For many home cooks, preparing chips from scratch can be a time-consuming process involving peeling, cutting, soaking, and multiple cooking stages. When convenience is key, frozen chips offer a practical alternative, but the cooking method can dramatically impact the final result. In a hands-on comparison, I tested Aldi's Homestyle Straight Cut Chips—voted superior to market leader McCain—using both an air fryer and a conventional oven to determine which appliance produces the crispiest, fluffiest, and most delicious chips.
The Testing Methodology
To ensure a fair comparison, equal quantities of Aldi's Homestyle Straight Cut Chips were cooked simultaneously in both appliances. Each batch was turned over and shaken halfway through the cooking process to promote even browning. The goal was to evaluate not only taste and texture but also cooking time, ease of preparation, and overall consistency.
Oven-Baked Chips: A Traditional Approach
Cooking time: 22 minutes
Rating: 7 out of 10
Following the packet instructions precisely, I preheated the oven to 200°C Fan and arranged the chips in a single layer on a baking tray. The recommended cooking time was 18 to 20 minutes, but after checking at the 18-minute mark, I extended it by an additional four minutes to achieve a crispier finish. Despite turning the chips halfway through, they cooked unevenly, with some pieces becoming crunchier and more golden than others. The result was a lightly crisped exterior with a satisfyingly fluffy centre—a standard, no-fuss method that requires no specialist equipment or advanced culinary skills.
Air Fryer Chips: Modern Convenience
Cooking time: 18 minutes
Rating: 10 out of 10
The packet instructions provided no specific guidance for air fryer cooking, merely stating that the chips are "fantastic" when prepared this way. Skipping preheating altogether, I placed the chips directly into the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 165°C. After nine minutes, I tossed the chips and cooked them for an additional nine minutes. The chips emerged uniformly cooked and absolutely perfect—considerably crispier than their oven-baked counterparts while maintaining a light, fluffy interior reminiscent of a jacket potato. This method proved not only faster but also yielded the finest outcome, with minimal cleanup required afterwards.
Key Findings and Recommendations
The air fryer unequivocally outperformed the oven in this taste test. It produced chips that were crispier, fluffier, and more evenly cooked in less time. While the oven method delivered acceptable results, it lacked the consistency and superior texture achieved with the air fryer. For those seeking the ultimate frozen chip experience, the air fryer is the clear winner, offering speed, efficiency, and exceptional quality without the need for preheating or specialised techniques.
