Short Answer:

Yes, soaking potatoes before air frying is recommended. Soaking removes excess starch from the surface, which helps prevent the potatoes from sticking together and promotes a crispier exterior.

After soaking, it’s important to pat the potatoes dry to remove moisture. This step ensures even cooking, a golden-brown crust, and a tender interior, resulting in perfectly crisp and delicious air-fried potatoes.

Detailed Explanation:

Soaking Potatoes Before Air Frying

Soaking potatoes is a simple step that improves texture and prevents sticking. Raw potatoes contain starch, which can make them clump together and create a gummy surface when cooked. Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for 20–30 minutes helps remove some of this surface starch. This process reduces the chance of the potatoes sticking to each other or the air fryer basket during cooking.

Effect on Crispiness
Removing excess starch also enhances crispiness. The surface of the potatoes dries more effectively during air frying, allowing the oil and hot air to create a golden, crunchy exterior. Without soaking, the starch can trap moisture, leading to soggy or unevenly cooked potatoes. Soaking ensures that the outside crisps properly while the inside remains soft and fluffy.

Drying After Soaking
After soaking, it’s crucial to thoroughly pat the potatoes dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Excess water can create steam in the air fryer, which reduces crispiness and prolongs cooking time. Drying the potatoes ensures that the hot air cooks them evenly and helps achieve a consistent golden-brown finish.

Seasoning and Oil
Once dried, coat the potatoes lightly with oil to further improve crisping. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, or herbs as desired. Even coating ensures that the potatoes brown evenly and develop a flavorful crust without being greasy. Proper preparation at this stage directly contributes to the final texture and taste.

Cooking Considerations
Arrange the potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket to maximize airflow and prevent overcrowding. Shake or turn the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides. Preheating the air fryer can also help maintain consistent heat and achieve optimal results.

Conclusion

Soaking potatoes before air frying removes excess starch, prevents sticking, and promotes a crispy exterior. Drying them thoroughly afterward ensures even cooking and a tender interior. Combined with light oil and proper seasoning, this method produces golden, crunchy, and flavorful air-fried potatoes every time, making soaking an important step for perfect results.