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Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges

October 23, 2023
•
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea
Jerk seasoning has a new vessel with my Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges, a perfect appetizer or side dish to go with your main meal plans for the entire family!
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Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges

Make the most delicious, crispiest Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges ever! Imagine a crispy exterior that gives way to a heavenly, melt-in-your-mouth center that comes fully coated in a spicy, spicy dry rub which elevates your eating experience. It's a fantastic family-friendly side dish, appetizer, or snack that'll disappear in seconds, especially with the side of dipping sauce which offsets any heat. Seriously, these homemade potato wedges are so good---they practically vanish into thin air. All Vegan + Gluten-free. With a oven baked option.

Jerk wedges in a wooden brown plate with a dipping sauce on a brown wooden table.

Welcome back to another Caribbean-inspired recipe!

I love finding a new way to utilize my favorite homemade Jerk seasoning. I've taken a lot of time and care in perfecting the recipe, so it's important that I find exciting foods to use it with! After a little brainstorming, I realized that potato wedges could be utilized in this way. That's how these Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges were born! Crispy potatoes are coated in oil and a liberal dusting of my homemade Jerk seasoning blend and olive oil for the perfect crispiness! Spicy, sweet, and savory, these wedges are the best you'll ever have!

If Jerk seasoning is too hot for you generally, try cooling your mouth down with sour cream, ranch, ketchup or my infamous BBQ ranch sauce which is included in this recipe. Well, now that I enjoy making my own homemade fries and wedges, I definitely love the fact that I can season my fries the way that I like. If you're a fries lover, then I recommend trying these Crispy Cajun Sweet Potato Fries, Seasoned Crinkle Cut Fries, Crispiest Seasoned French Fries and Crispiest Jumbo Garlic Herb Fries. There's nothing as delicious as homemade Flaky Jamaican Curry Chickpea Kale Veggie Patties---especially when they're achieved in just a few simple steps.

You're in for a treat with this jerk wedges recipe, baked in the air fryer (with an oven option too) to guarantee those crispy results we all crave—no soggy fries around here, I promise! It's incredibly easy, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients. Plus, it makes the perfect sidekick to so many meals, and let's not forget it's the ultimate flavor-packed snack, showcasing all the potato goodness we absolutely adore.

Jump to:

What is the Difference between Potato Wedges and Fries?

That's always a question that I get asked a ton! Basically, potato wedges are normally thick chunks of potatoes with the skin left on one side and they are normally spiced and seasoned and are normally oven baked (although I like to make my french fries pretty similar). Whereas, as french fries are peeled potatoes cut to a much thinner width and are traditionally fried---living up to their name.

Chopped potatoes on a cutting board with a knife.

How to Make Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges

The secret to achieving that mouthwatering crispiness with these potato wedges lies in the prep work. We start by cutting them into perfect wedge-shape (I love using a very sharp knife for the greatest ease + cut). Then, we soak them in ice-cold water, allowing them to fully dry afterward. After that comes the magic touch – a drizzle of oil and a generous amount of jerk seasoning. Finally, it's all about popping them in the air fryer to perfection.

The Ingredients

Here's the simple list of what you need for this Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges recipe:

  • Potatoes. Use russet or Yukon gold potatoes for the best texture. You'll need about 4-5 large ones. Gently scrubs and rinse with an organic chemical-free soap for clean skin.
  • Extra virgin olive oil. Creates that extra crispy exterior.
  • Jerk seasoning. I like two layers of seasoning for this dish. You can purchase a store-bought version or create a homemade blend using: onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, dried thyme, brown sugar, ground allspice, dried parsley, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cumin.
  • Dipping sauce. Feel free to use your favorite sauce/condiment for these wedges. I highly recommend my BBQ ranch sauce to go with the jerk flavors of these wedges, which I include in this recipe. However, regular Ranch, Ketchup, or Creamy Garlic Dressing/sauce works too!

What Is Homemade Jerk Dry Rub Seasoning?

Homemade Jerk Dry Rub Seasoning is a flavorful spice blend originating from Caribbean cuisine, particularly Jamaica. It's a carefully crafted mixture of various spices, herbs, and seasonings that come together to create a distinctive and bold jerk flavor.

Jerk seasoning is renowned for its spicy, aromatic + slightly sweet profile and this seasoning blend has been a beloved part of my family's traditions for as long as I can remember. It's a versatile companion in the kitchen, elevating everything it touches, from meats and seafood to vegetables.

Whether you're grilling, roasting, or pan-frying, the result is always a burst of vibrant and savory flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the Caribbean. Making it at home also gives you the power to adjust the spice level to your liking!

Potato wedges cut and soaked in iced cold water in a white bowl.

What are the 3 Main Ingredients in Jerk?

In jerk sauce or marinade, the 3 main ingredients that MUST be present are: scotch bonnet, thyme, and allspice (aka pimento seeds). You can't remove any of these ingredients or else it wouldn't be considered "jerk".

Is Jerk Sauce or Seasoning Very Spicy?

These wedges are spicy, but not overly hot. When it comes to making jerk anything, the amount of spicy and hot flavors would depend on the amount of scotch bonnets you add to both your marinade and sauce. You can always adjust the amount of peppers based on your personal preference.

Great Tips for Super Crispy Potato Wedges

These are my top tips to make sure your Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges are as crisp as possible:

  • Cut the potatoes to equal sizes as much as possible. This way, they cook at the same rate. In this case, you’ll be cutting them rather large.
  • Soak the potatoes for at least 20 minutes in cool water. This removes excess starch on the outside of the potatoes that prevent them from crisping up. 
  • Let the potatoes dry for at least 30 minutes (an hour is even better). moisture is the enemy of crispiness! For good measure, blot them dry with a towel as well. 
  • Don’t be afraid to season well!
  • Let the air fryer or oven come fully to temperature before you add the wedges to the air fryer/oven. It needs to be a nice and hot environment.
  • Spread the potato pieces out well on the air fryer basket or baking sheet lined with wire rack to let the hot air circulate around each individual fry. 
Cut potatoes on a baking sheet with paper towel, dried and laid side by side.

How To Make Homemade Jerk Seasoning

This jerk seasoning is as simple as mixing all your spices together and takes just 5 minutes! Here are the simple ingredients that you will need for this recipe -

What You'll Need:

  • Onion Powder: Adds a savory and aromatic depth.
  • Garlic Powder: Provides a rich, savory note that complements the other spices and herbs in the blend.
  • Cayenne Pepper: Infuses a fiery heat.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a bold and sharp flavor.
  • Dried Thyme: Imparts a fragrant herbal quality that's a hallmark of authentic jerk seasoning.
  • Organic Brown Sugar: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.
  • Ground Allspice: Offers a warm and pungent flavor that's a key ingredient in jerk seasoning, providing depth and complexity.
  • Dried Parsley: Enhances the seasoning with a mild herbal freshness.
  • Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky and slightly sweet note that elevates the overall taste.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Intensify the heat!
  • Ground Cinnamon: Contributes a warm and sweet undertone.
  • Ground Nutmeg: Offers a hint of nutty sweetness.
  • Ground Cloves: Infuses a strong, aromatic, and slightly sweet taste into the blend.
  • Cumin Powder: Provides a subtle earthy note, adding depth to the overall flavor.

Best Condiments To Dip Jerk Wedges Into

Dipping these Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges is a must and while there are many options out there if you don't want to limit yourself to just BBQ ranch sauce, I highly recommend serving these fries with any of the following:

Wedges in a silver bowl with seasoning.

Why You Will Completely LOVE These Jerk Wedges

  • Crispy exterior, tender interior – the perfect potato texture.
  • Bursting with spicy jerk flavor!
  • Ideal side dish for the whole family to enjoy---you can totally reduce the spicy level!
  • Versatile--complements various main courses.
  • A total crowd-pleaser at gatherings and dinner parties.
  • Elevates your potato game to a whole new level.

How To Serve Jerk Potato Wedges

These homemade jerk potato wedges are so incredibly tasty that they can stand tall as a delicious snack all by themselves. They're a crunchy and satisfying treat that will have you reaching for more.

But if you want a little more, consider pairing them with these delightful options:

BURGERS + SANDWICHES:

Match the crave-worthy crunch of the spicy potatoes with a juicy, flavorful burger or sandwich. It's a match made in culinary heaven! Try alongside this Vegan Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, Jerk Turkey Burger, Southern-Style Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich or this vegan-friendly Vegan 'Tuna' Melt Sandwich.

WINGS:

Serve with another favorite side like these juicy tender Orange Chicken Wings or with a veggie alternative like Lemon Pepper Cauliflower Wings or Baked Jamaican Jerk Chicken Wings.

LOADED POTATO FRIES:

Go all out by loading these potato wedges with toppings like melted cheese, crispy candied bacon bits, herb roasted tomatoes and a dollop of sour cream. It's a flavor explosion that combines the indulgence of comfort food with the irresistible crunch of crispy potatoes. Use this Loaded Potatoes with Spicy Beans or this Meatless Buffalo Ranch Kettle Chip Nachos for inspiration!

GRAIN BOWLS

Create hearty bowl meals with a base of these jerk potato wedges. Top them with your favorite proteins, veggies, and sauces for a flavorful and filling bowl. They would go beautifully with this Vegan Jamaican Power Bowl.

Jerk wedges on a brown wooden plate with a dipping sauce, fork, and herbs.

Common Q + A's for these Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges

How to store leftover jerk wedges?

Place any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, simply add leftovers to a freezer safe ziplock bag or container and keep frozen for up to 10 months. 

How long will jerk dry rub seasoning last?

Any leftover jerk seasoning can be stored in a ziplock bag for later use or used as garnish. 

Is this jerk wedges recipe gluten-free?

Yes, however be sure to double-check that BBQ ranch ingredients are gluten-free friendly to make this entire recipe gluten-free!

Can I use other seasoning instead of jerk?

Absolutely! You can get creative with your seasoning choices, my homemade lemon pepper seasoning and cajun seasoning also goes great with potato wedges. Just be mindful of the quantities to ensure the seasoning complements the wedges without overpowering them.

Can I bake these potato wedges in the oven?

Yes, of course! Just preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. After all of the initial prep, cut, + soak steps, transfer the wedges to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 35-40 minutes or until wedges are golden and crispy. NOTE: Test the doneness of potatoes by seeing how soft they are and how golden the edges become. If they are tender then they are done.

What are the best potatoes to use for wedges?

The top contenders for potatoes are Idaho or Russet potatoes. However, you can also make wedges or french fries using large Yukon potatoes as well as sweet potatoes for a nice twist!

Why is it important to soak potatoes in salt water?

Basically, soaking potatoes in salt water helps to draw out water and removes excess starch, ensuring a crisper, firmer result when cooking + baking your fries.

Do you rinse potatoes after soaking in water?

Yes! Once you've soaked them, simply drain and rinse before going to the next step which is letting them "air dry".

Why won't my wedges get crispy?

This issue is rather common if you use very starchy potatoes OR you don't allow for the potatoes to soak correctly. I always ensure ensuring that your water is VERY cold and stirring in the salt so that they are well dehydrated after the soak. In addition, it's never bad to prolong the soak time a bit (adding another 30 minutes) for bigger batches.

Up close shot of wedges on a brown wooden plate with a two forks and dipping sauce.

More Delicious Jerk Recipes to Try Next!

Now that you've fallen in love with the jerk flavors in this recipe, put it to good use with these other other delicious jerk recipes for the entire family:

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you.

Wedges on a brown wooden plate with dipping sauce and a wedge dipped inside.
Wedges on a brown wooden plate with dipping sauce and a wedge dipped inside.

Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges

October 23, 2023 •
By Shanika
5 from 6 votes
Jerk seasoning has a new vessel with my Air Fryer Jamaican Jerk Potato Wedges, a perfect appetizer or side dish to go with your main meal plans for the entire family!
Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Serves: 6 servings
Units:
US Customary|Metric
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Ingredients

WEDGES:

  • 1 ½ lbs. organic russet potatoes (That's about 4-5 large potatoes)
  • 3-4 Tbsps Extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tbsps Homemade Jerk Dry Rub Seasoning

DAIRY-FREE RANCH SAUCE:

  • 1 cup vegan mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup Almond milk (You can use your fave plant-based milk!)
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce, premium
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • ½ teaspoon freshly-squeezed lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dill weed
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • Pinch of black pepper

Instructions

PREP + SOAK POTATOES:

  • Rinse and pat dry each potato and cut lengthways into halves and then in halves lengthways again----this should create a jumbo (very large) wedge-like shape. You should have about 6-8 pieces of fries when done for each potato. Repeat until all potatoes are cut.
  • In a bowl, add cold water until ¾ filled along with a few ice cubes + 1 teaspoon of sea salt to keep things cold. Add cut potatoes into bowl and let soak for 20 minutes.
  • Once soak time is complete, drain potatoes, rinse with cold water, and pat dry thoroughly before adding them unto a flat surface (i.e. countertop, cutting board, etc.) lined with paper towels for them to "dry" out for a bit (about 30-minutes to 1 hour). NOTE: This process helps them to be extra crispy.

PREP THE JERK SEASONING BLEND:

BAKE THE FRIES IN AIR FRYER:

  • Add the dry cut slices of potatoes into a large bowl along with the jerk seasoning and olive oil, mixing everything together with your hands until fries are full coated.
  • Transfer the wedges to the prepared basket of your air fryer (I like to lightly spray with oil to avoid sticking) and set the temperature to 400 degrees. Wedges should take about 20-22 minutes to fully cook through and become crips. NOTE: check on the wedges every 10 minutes to shake the potatoes.

TO MAKE THE DAIRY-FREE FRY BBQ RANCH SAUCE:

  • In a bowl, add all ingredients and whisk together until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  • Remove the wedges from the air fryer and serve with a side of your favorite condiment/sauce or the BBQ ranch sauce.
  • Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

  • STORAGE: Place any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, simply add leftovers to a freezer safe ziplock bag or container and keep frozen for up to 10 months. 
  • JERK SEASONING (STORAGE): Any leftover jerk seasoning can be stored in a ziplock bag for later use or used as garnish. 
  • OVEN BAKED OPTION: See FAQ section for details!

Nutrition

Calories: 416kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 31g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 549mg | Potassium: 507mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 5g | Vitamin A: 31IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 1mg

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    • Thanks so much, Natalie! They really are crispy and full of spice! I do hope that you enjoy!

      Reply