Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the air filled with the tantalizing aroma of crispy fries sizzling away in the air fryer. If you’ve been stuck in a rut with takeout, let me introduce you to the game-changer of your snack routine: Air Fryer Pickle-Brined Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce.
These fries aren’t just any ordinary side; they undergo a delightful transformation when brined in tangy dill pickle juice, turning them into a flavorful treat that strikes the perfect balance between crunch and tenderness. Paired with a zesty chipotle mayo that offers a smoky kick, you’ll find yourself reaching for these fries again and again—whether for a cozy night in or as the buzz-worthy dish at your next gathering.
And the best part? They’re easy to whip up using ingredients you likely already have on hand! So, say goodbye to greasy fast food and hello to a delicious homemade indulgence that’s as customizable as your taste buds demand. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Choose Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce?
Extraordinary Flavor: The unique brining process infuses the fries with a tasty dill pickle flavor, making every bite a crunchy delight.
Crispy Perfection: Air frying delivers the ultimate crispy exterior, while the brined interior remains fluffy and soft.
Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, these fries can be on your table in under 30 minutes!
Customizable Spice: Adjust the heat of the dipping sauce to suit your preference, making these fries perfect for everyone.
Great for Sharing: Ideal as a fun snack or side for gatherings, you’ll impress friends and family with this mouthwatering treat!
To explore more unique flavors, consider pairing them with Cranberry Bread Cranberries for a delightful flavor contrast.
Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce Ingredients
For the Fries
• Large Russet Potatoes – These high-starch potatoes create the ideal texture for crispy fries.
• Dill Pickle Juice – Infuses fries with tangy flavor; feel free to substitute with other brines for a twist.
• Dried Dill – Adds to the dill flavor; fresh dill works wonderfully if you have it on hand.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Helps achieve that crispy finish; can be swapped with other neutral oils like canola.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to your taste preferences.
For the Chipotle Mayo
• Egg Yolks – A key ingredient for emulsification; silken tofu is a great vegan alternative.
• Lemon Juice – Adds brightness; vinegar can be used if lemon isn’t available.
• Avocado Oil – Provides creaminess to the mayo; other neutral oils are also fine substitutions.
• Vinegar – Enhances mayo flavor; apple cider vinegar or white vinegar works best.
• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce – Adds spice and smokiness; reduce or omit for a milder mayo.
• Paprika – Introduces warmth; feel free to skip if you prefer a milder sauce.
For Serving
• Flaky Salt – A finishing touch for added crunch and flavor.
• Fresh Dill – Garnish that imparts a fresh taste and colorful appeal.
Whip up these Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce for a delightful snack that everyone will love!
How to Make Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce
- Prep Potatoes: Start by scrubbing and drying the large russet potatoes. Slice them into fries or wedges, keeping them thick for a satisfying crunch.
- Brine: Soak the potato wedges in dill pickle juice for at least 2 hours, or if short on time, let them marinate for 20-30 minutes. This step is crucial for flavor and texture.
- Make Chipotle Mayo: In a mason jar, combine egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, vinegar, and avocado oil. Use an immersion blender to emulsify it all together, then stir in chipotle sauce and paprika once it’s smooth.
- Season Potatoes: Remove the potatoes from the brine (no need to rinse) and pat them dry. Toss the wedges with dried dill, olive oil, salt, pepper, and a splash of pickle juice until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer and fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they achieve a crispy, golden brown exterior.
- Serve: Once perfectly crisp, sprinkle the fries with flaky salt and fresh dill for added flavor and presentation. Serve alongside your homemade chipotle mayo for dipping.
Optional: Enjoy these fries with a sprinkle of fresh chives for an extra burst of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Pickle-Brined Fries with Chipotle Mayo?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these crunchy fries with delightful sides that complement their zesty flavors.
- Classic Cheeseburger: The savory, juicy flavors of a cheeseburger harmonize perfectly with the tangy bite of these fries.
- Crisp Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and creamy contrast, balancing the fries’ spice with bright, tangy notes.
- Grilled Chicken Sandwich: The tender, smoky flavors of a grilled chicken sandwich make for a satisfying meal alongside crispy fries and zesty mayo.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For a spicy twist, pair these fries with crispy buffalo cauliflower bites, creating a delightful flavor explosion that your taste buds will love.
- Beer-Battered Fish Tacos: Light and flaky fish tacos provide a contrast of flavors, complemented by fries and the creaminess of chipotle mayo for dipping.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vibrant greens and citrus dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty fries, making for a well-rounded meal.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: For a fun twist, serve these fries alongside sweet potato wedges coated in cinnamon, adding a sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory mayo.
- Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing sparkling lemonade brings a bright, bubbly vibe, perfectly complementing the crispy fries and savory dipping sauce.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Satisfy your sweet tooth by finishing off the meal with warm chocolate chip cookies, providing a sweet reward after the spicy fries.
- Ice Cream Float: End the dining experience with a delightful ice cream float, a fun, nostalgic treat that contrasts wonderfully with the fries’ crunch and spice.
Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce Variations
Feel free to make these delightful fries your own with some creative twists and substitutions!
- Sweet Potatoes: Replace russets with sweet potatoes for a natural sweetness that complements the savory brine beautifully.
- Different Brines: Experiment with jalapeño brine or garlic dill pickles instead of traditional dill pickle juice for a unique flavor dimension.
- Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the fries for an aromatic uplift that pairs perfectly with the pickle taste.
- Air-Fried Zucchini Fries: Swap potatoes for zucchini. Simply cut into wedges and follow the same brining and seasoning process for a lighter option.
- Spicy Mayo: Boost the chipotle mayo’s heat by adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper, making it perfect for spice lovers.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the fries during the last few minutes of air frying for a cheesy, crispy delight.
- Garlic Aioli: For a different dipping experience, swap the chipotle mayo for a homemade garlic aioli made with roasted garlic and lemon zest.
- Crunchy Coating: For an irresistible texture, toss the potato wedges in panko breadcrumbs before air frying, adding a golden crunch that’s hard to resist!
How to Store and Freeze Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce
Fridge: Store any leftover pickle fries in an airtight container for up to 1 day for best quality. Reheat in the air fryer to regain their crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked pickle fries in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To enjoy previously frozen fries, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.
Chipotle Mayo: The homemade dipping sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again.
Expert Tips for Pickle Fries
- Dry Thoroughly: Ensure your potatoes are completely dried after brining. Moisture can lead to soggy fries instead of crisp perfection.
- Brining Time: For maximum flavor, aim to brine your wedges for several hours or overnight. If you’re in a hurry, even 20-30 minutes can work, but longer is better.
- Monitor Cooking: Keep an eye on the fries in the air fryer. Flipping halfway through promotes even cooking and prevents overcooking.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Taste your chipotle mayo as you blend and tweak the amount of chipotle sauce to perfectly suit your spice preference!
- Batch Cooking: If making multiple servings, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches for optimal crispiness on each fry.
- Storage Tips: Enjoy your pickle fries fresh, but if stored, reheat in the air fryer to keep them crunchy, as microwaving can make them soggy.
Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right potatoes for making fries?
When selecting potatoes, opt for large russet potatoes as they are high in starch and yield the best texture for crispy fries. Look for firm potatoes without any dark spots or blemishes, which indicates freshness.
How should I store leftover pickle fries?
Store leftover pickle fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To reheat, use your air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their delicious crunch.
Can I freeze pickle fries?
Absolutely! To freeze cooked pickle fries, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
What if my chipotle mayo is too runny?
If your chipotle mayo ends up runny, don’t worry! Simply blend it for longer to thicken it. You can also add a bit more oil or an extra egg yolk to emulsify it again. If it’s too thick, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to loosen it up.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re considering vegan options, you can substitute egg yolks in the mayo with silken tofu. Additionally, if you or your friends have allergies to eggs or are avoiding animal products, using a plant-based version will still give you that creamy texture. Always check for allergies with spices and other ingredients used.
How can I adapt this recipe for different spice levels?
To customize the spice level in your chipotle mayo, start with a smaller amount of chipotle in adobo sauce and taste-test as you blend. If you prefer it milder, you can omit the chipotle altogether or replace it with a sweet chili sauce for a different taste profile, perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness but not much heat.
Crispy Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce You’ll Love!
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Mason Jar
- immersion blender
Ingredients
For the Fries
- 2 large Russet Potatoes High-starch for crispy texture
- 1 cup Dill Pickle Juice For brining
- 1 teaspoon Dried Dill Fresh dill can be used
- 2 tablespoons Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Can substitute with other oils
- 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust to taste
For the Chipotle Mayo
- 2 large Egg Yolks Silken tofu for vegan option
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Can substitute with vinegar
- 1/2 cup Avocado Oil Neutral oil can be used
- 1 teaspoon Vinegar Apple cider or white vinegar recommended
- 1 tablespoon Chipotle in Adobo Sauce Adjust for spice level
- 1/2 teaspoon Paprika Can skip if preferred milder
For Serving
- 1 teaspoon Flaky Salt For finishing touch
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Dill For garnish
Instructions
How to Make Pickle Fries with Spicy Dipping Sauce
- Prep Potatoes: Start by scrubbing and drying the large russet potatoes. Slice them into fries or wedges, keeping them thick for a satisfying crunch.
- Brine: Soak the potato wedges in dill pickle juice for at least 2 hours, or if short on time, let them marinate for 20-30 minutes.
- Make Chipotle Mayo: In a mason jar, combine egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, vinegar, and avocado oil. Use an immersion blender to emulsify it all together, then stir in chipotle sauce and paprika once it's smooth.
- Season Potatoes: Remove potatoes from the brine (no need to rinse) and pat them dry. Toss wedges with dried dill, olive oil, salt, pepper, and a splash of pickle juice until evenly coated.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the potato wedges in a single layer and fry for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through until crispy and golden brown.
- Serve: Once perfectly crisp, sprinkle fries with flaky salt and fresh dill. Serve alongside chipotle mayo for dipping.
Notes
Nutrition
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