Chinese Five Spice Air Fryer Butternut Squash Fries Recipe

Butternut squash: A versatile winter squash with a sweet, nutty flavor, perfect for making fries.

Olive oil: Helps to coat the squash fries, ensuring they become crispy in the air fryer.

Chinese five spice powder: A blend of spices that adds a unique and aromatic flavor to the fries.

Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the squash and spices.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and balances the sweetness of the squash.

When peeling and cutting the butternut squash, use a sharp knife and a sturdy peeler to make the process easier and safer. Cut off both ends of the squash first to create a stable base, then peel the skin. Slice the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and cut into fry-shaped pieces. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture in the air fryer.

• butternut squash - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a great alternative for fries.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it suitable for air frying.

• chinese five spice powder - Substitute with garam masala: Garam masala has a complex flavor profile that can mimic the depth of Chinese five spice.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, enhancing the overall taste.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and spice, providing a different but complementary flavor.

• Allow the butternut squash fries to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation and sogginess.

• Transfer the cooled fries to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to keep them from sticking together.

• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For the best texture, reheat the fries in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes until they regain their crispiness.

• For freezing, arrange the cooled fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until the fries are frozen solid.

• Once frozen, transfer the fries to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

• To reheat from frozen, preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen fries in the basket in a single layer and cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Avoid microwaving the fries as it can make them soggy. The air fryer is the best method to maintain their texture and flavor.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover butternut squash fries in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the squash fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warmed and regain their crispiness.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan. Place the butternut squash fries in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly crispy.

• Microwave Method: Place the squash fries on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through. Note that this method may not retain the original crispiness as well as other methods.

• Air fryer: This is the main cooking appliance used to make the butternut squash fries crispy and golden brown without deep frying.

• Peeler: Essential for removing the tough skin from the butternut squash.

• Knife: Used to cut the butternut squash into fry-shaped pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for safely cutting the butternut squash.

• Mixing bowl: Used to toss the butternut squash pieces with olive oil, Chinese five spice powder, salt, and pepper.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for accurately measuring the olive oil and Chinese five spice powder.

• Tongs: Helpful for shaking the basket halfway through cooking and for removing the fries from the air fryer.

• Spatula: Can be used to ensure the fries are evenly spread out in the air fryer basket.

Pre-cut squash: Buy pre-cut butternut squash to save time on peeling and chopping.

Batch cooking: Cook a larger batch and store leftovers for quick reheating.

Use a mandoline: Slice the squash evenly with a mandoline for uniform cooking.

Preheat properly: Ensure the air fryer is fully preheated to reduce cooking time.

Minimal seasoning: Mix olive oil, Chinese five spice powder, salt, and pepper in advance for quick seasoning.