Air Fryer Crispy Polenta Fries
Follow these steps to make perfectly crispy polenta fries using your air fryer. This method delivers a crunchy exterior without deep frying.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 15 min
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 min
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup instant polenta
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Bring the water and salt to a boil in a medium saucepan.
- Slowly whisk in the instant polenta. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, if using.
- Pour the hot polenta into a loaf pan (approximately 8×4 inches) lined with plastic wrap or parchment paper, smoothing the top. Let it cool completely at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until firm.
- Once firm, remove the polenta block from the pan. Cut it into fry shapes, about 1/2 inch thick.
- In a bowl, toss the polenta fries with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, and pepper until lightly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C).
- Place the seasoned polenta fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil for extra crispness, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the polenta is completely chilled before slicing.
- If you do not have instant polenta, use the traditional type and follow package directions, allowing for longer cooling time.
- Serve these fries with marinara sauce or a spicy aioli.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 7
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 6
- Cholesterol: 5
Find it online: https://delishdiarist.com/air-fryer-crispy-polenta-fries/