Air Fryer Green Bean Fries Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Yields: 8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 lb. fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• 2 cups seasoned fine dry bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Cooking spray
• Lemon wedges for serving

Special Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 teaspoons mustard
• 1 teaspoon minced sweet or dill pickle
• 1 teaspoon steak seasoning
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions

1. Combine the green beans and water in a saucepan, cover, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 4 minutes, until the beans are bright green and crisp-tender.
2. Drain the beans and transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375F (190C).
4. In one bowl, add the flour. In another, whisk together the egg and milk. In a third bowl, combine the bread crumbs, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
5. Drain the beans and gently pat them dry with paper towels. Toss the beans in the flour to coat, shaking off any excess.
6. Dip the floured beans into the egg mixture, then into the bread crumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Shake off any excess crumbs.
7. Working in batches, arrange the coated beans in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly coat them with cooking spray.
8. Cook the beans for about 4 minutes, turning them halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. If desired, keep them warm in a 250F (95C) oven.
9. Meanwhile, make the special sauce: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, minced pickle, steak seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
10. Serve the crispy green bean fries with the special sauce and lemon wedges on the side.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 303
• Fat: 13g (17% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (12% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 30mg (10% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 525mg (23% Daily Value)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (14% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (13% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 8g (16% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 11mg (12% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 97mg (7% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (16% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 266mg (6% Daily Value)

Note: Nutrition facts are based on the full amount of special sauce. Actual consumption may vary.

History and Origins of Green Bean Fries

Green beans, also known as string beans or snap beans, have been cultivated for thousands of years, with origins tracing back to Central and South America. The concept of transforming fresh vegetables into fried snacks emerged in American kitchens during the late 20th century, inspired by the popularity of French fries and tempura-style vegetables. Air fryer green bean fries are a modern adaptation, blending traditional breading techniques with healthier cooking methods. This dish reflects a growing culinary trend where classic comfort foods are reinvented using contemporary appliances like air fryers, making them crispier with less oil.

Regional Variations

While green bean fries are popular across the United States, regional variations exist. In the Southern U.S., they are often coated in cornmeal and seasoned with paprika and cayenne, giving a spicy, crunchy texture. In Northern states, the fries are more likely to be breaded with panko crumbs and served with tangy dipping sauces like aioli or honey mustard. The choice of herbs and spices also varies by regionsome prefer a garlic and Parmesan combination, while others opt for smoked paprika or chili powder for an added kick. Air fryer technology has standardized preparation, but local flavor preferences still influence seasoning and sauces.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional French fries made from potatoes, green bean fries are lighter, less starchy, and packed with vitamins. They differ from tempura vegetables, which are usually battered in a wet mixture, as green bean fries are typically breaded in a dry coating for a crisp exterior. Compared to roasted green beans, air fryer fries offer a crunchier texture and a more indulgent experience without deep-frying. The addition of a seasoned bread crumb coating sets them apart, providing a snack-like appeal that can rival classic fried appetizers.

Typical Serving Occasions

Green bean fries are commonly served as appetizers, side dishes, or party snacks. They are popular in casual dining restaurants, gastropubs, and at family gatherings, often accompanied by dipping sauces like aioli, ranch, or a tangy special sauce as in this recipe. Their portability makes them a favorite finger food at game nights and potlucks, while their presentation on platters with lemon wedges adds a fresh, elegant touch for more formal meals.

Interesting Facts

• Green bean fries provide a healthier alternative to potato fries, offering more fiber and fewer calories per serving.
• The air fryer, which gained popularity in the 2010s, allows for a crisp texture without submerging food in oil, making dishes like these more diet-friendly.
• Adding spices like chili powder or cayenne pepper to the breading enhances flavor while requiring minimal fat, showcasing the versatility of green beans.
• In some culinary competitions, chefs experiment with colored or heirloom green beans for visually striking fries, highlighting the ingredients natural appeal.
• Green bean fries have become a trendy menu item in vegan and vegetarian eateries, where they are paired with plant-based dips to create satisfying snacks.

FAQ about Air Fryer Green Bean Fries Recipe