Roasted Carrot and Parsnip Fries

Roasted Carrot and Parsnip Fries – Perfect for Air Frying

In the world of air frying, the humble carrot and parsnip fries stand out as a delightful, healthy, and simple treat. These naturally sweet vegetables are transformed into crispy fries packed with flavour, offering a perfect side dish or snack that's both nourishing and satisfying. Suitable for any occasion, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings without the fuss. Let's dive into the world of roasted carrot and parsnip fries!

Fresh carrots and parsnips ready for preparation

Ingredients

  • 4 medium carrots
  • 4 medium parsnips
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredients for carrot and parsnip fries

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Begin by washing and peeling the carrots and parsnips. Trim the ends and cut them into evenly sized strips, resembling traditional fries. Ensuring uniform sizes will help them cook evenly.
  2. Season: In a large mixing bowl, toss the carrot and parsnip strips with olive oil, ensuring each piece is nicely coated. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, and mix well to combine all the flavours.
  3. Preheat the air fryer: Before placing the strips in the air fryer, preheat it to 200°C (about 392°F) for a few minutes to allow even cooking.
  4. Cook: Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry them at 200°C for about 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure all sides are crispy.
  5. Serve: Once cooked to a golden hue and desired crispiness, remove the fries from the air fryer. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top and serve immediately!
Roasted carrot and parsnip fries ready to serve

Tips for Perfect Fries

  • The Cut: The key to crispy fries is ensuring that your carrot and parsnip pieces are cut into uniform sizes. This helps them cook evenly and avoid undercooked, soggy strips.
  • Optimal Airflow: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket as it can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Variety of Flavours: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different seasonings! Consider adding cumin for a smoky essence or rosemary for a bit of herbal warmth.

Why Air Fry?

Air frying is an excellent technique that uses hot air circulation to create crispy textures similar to traditional frying. It's a lower-fat method that reduces calorie intake without sacrificing taste—making it a favourite among health-conscious cooks. It's also faster, more energy-efficient, and doesn’t swamp your kitchen with oily fumes!

Nutritional Benefits

Carrots and parsnips are packed with essential vitamins and nutrients. Carrots are known for their high beta-carotene content, which is beneficial for eyesight, while parsnips offer a good amount of fibre, folate, and vitamin C. This combination makes for a snack that’s both tasty and nutritionally rewarding.

Conclusion

With this simple recipe, turning humble root vegetables into a gourmet experience is a matter of minutes. Roasted carrot and parsnip fries are not only a delightful accompaniment to many dishes but are also a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet, enjoyed by adults and young ones alike. Give this recipe a go and savour the balance of natural sweetness, slight spiciness, and delightful crunch!