Pin it Crispy spiral potatoes on skewers, seasoned to perfection and air-fried for a healthier, fun-to-eat snack or side dish. These tornado potatoes are a delightful twist on fries, with eye-catching spirals and irresistible flavors.
My first attempt at making air-fryer tornado potatoes was a hit at our family movie night. Watching everyone marvel at the spirals and reach for seconds made it easily one of our new favorites.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Optional Toppings: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (omit for vegan), 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Skewer the potatoes:
- Insert a long wooden or metal skewer lengthwise through the center of each potato.
- Slice into spirals:
- Holding the skewer, use a sharp knife to cut the potato in a spiral motion, rotating the potato as you slice from one end to the other. Gently stretch the potato along the skewer to create even spacing between the spirals.
- Prepare seasoning:
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Season potatoes:
- Brush or rub the seasoning mixture evenly over each spiraled potato, ensuring it gets between the layers.
- Preheat air fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange and cook:
- Place the skewered potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch.
- Air-fry:
- Air-fry for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Add toppings:
- Optional: Sprinkle with Parmesan, fresh parsley, and chili flakes before serving.
Pin it These tornado potatoes have turned into a family tradition whenever we host backyard gatherings. Kids especially love pulling apart the spirals and dipping them in their favorite sauces.
Required Tools
You'll need an air fryer, long wooden or metal skewers, a sharp knife, a small bowl, and a pastry brush if you want a more even coating.
Allergen Information
Contains milk if using Parmesan cheese. Gluten-free; always check all seasonings and toppings for possible allergens. Use dairy-free cheese for a fully vegan version.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 180, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 28 g, Protein: 3 g
Pin it Serve these crunchy tornado potatoes hot for the best taste and texture. They are sure to be a conversation piece at any table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you create the tornado spiral effect?
Carefully slice each potato in a spiral motion around the inserted skewer, stretching gently to space the spirals evenly.
- → Can I use sweet potatoes for this dish?
Yes, sweet potatoes offer a delicious alternative, providing a slightly different texture and flavor.
- → What tips help achieve extra crispiness?
Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before air-frying, then pat dry thoroughly for a crispier result.
- → Are there vegan or gluten-free options?
This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by omitting Parmesan cheese or using a dairy-free alternative.
- → What are the best dips to serve alongside?
Popular dips include aioli, ketchup, or sour cream for added flavor and variety.
- → How should the potatoes be seasoned?
A mixture of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper is brushed over each spiral for deep flavor.