I’ll never forget the first time I saw kohlrabi at the farmer’s market. It looked like something out of a sci-fi movie! I was intimidated, but determined to try something new. After some experimentation, I discovered the magic of turning this unique vegetable into something truly crave-worthy: Crispy Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer). Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for making these incredibly delicious and healthy fries – I promise you’ll be hooked after the first bite!
Discover the Delight of Kohlrabi Fries
Okay, friend, let’s talk kohlrabi! If you’re like most people, you’ve probably walked right past it at the grocery store without a second glance. But trust me, this humble vegetable is a hidden gem, especially when transformed into crispy, golden fries. Not only are they surprisingly delicious, but they are also a fantastic, healthier alternative to traditional potato fries. We’re going to explore how to make these amazing fries using both the oven and the air fryer, so you can choose the method that best suits you. Prepare to be amazed!
What Exactly IS Kohlrabi?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s get acquainted with our star ingredient. Kohlrabi, sometimes called a German turnip, is a member of the cabbage family. It has a bulbous shape with stems and leaves sprouting out. It comes in green and purple varieties, both of which have a mild, slightly sweet flavor that’s often described as a cross between a turnip and a broccoli stem. The texture is crisp and refreshing, making it perfect for both raw and cooked preparations.
Why Kohlrabi Fries Are a Game-Changer
Forget everything you think you know about healthy snacks being boring! Kohlrabi fries are here to revolutionize your snacking game. Here’s why they’re a winner:
- Lower in Calories and Carbs: Compared to potato fries, kohlrabi fries are significantly lower in calories and carbohydrates, making them a great option for those watching their weight or following a low-carb diet.
- Packed with Nutrients: Kohlrabi is a nutritional powerhouse, boasting high levels of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
- Surprisingly Delicious: The mild, slightly sweet flavor of kohlrabi becomes incredibly addictive when roasted or air-fried to crispy perfection.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple and requires minimal ingredients.
- Versatile: You can customize the seasonings to your liking, creating endless flavor variations.
The Ultimate Crispy Kohlrabi Fries Recipe (Baked or Air Fryer)
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! This recipe provides instructions for both baking and air frying, so you can choose your preferred method. I personally love both, but the air fryer is a bit quicker. However, the oven can be great for larger batches. Both yield incredibly delicious and Crispy Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer).
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium kohlrabi bulbs, peeled and cut into fry shapes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional: Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs (parsley, chives), your favorite dipping sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven or air fryer. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Prepare the kohlrabi. Peel the kohlrabi bulbs using a vegetable peeler. Then, cut them into fry shapes, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Try to make them as uniform in size as possible for even cooking.
- Toss with oil and seasonings. In a large bowl, toss the kohlrabi fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the oil and spices. This is key to achieving that crispy exterior!
- Arrange on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. For baking, spread the kohlrabi fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with browning. For air frying, arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Bake or air fry until crispy. For baking, bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. For air frying, air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your oven or air fryer.
- Serve immediately. Remove the Crispy Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer) from the oven or air fryer and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy!
- Optional: Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, aioli, or ranch dressing.
Golden Success Tips for Perfect Kohlrabi Fries
Here are my tried-and-true tips for achieving guaranteed crispy and delicious kohlrabi fries every single time:
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket. Overcrowding will steam the fries instead of roasting them, resulting in soggy fries. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Dry the kohlrabi fries thoroughly. After cutting the kohlrabi into fry shapes, pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help them get extra crispy.
- Use high heat. Baking or air frying at a high temperature is essential for achieving that golden-brown, crispy exterior.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings. Feel free to add other spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your kohlrabi fries. Some great options include chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, or rosemary.
- Serve immediately! Kohlrabi fries are best enjoyed hot and crispy right out of the oven or air fryer.
Flavor Variations to Spice Things Up
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily customize the flavor of your kohlrabi fries to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mixture for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking or air frying.
- Herbaceous: Toss with fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill after cooking.
- Lemon-Garlic: Add lemon zest and extra garlic powder to the seasoning mixture.
- Everything Bagel: Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning after cooking.
Pairing & Serving Suggestions
These Crispy Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer) are incredibly versatile and can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or even a snack. Here are a few ideas for pairing and serving them:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ketchup, aioli, ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or a homemade yogurt dip.
- Burgers and Sandwiches: These fries make a great alternative to traditional potato fries alongside burgers and sandwiches.
- Grilled Meats: Serve them as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Vegetarian Meals: Pair them with vegetarian burgers, salads, or other veggie-based dishes.
- Snack Time: Enjoy them as a healthy and satisfying snack on their own.
More Delicious Vegetable-Based Recipes
If you’re looking for more ways to incorporate vegetables into your diet, be sure to check out these other delicious and healthy recipes:
For another crispy and guilt-free snack, try these Crispy Baked Zucchini Chips. They’re incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor.
And if you are looking for a delicious main course option, you might like Mushroom Ricotta Zucchini Boats for a low-carb and satisfying meal.
And for another twist on the classic fried potato, try Air Fryer Baked Garlic Parmesan Potatoes for a quick and flavourful side dish.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Kohlrabi Fries
While kohlrabi fries are best enjoyed fresh, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that they will lose some of their crispness as they sit. To reheat, spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Be careful not to overheat them, as they can become dry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use purple kohlrabi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Purple kohlrabi works just as well as green kohlrabi in this recipe. The flavor is very similar, and the purple color will add a beautiful touch to your fries.
Can I freeze kohlrabi fries?
I don’t recommend freezing cooked kohlrabi fries, as they will lose their texture and become mushy when thawed. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store leftovers in the refrigerator for a short period of time.
Can I make this recipe without oil?
While you can technically make this recipe without oil, the fries will not be as crispy. The oil helps to create that golden-brown, crispy exterior that makes them so delicious. If you’re trying to reduce the amount of oil, you can use a non-stick cooking spray instead of tossing the fries with oil.
Can I use different seasonings?
Of course! Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to customize the flavor of your kohlrabi fries. Some great options include chili powder, cumin, dried oregano, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Are kohlrabi fries suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, kohlrabi fries are a great option for a keto diet! They are low in carbohydrates and high in fiber, making them a satisfying and healthy snack or side dish.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Crispy Kohlrabi Fries!
There you have it! A simple, healthy, and incredibly delicious way to enjoy kohlrabi. These Crispy Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer) are a game-changer, and I know you’re going to love them as much as I do. So, go ahead, grab some kohlrabi, and get ready to experience a snacking sensation that’s both good for you and incredibly satisfying. Happy cooking!
What does kohlrabi taste like?
Kohlrabi has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that’s often described as a cross between a turnip and a broccoli stem.
What are the benefits of eating kohlrabi fries compared to potato fries?
Kohlrabi fries are lower in calories and carbohydrates, and are packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
What are some tips for making sure the kohlrabi fries are crispy?
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer, dry the kohlrabi fries thoroughly before cooking, and use high heat when baking or air frying.
How should I store leftover kohlrabi fries?
Leftover kohlrabi fries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, although they will lose some of their crispness. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through.
Crispy Baked or Air Fryer Kohlrabi Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven or air fryer. For baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). For air frying, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
- Prepare the kohlrabi. Peel the kohlrabi bulbs using a vegetable peeler. Then, cut them into fry shapes, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Try to make them as uniform in size as possible for even cooking.
- Toss with oil and seasonings. In a large bowl, toss the kohlrabi fries with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the oil and spices.
- Arrange on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. For baking, spread the kohlrabi fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps with browning. For air frying, arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to work in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Bake or air fry until crispy. For baking, bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. For air frying, air fry for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as cooking times may vary depending on your oven or air fryer.
- Serve immediately. Remove the Crispy Kohlrabi Fries (Baked or Air Fryer) from the oven or air fryer and serve immediately. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy!
- Optional: Garnish and serve. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, aioli, or ranch dressing.
