When the cravings strike for a snack that's both indulgent and wholesome, it's hard to go past the humble sweet potato fry. A delightful alternative to its traditional potato cousin, this vibrant root vegetable brings a rich nutritional profile alongside its natural sweetness, making it a guilt-free treat when you're hankering for that perfect combination of flavour and crunch. Today, we will explore how to make your own crispy sweet potato fries that are sure to become your go-to comfort food.
Sweet potatoes are loved for their high fibre content, essential vitamins like A, C, and B6, and minerals including potassium and manganese. As a bonus, they're also a source of beta-carotene, an antioxidant known for boosting immunity and promoting eye health. With these fries, you're not just indulging in a delectable snack; you're also nourishing your body.
To begin, you'll need to select the best sweet potatoes for frying. Look for medium-sized sweet potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes or soft spots. A uniform shape will help you cut even fries, ensuring consistent cooking. After rinsing them thoroughly under cold water, peel the sweet potatoes. Some may prefer to leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients—the choice is yours.
Cutting the sweet potatoes into even, thin strips is crucial for achieving that desired crispiness. Aim for a width of about a quarter of an inch to a half-inch for best results, remembering that the fries will shrink slightly as they cook.
Before we proceed to cooking, one trick to enhance the crispiness lies in soaking the sliced fries in cold water. This step helps remove excess starch and prevent the fries from sticking together. Soak them for about an hour if you can spare the time; however, even a quick 15-minute dip will be beneficial. Once soaked, pat the fries dry with a clean towel to remove as much moisture as possible. Excess water can lead to soggy fries, and we certainly want to avoid that.
Now, for the seasoning. To elevate the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes, a blend of spices such as paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne pepper can work wonders. Toss the fries in a mix of these spices along with a dash of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. For the coating, a light drizzle of olive oil or a spray of cooking oil will suffice to help the spices adhere and promote an even, golden colour during baking.
The secret to achieving ultimate crispiness lies in the cooking method. While deep-frying might seem the conventional route to crunchy paradise, baking can offer an equally satisfying crunch with far less oil. Preheat your oven to a high temperature of around 220°C (425°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup, and spread the fries in a single layer, ensuring none are touching—this ensures even airflow and prevents steaming.
Bake the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they start to brown on the first side. Then, using a spatula, carefully flip the fries over and continue to bake for another 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during the final minutes to prevent burning.
As they bake, combine a dipping sauce to complement the sweet and spicy notes of the fries. A simple aioli made with mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic, and a bit of Dijon mustard can be whipped up within minutes, an irresistible tag-team partner for your fries.
Once the fries have reached the epitome of crispiness and are tinged with golden-brown edges, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. This post-baking rest period allows the fries to crisp up further as they cool.
Your crispy sweet potato fries are now ready to serve! They are best enjoyed fresh and hot, either as a standalone snack or accompanying a hearty meal like a juicy burger or grilled chicken. Whether you're settling in for a movie night or needing a pick-me-up during a busy day, these fires will satisfy your craving for comfort food without the usual side order of guilt.
With the perfect blend of sweet, savoury, spicy, and salty, these sweet potato fries deliver on all fronts. Not only are they indulgent and satisfying, but they're also packed with good-for-you nutrients. So next time you're looking for a snack that ticks all the boxes, remember this easy and delicious recipe for sweet potato fries—they're sure to secure a spot in your heart and your kitchen repertoire.