Start by preheating the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your vegetables begin cooking immediately once they are placed inside, leading to a nice, crispy exterior.
Next, scrub and peel the turnips and sweet potato. Cut all the root vegetables into 1-inch chunks. This size helps them cook evenly and quickly. Place them into a large bowl.
Drizzle olive oil over the chopped vegetables. Then, add 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, along with fresh thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well-coated with the oil and seasonings.
Now, spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or line it with a disposable liner for easy cleanup. This step is crucial to prevent sticking.
Carefully place the seasoned vegetables into the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them; otherwise, they won’t roast properly. If necessary, cook in batches.
Air fry the vegetables for 20 to 30 minutes, tossing them halfway through. Keep an eye on them; they should be tender in the center with beautifully caramelized edges.
Once cooked, transfer the root vegetables to a large bowl. Remove the thyme sprigs, as most of the leaves will have fallen off during cooking.
Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of maple syrup over the hot vegetables and gently toss to coat. This extra touch of sweetness brings everything together.
Season the dish to taste with additional salt and pepper, adjusting to your liking.
Finally, serve the Air Fryer Root Vegetables warm or hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the delightful crunch and sweetness in every bite!
