Introduction
When it comes to snacks, few things hit the spot quite like a crispy, flavorful bite that packs both a punch and a zesty twist. If you're a fan of avocados—and who isn't?—then you're in for a real treat with this easy-to-make recipe for Chilli Lime Avocado Fries. Not only do these fries make for a delicious snack, but they're also perfect for anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried foods. Thanks to the magic of air frying, you can enjoy all the crispiness with a fraction of the oil. Let's dive into this flavourful adventure!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 lime (zested and juiced)
- 1 teaspoon chilli powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup plain flour (or gluten-free alternative)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or a gluten-free option)
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil for the air fryer
Preparing the Avocado
The first step is to prep the avocados. Choose avocados that are ripe but still firm, as overripe avocados may become too mushy. Slice the avocados in half, remove the stone, peel, and then slice each half into 3 or 4 lengths, resulting in fry-like pieces.
Creating the Coating
In a shallow dish, combine the flour with a bit of salt and pepper. In another dish, beat the eggs until well mixed. Finally, prepare the panko breadcrumbs by mixing them with the lime zest, chilli powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and a bit more salt and pepper. Ensure everything is well-integrated for a consistent coating.
Breading the Fries
Now it's time to bread the avocado slices. Begin by dredging each piece of avocado in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off excess flour and then dip the slices into the beaten egg. Let any excess egg drip off before rolling the avocado slices in the seasoned panko mixture. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto each piece to ensure they stick well.
Air Frying Process
Prepare your air fryer by preheating it to 200°C (400°F). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or coat it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the avocado fries in a single layer without overcrowding the basket—this helps them crisp up better.
Cooking the Fries
Set the air fryer to cook for about 8-10 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through their cooking time to ensure they fry evenly. The avocado fries are done when they're golden brown and crispy outside but still have that creamy avocado texture inside.
Serving Suggestions
Your Chilli Lime Avocado Fries are now ready to enjoy! Serve them with a variety of dips—a fresh salsa, a cooling lime-infused sour cream, or even a spicy chilli mayo can be excellent options. These fries also complement light meals such as grilled chicken or fish, adding that extra flair.
Nutritional Information and Tips
Avocados are loaded with healthy fats, fibre, and vitamins, and using an air fryer means you cut down on oil significantly, making this snack a healthy choice. For those with dietary restrictions, ensure to use gluten-free substitutes as needed, and consider using egg replacements if vegan.
Conclusion
This Chilli Lime Avocado Fries recipe is a testament to how easily one can transform simple ingredients into a gourmet-level snack with minimal effort. It's perfect whether you're entertaining guests or just treating yourself. Try them out and watch them become a staple in your snack rotation!