Name: Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 500g); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp coarse sea salt; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked sweet potato fries wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? The crispy edges and soft centers call out to snackers everywhere, promising a delightful crunch with every bite. The vibrant orange hue makes them not just tasty but visually appealing too, like little pieces of sunshine on your plate.

Picture this: It’s a lazy Sunday afternoon, and you’ve decided to whip up a batch of these golden delights to pair with your favorite burger. As the fries bake, your family gathers around, eyes sparkling with anticipation. The moment they come out of the oven, you can almost hear the angels sing as everyone dives in for that first bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Sweet potato fries are not only easy to prepare but also deliver a flavor explosion with every crunchy bite
Visually stunning with their vibrant color, they bring life to any mealtime
You can serve them as a side or enjoy them on their own for a healthy snack
Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize with your favorite seasonings!

One time, I made these sweet potato fries for a casual get-together, and let’s just say they disappeared faster than my hopes of keeping leftovers for the next day!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Sweet Potatoes: Choose firm and unblemished potatoes for the best flavor and texture; they should feel heavy for their size.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor while ensuring that the fries get perfectly crispy.
Salt: Use coarse sea salt for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the potatoes.
Paprika: Opt for smoked paprika if you’re looking to add a subtle depth of flavor that complements the natural sweetness.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper elevates the taste; never underestimate its power in savory recipes!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up later.

Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash and peel your sweet potatoes. Cut them into sticks about 1/4 inch thick; uniform sizes help them cook evenly.

Toss in Olive Oil and Spices: In a large bowl, drizzle olive oil over the sweet potato sticks. Sprinkle salt, paprika, and black pepper evenly over them. Toss until well coated.

Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned sweet potato sticks in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet; avoid overcrowding so they crisp up nicely.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy at the edges. Flip halfway through baking for even crispiness.

Cool and Serve!: Once baked to perfection, remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce!

Enjoy these delectable sweet potato fries as a perfect side dish or an irresistible snack any time of day!

You Must Know

Sweet potato fries are not just a side; they can steal the show
With their vibrant color and natural sweetness, they elevate any meal
Plus, they’re healthier than regular fries, making them guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve crispy sweet potato fries, start by soaking the cut potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch. Pat them dry before tossing with oil and seasoning.

Add Your Touch

Experiment with different seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. You could also try adding parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist that pairs beautifully with the sweet potatoes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect sweet potato fries, ensure uniformity in size when cutting to promote even cooking
Use cornstarch as a light coating for extra crunch
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give them space to breathe and crisp up nicely

I once made these sweet potato fries for a game night gathering, and they disappeared faster than my hopes of winning poker! Everyone raved about them, and I felt like a culinary rockstar—who knew sweet potatoes could be so charming?

FAQs

FAQ

Are sweet potato fries healthier than regular fries?

Sweet potato fries offer more nutrients and fiber compared to regular potato fries.

Can I make sweet potato fries in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air frying provides a crispy texture with less oil than traditional frying.

What’s the best way to cut sweet potatoes for fries?

Aim for uniform sizes—about 1/4 inch thick—to ensure even cooking and crispiness.