Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Recipe

Previous Next

Cook Time: 60 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
• 1 tablespoon peanut oil
• teaspoon coarse sea salt

Directions:

Step 1: Gather all ingredients and preheat your air fryer to 400F (200C).

Step 2: Brush the potatoes with peanut oil, ensuring they are well-coated.

Step 3: Sprinkle the potatoes with sea salt to taste.

Step 4: Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded.

Step 5: Cook the potatoes for about 1 hour, or until they are very tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Once done, remove the potatoes from the air fryer, serve, and enjoy!

Recipe Tip: There is no need to prick the potatoes with a fork before cooking, and you don't need to turn them during cooking.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 344
• Fat: 7g (9% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 1g (6% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 462mg (20% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 65g (23% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 8g (29% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 8g (15% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 73mg (81% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 44mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 8mg (45% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1557mg (33% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Recipe Overview: A baked potato in the air fryer comes out beautifully crusty on the outside and fluffy on the inside. It's what a great baked spud should be, and so easy!

History of the Baked Potato

The baked potato is an iconic dish with a long history. Its roots can be traced back to the indigenous people of the Americas, who cultivated potatoes for thousands of years before European explorers introduced them to the rest of the world. The modern baked potato, with its crispy skin and fluffy interior, has evolved over centuries. It became a staple in European and American diets after the potato was introduced to Europe in the 16th century. In the United States, baked potatoes became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries, often served in restaurants or at home as a comforting side dish. Today, the baked potato is enjoyed globally and is often considered a quintessential part of the American cuisine.

Regional Variations of Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are versatile and can be found in many different variations depending on the region. In the United States, they are typically served with toppings like butter, sour cream, cheese, and bacon bits. In the UK, they are often called "jacket potatoes" and can be filled with a variety of fillings, such as baked beans, cheese, or even tuna salad. In South America, particularly in Peru, the potato is an integral part of the diet, often served alongside traditional dishes. While the basic idea of a baked potato remains the same, each region adds its own twist to the dish, making it unique to the local culture and preferences.

How Does This Recipe Differ from Similar Dishes?

What sets the air fryer baked potato apart from other baked potato methods, like the conventional oven-baked potato, is the cooking process. The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the potato quickly, creating a crispy outer layer without the need for oil or a long cooking time. This method is faster and more energy-efficient than using an oven. Traditional oven-baked potatoes can take up to an hour or more, whereas air fryer baked potatoes are ready in around 40 to 60 minutes, depending on size and air fryer model. Additionally, the air fryer method ensures that the potato retains a fluffy interior while achieving a perfectly crispy skin, a key feature that sets it apart from the typical microwave or boiled potato.

Where Are Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Usually Served?

Air fryer baked potatoes, much like their oven-baked counterparts, are a popular side dish in many restaurants, particularly in American diners and steakhouses. They are often served alongside grilled meats, such as steak, chicken, or fish. At home, they can be a quick and easy dinner option or a comforting side to accompany a larger meal. These potatoes are also great for serving at barbecues or casual family dinners, where toppings like cheese, sour cream, chives, or chili can be added to suit personal tastes. The simplicity and versatility of air fryer baked potatoes make them a favorite for any occasion.

Interesting Facts About Baked Potatoes

• The potato was first domesticated in the Andean region of South America around 7,000 to 10,000 years ago.
• More than 200 varieties of potatoes are grown around the world, and they come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, including purple, red, and yellow.
• The worlds largest potato was grown in the UK and weighed 10.2 kilograms (22.5 pounds).
• In some cultures, potatoes are considered a symbol of prosperity. In Ireland, for example, the potato was a staple food during times of famine, and its cultivation helped sustain the population during difficult periods.
• The air fryer was first introduced to the market in the early 2000s, and it quickly gained popularity due to its ability to cook foods with significantly less oil, making dishes like baked potatoes healthier alternatives to deep-frying.

FAQ about Air Fryer Baked Potatoes Recipe

Comments