Introduction

Baked sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional French fries. They offer a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful on the inside. Made with minimal ingredients and simple preparation, they are perfect as a side dish or a snack. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of potatoes while providing a great dose of nutrients.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Sweet potatoes – 2 large
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Salt – 1 teaspoon
Paprika – 1 teaspoon
Garlic powder – 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 25-30 minutes
Total Time – 40-45 minutes
Yield – 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preparation of Sweet Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven is heating, wash and peel 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes. After peeling, cut them into thin, even fries, roughly 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

Coat with Oil and Seasoning

In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure they are evenly coated. After that, add your preferred seasonings, which can include salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or any spices of your choice.

Arranging on Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up. Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This step is essential for achieving crispiness.

Baking Process

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the fries for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove them from the oven and flip the fries to ensure even cooking. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Cooling and Serving

Once the fries are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, serve them immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Choosing Sweet Potatoes

Select firm, blemish-free sweet potatoes for the best results. Avoid any that feel soft or have dark spots.

Cutting Fries

For the crispiest fries, it is important to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Spices and Seasonings

Feel free to experiment with different seasoning blends. You can customize flavors based on your preference, including options like chili powder or Italian seasoning.

Storage Recommendations

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, which will help retain their crispiness.

Cook techniques

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

Selecting sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes will yield the best results. Look for uniform size for even cooking.

Cutting Sweet Potatoes

Cut sweet potatoes into evenly sized fry shapes to ensure consistent cooking. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ to ½ inch.

Soaking Sweet Potatoes

Soaking cut sweet potatoes in water for 30 minutes helps to remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries after baking.

Drying the Sweet Potatoes

Thoroughly drying soaked sweet potatoes with a kitchen towel is crucial to achieving a crispy texture during baking.

Tossing with Oil and Seasoning

Toss the sweet potato fries with a small amount of oil and your preferred seasonings for added flavor and to promote even browning.

Baking at the Right Temperature

Bake sweet potato fries at a high temperature, around 425°F, for a crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft.

Flipping Fries for Even Cooking

Flip the fries halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly and achieve a consistent golden color.

FAQ

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can experiment with other types of potatoes, but the cooking time and texture may vary.

How do I store leftover fries?

Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven for best results.

Can I make these fries in an air fryer?

Yes, air fryers work well for making sweet potato fries. Adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed.

Why aren’t my sweet potato fries crispy?

Several factors can affect crispiness, including moisture content, cutting size, and cooking temperature. Make sure to soak and dry them properly.

What dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fries?

Sweet potato fries pair well with a variety of dips such as ketchup, aioli, or spicy mayonnaise.

Conclusion

Baked sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. They are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and can be a perfect side dish or snack. Enjoy the delightful taste and crispy texture that can be customized with various seasonings to suit your palate.

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