Frozen chips are a staple in many British households, but one common mistake can leave them soggy and limp. Here's how to get perfectly crispy results every time.
The Biggest Mistake When Cooking Frozen Chips
Chef David Nayfield from Che Fico says that frozen chips can match restaurant standards if you avoid overcrowding your oven trays or air fryer baskets. NYC chef George Duran characterizes this as the 'biggest mistake' you can make when cooking fries at home.
To get the ideal crunch, your chips require enough room to crisp up. Placing too many excessively close together will prompt them to steam instead of bake.
Preheat for Perfect Results
David also emphasized the importance of pre-heating your appliance beforehand. Placing chips directly into a cold oven or air fryer is prone to produce soggy or inconsistently cooked chips. A helpful rule is to heat your appliance to approximately 200C prior to cooking the chips to get that flawless golden texture.
Air Fryer vs. Oven
When it comes to the discussion between utilizing an air fryer or a conventional oven, chefs have a definite preference. George Duran suggests that preparing your chips in an air fryer is similar to 'giving them a fast-track to crispy heaven.' This technique is often speedier than conventional oven preparation, meaning you can enjoy those delectable crispy fries faster, while also removing the hazard of burns from managing hot cooking oil.
Extra Flavor with Seasoning
For a bit of extra flavour in your fries, adding a quick seasoning mix can be a real lifesaver - and it's a lot cheaper than buying pre-seasoned chips too. Chef and cookbook author Kelly Jaggers recommends her blend of a teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Mix it well and sprinkle as desired, alongside your salt. Make sure to do this when the fries are piping hot, and they'll be even more delicious.
