Roast potatoes are loved for their crispy skins and fluffy centres, but achieving that perfect crunch every time can be trickier than setting the right air fryer controls. A single simple ingredient added before cooking can help create an extra-crispy coating while keeping the insides fluffy, and it is likely already in many kitchens.
One ingredient makes the biggest difference
Food writer Lucy Parissi from Supergolden Bakes said: "There's no need to parboil them first or roast them for upwards of 45 minutes – these air-fried roasties are ready in about 25 minutes!" She added that there are "secrets to getting that perfect crunch in record time" and shared the results of testing various methods.
Lucy explained that roast potatoes need just a handful of ingredients – potatoes, salt, herbs and a type of cooking fat. "The one ingredient that made the biggest difference overall is what you cook the potatoes in," she said. "Olive oil is a good option, but for life-changing great air fryer potatoes, you need to use goose fat, beef dripping or ghee. All three of these have a high smoking point and create the crispiest roast potatoes."
Simple method for everyday or special occasions
Lucy usually keeps things simple, using olive oil or sunflower oil, and sometimes uses an oil spray for a lighter, healthier version without compromising crispiness too much. For festive dinners or when she wants to impress guests, she opts for richer fats.
To make crispy air fryer potatoes for four people, peel eight medium potatoes and cut them into fairly chunky quarters. Toss them in a bowl with one and a half tablespoons of olive oil, then season with one teaspoon of coarse sea salt flakes and two teaspoons of Italian seasonings or other dried herbs.
Cooking steps and serving
Preheat the air fryer to 200°C, though the temperature can be lowered by about 10°C for smaller potatoes to prevent them browning too quickly. Add the potatoes in a single layer and cook for 10 minutes, then shake them and cook for a further 10 minutes. Larger pieces may need another five to 10 minutes to become crisp. The roast potatoes are best served immediately alongside a main dish.
