Sweet Potato Fries Recipe: Crispy, Flavorful, and Irresistible
Craving a snack that’s crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free? Sweet potato fries are the perfect answer. They’re the ultimate balance of sweet and savory with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or a snack to share, these fries fit the bill. Easy to make and packed with natural sweetness, they’re a versatile favorite for any meal.
Imagine dipping warm, golden sweet potato fries into your favorite sauce. They’re not just a treat for your taste buds but also loaded with nutrients that make them a wholesome choice.
Ready to whip up this simple yet irresistible recipe? Grab your sweet potatoes, and let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of pantry staples transform sweet potatoes into a crowd-pleaser.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked, not fried, these fries are packed with nutrients.
- Customizable Flavors: Adjust the spices to match your taste preferences.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1 pound)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a neutral taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (plus more for seasoning)
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
Required Kitchen Tools
To ensure a hassle-free cooking experience, gather the following tools:
- Chef’s Knife: For precise and safe cutting of sweet potatoes.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy base for slicing.
- Mixing Bowls: One large and one small for tossing ingredients.
- Baking Sheets: At least two for even baking.
- Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Tongs or Spatula: For flipping fries halfway through baking.
- Measuring Spoons: Ensures accurate seasoning.
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes
- Wash and peel the sweet potatoes if desired. Leaving the skin on adds fiber and creates a slightly crispier texture.
- Cut into ¼-inch matchsticks. Uniform sizes ensure even baking.
2. Make the Cornstarch Slurry
- Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth.
- The slurry evenly coats the fries, creating a crispy outer layer when baked.
3. Toss and Season
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potatoes, cornstarch slurry, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and optional cayenne.
- Toss until the fries are well-coated.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheets
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Spread the fries in a single layer with space around each piece. Crowded fries will steam rather than crisp.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the fries and rotate the pans.
- Continue baking for another 10–15 minutes or until golden and crispy.
6. Final Touches
- Sprinkle with additional salt and spices, if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving and Decoration
Sweet potato fries can be enjoyed in countless ways:
- Pair with Dips: Serve with chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, or classic ketchup for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- As a Side Dish: Complement burgers, wraps, or roasted chicken with these fries.
- Decorative Plating: Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Nutrition
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sugar | 7g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
Sweet potato fries are rich in vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to your meal.
How to Store
If you have leftovers (unlikely!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigeration: Place cooled fries in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Spread fries on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. Then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to regain crispiness.
Tips for Even Better Fries
- Soaking Not Required: Unlike some recipes, this one skips the soaking step without sacrificing crispiness.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Bake fries in batches if necessary.
- High-Quality Spices: Fresh paprika and garlic powder make a noticeable difference.
Conclusion
Sweet potato fries are a versatile and flavorful dish that deserves a spot in your recipe rotation. With this comprehensive guide, you can confidently whip up a batch that’s crispy, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Serve them as a snack, side, or party appetizer, and watch them disappear in no time.
Got your oven preheated yet? Let’s get cooking!
