Crispy Air Fryer Carrots
These Crispy Air Fryer Carrots transform ordinary carrots into caramelized, slightly crispy delights with tender interiors. Seasoned simply but effectively, they highlight the natural sweetness of carrots while adding a satisfying textural contrast that elevates any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound about 8-10 medium carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 teaspoon fresh
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional, for extra caramelization
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prep the carrots by washing them thoroughly and patting dry. Trim the ends and cut into even sticks about 3-4 inches long and 1/2 inch thick. Consistent sizing ensures they cook evenly.
- Place carrots in a mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until each piece is coated completely – this is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness.
- Add the seasonings – garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. If using honey or maple syrup, add it now. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 2-3 minutes. Preheating helps achieve better crispiness from the start.
- Arrange the carrots in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding – work in batches if necessary for optimal air circulation and crispiness.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, pausing to shake the basket halfway through cooking. The carrots should develop visible caramelized spots and be easily pierced with a fork.
- Check for doneness at the 12-minute mark. If you prefer them softer, add 2-3 more minutes. For extra crispiness, increase temperature to 400°F for the final 2 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving dish, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately while still hot and crispy.
Notes
- The thickness of your carrot sticks will affect cooking time – thinner sticks cook faster but can dry out more easily.
- If you prefer a spicy kick, add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
- For a more gourmet version, toss the hot carrots with a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese right after cooking.
- These carrots reheat surprisingly well in the air fryer – just 2-3 minutes at 350°F will bring back most of the crispiness.
- Air fryer models vary in power, so your first batch may require slight time adjustments.