Ingredients
Scale
- 3 large turnips (about 1.5 lbs), peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for extra crunch)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by washing the turnips thoroughly. Use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the tough outer skin. Slice the turnips into consistent 1/2-inch thick sticks, mimicking the shape of standard French fries. If the turnips are very large, cut them in half first to create a flat surface for safer slicing. Once cut, pat the turnip sticks completely dry with a paper towel. Removing excess moisture is the secret to achieving a crispy texture rather than a soggy one.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the turnip sticks with the olive oil. Toss them well until every piece is lightly coated. In a small ramekin, whisk together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Sprinkle the spice mixture over the turnips and toss again. Ensure the spices are distributed evenly so every bite is packed with flavor.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Place the seasoned turnip sticks into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, remove the basket and give it a vigorous shake to ensure even browning. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly.
- Once the fries are golden brown and the edges look crisp, remove them from the air fryer. Transfer the fries to a serving plate immediately. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or sugar-free ketchup.
- Cook Time: 35 minutes