Name: Crispy Air Fryer French Fries – Healthy Recipe
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 4 medium potatoes (about 500g / 1.1 lb); to taste salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps

Cut the potatoes into thin sticks (french fry shape).

Soak the sticks in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and dry completely with a kitchen towel.

Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F).

Toss the potato sticks with olive oil and salt until evenly coated.

Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 20–25 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.

Recipe story

The potato, native to the Andes, was introduced to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish explorers. In Belgium, where french fries are said to have been invented in the 17th century, they were cut thin and fried in beef tallow. The recipe became popular in France and then worldwide. Today, the air fryer offers a healthier version while maintaining the crispy texture.

Sea salt

Sea salt, extracted from ocean waters by evaporation, was one of the most precious goods of antiquity, used both as food and as currency. In ancient Rome, soldiers were paid with salt, which is the origin of the word 'salary'. Salt roads connected entire civilizations, and in the Middle Ages, salt was so valuable it was called 'white gold'.

Olive oil

Originating in the Mediterranean basin, olive oil was already produced in ancient Crete 5,000 years ago. In ancient Greece, it was considered a gift from Athena and used in lamps, cosmetics, and religious ceremonies. The Romans spread it throughout the empire, and in the Middle Ages, monasteries preserved the tradition of its production.

Potato

Although today it seems indispensable on the table, the potato was long viewed with suspicion in Europe. Arriving from the Andes in the 16th century, it was considered a diabolical plant, even poisonous, due to its toxic leaves and fruits. It wasn't until the 18th century, thanks to promoters like Antoine-Augustin Parmentier, that the potato became a staple food, saving Europe from famine.