Hot water for French fries in air fryer. When making air French fries, it is usually necessary to precook the potato chips. This step helps to remove starch from the surface of potato chips, making them easier to form crispy skin during frying, and helps to maintain the shape of potato chips. When blanching, put the potato chips into boiling water and add a little salt. Blanching time is about 1 to 3 minutes, depending on the thickness of potato chips. After blanching, dry the potato chips with kitchen paper towels.