your favourite spices like paprika, cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Flavour Variations

You can easily customize the flavour of your crisps by adding different seasonings to the oil before frying. Some suggestions include:

• Rosemary and garlic – For an aromatic, herbaceous crisp.
• Chili and lime – To give your crisps a kick of heat and citrus tang.
• Curry powder – For crisps with an Indian-inspired flavour.
• Crushed nori seaweed or wasabi powder – For an Asian twist.

Let the flavours infuse for at least 30 minutes before frying for maximum flavour.

Shape Variations

While thinly sliced potatoes are traditional, you can make crisps from a variety of root vegetables and even fruit. Some options to try:

• Sweet potatoes – For crisps with an orange hue and caramel-like flavour.
• Beets – Will produce pink or red crisps with an earthy, nutty taste
• Parsnips – For crisps with a mild nutty flavour and pale yellow colour.
• Apples – Provide a crisp with subtle sweetness and light golden colour.

With some experimentation, you can create crisps to satisfy both sweet and savoury cravings.

Conclusion

With just a few humble ingredients – potatoes, oil, and seasoning – you can create a snack that rivals anything from the shops. Keep this recipe on hand for snacking emergencies or when you need an easy yet impressive appetiser. Your homemade crisps will be the star of the show.