Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes
Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. Among the plethora of dishes that can be prepared in this innovative appliance, air fryer breakfast potatoes stand out as a morning favorite. These potatoes offer a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory flavor, making them an ideal side dish or main component of a hearty breakfast.
The appeal of air fryer breakfast potatoes lies in their simplicity and versatility. Potatoes are a staple in many diets around the world due to their nutritional value and the energy they provide. When cooked in an air fryer, they require significantly less oil than traditional frying methods, which not only reduces calorie intake but also minimizes kitchen mess and the risk of splattering oil.
One of the key benefits of using an air fryer is the time efficiency it offers. Breakfast is often a rush hour where every minute counts. The ability to prepare a delicious and nutritious side dish like breakfast potatoes in just 15 minutes is a game-changer for many households. This quick cooking time is achieved through the air fryer’s mechanism of circulating hot air around the food, resulting in even cooking and a desirable crispy exterior.
Moreover, air fryer breakfast potatoes are incredibly adaptable. They can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices to suit individual tastes. Common seasonings include rosemary, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, but the possibilities are endless. You can experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match or tailor them to complement other dishes on your breakfast table.
Another aspect that makes air fryer breakfast potatoes a popular choice is their texture. The high heat and rapid air circulation of the air fryer ensure that the potatoes get a golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and fluffy. This contrast in textures is a delightful experience for the palate and elevates the dish from a simple potato to a mouth-watering treat.
For health-conscious individuals, air fryer breakfast potatoes are a guilt-free indulgence. Potatoes themselves are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Cooking them in an air fryer reduces the need for excess fat without compromising on taste or texture, making them a suitable option for those monitoring their fat intake.
Furthermore, air fryer breakfast potatoes are not just limited to the first meal of the day. They can be enjoyed as a snack, a side dish for lunch or dinner, or even as a base for other recipes. For instance, you can top them with a poached egg, serve them alongside a salad, or use them in a breakfast burrito. Their neutral flavor profile means they can easily be incorporated into various meals throughout the day.
When it comes to preparing air fryer breakfast potatoes, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s important to cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Soaking the potatoes in water before cooking can help remove excess starch, which contributes to achieving the desired crispiness. Additionally, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking process allows the potatoes to brown evenly on all sides.
Cleaning up after making air fryer breakfast potatoes is another area where this method shines. Unlike traditional frying, there’s no need to deal with a greasy stovetop or dispose of used cooking oil. Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher safe, making the post-cooking cleanup a breeze.
In conclusion, air fryer breakfast potatoes are a testament to the convenience and versatility of air fryers. They offer a quick, delicious, and healthier alternative to traditionally fried potatoes, fitting seamlessly into the busy lifestyles of modern-day consumers. With the ability to customize the seasonings and enjoy them at any time of the day, these potatoes are more than just a breakfast item; they’re a new staple for any meal. Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, incorporating air fryer breakfast potatoes into your culinary repertoire is sure to delight your taste buds and simplify your meal prep routine.
Air Fryer Breakfast Potatoes
Ingredients
- 3 cups red potatoes chopped into half inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt divided
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon herbs de provence or rosemary or thyme
- ¼ cup bell pepper finely diced
- ¼ cup onion finely diced
- 2 scallions for garnish if desired
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees if necessary.
- Meanwhile, add potatoes, olive oil, half the salt, and all of the paprika, garlic powder and herbs de provence to a mixing bowl and toss everything together.
- Pour the potatoes in the air fryer basket and shake them so they’re spaced evenly apart. Set the timer for 15 minutes then press start.
- Shake once more when 5 minutes have passed.
- Meanwhile, add the peppers, onions, and remaining salt to the bowl that the potatoes were in. Stir it up so that the leftover potato seasoning and olive oil cover the onions and peppers.
- When there’s 5 minutes left of the potatoes cook time, take the basket out, add the peppers and onions on top and continue cooking until the timer goes off.
- Pour the potatoes into a serving bowl and taste. Season with more salt and pepper if necessary. **Add chopped scallions for garnish if you’d like!**
