Tornado potatoes (or “spiral potatoes”) are the star attraction at every fair. The secret to achieving the perfect look at home isn’t expensive equipment, but a simple DIY invention that you can build in two minutes using kitchen utensils.
Here are the instructions for the device and how to make them:
The “Invention”: The Manual Spiral Slicer
Forget the tedious hand-cutting. All you need is:
A sturdy wooden skewer.
A cordless drill (with the chuck thoroughly cleaned).
A sharp knife.
How it works:
Place the potato lengthwise in the center of the skewer.
Carefully clamp the end of the wooden skewer into the chuck of the cordless drill.
The trick: Position the knife at a slight angle at the top of the potato. Slowly rotate the cordless drill on its lowest setting while simply holding the knife steady and gently pushing it towards the skewer.
The potato will practically slide past the knife on its own, creating a perfect, even spiral.
The preparation: Crispy like a pro
Once the potato is sliced, carefully pull the spiral apart along the skewer, creating spaces between the slices.
- The marinade (for flavor)
In a small bowl, mix:
4 tbsp melted butter or oil
1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
1/2 tsp garlic powder
A generous pinch of salt and pepper
Optional: Finely grated Parmesan cheese
- Baking/Frying
In the oven: Preheat to 200°C (390°F) using conventional oven settings (top and bottom heat). Generously brush the potatoes with the marinade. Place the skewers on a baking dish so that the potatoes “float” (the ends of the skewers rest on the edge). This ensures they become crispy all over. Baking time: approx. 25–30 minutes.
In an air fryer: Cook at 180°C (350°F) for approx. 15 minutes, turning halfway through.
Pro tips for success:
Choosing the right potatoes: Use firm, rather oblong potatoes. They hold their shape better when slicing and baking.
Removing starch: If you have time, soak the sliced spirals in cold water for 10 minutes. This removes excess starch and makes them even crispier in the oven. Pat dry afterward!
Safety first: If you’re using the cordless screwdriver method, hold the blade firmly and work at a very low speed. It’s efficient, but requires a steady hand.
Do you already have an idea of what topping to put on top? A classic option would be sour cream or – for the adventurous – a little truffle oil!