Craving a delicious, crispy side that’s also naturally sweet? Look no further than homemade sweet potato fries! These golden beauties are surprisingly simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Forget the deep fryer – we’ll bake them to perfection for a healthier, less messy option.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Sweet Potatoes: Orange-fleshed varieties work best. No good substitutes here, they’re the star!
- Cornstarch: This is our secret weapon for extra crispiness. Arrowroot powder can be used as an alternative.
- Oil: Avocado oil or olive oil are great choices. Use an oil with a high smoke point.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and paprika are classic. Feel free to add garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
* 2 medium sweet potatoes (about 1.5 lbs)
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Spices:
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large baking sheet, parchment paper (optional, but recommended), large mixing bowl.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
2. Wash and Cut Sweet Potatoes
Thoroughly wash your sweet potatoes. You can peel them if you prefer, but the skin is perfectly edible and adds nutrients. Cut them into even, fry-like sticks, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Consistency is key for even cooking!
3. Soak and Dry
Place the cut sweet potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 15-30 minutes; this helps remove excess starch for crispier fries. Drain them well, then pat them completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for crispy sweet potato fries!
4. Toss with Cornstarch and Oil
In the large, dry bowl, sprinkle the cornstarch over the dry sweet potato sticks. Toss well to coat every fry. Next, drizzle with olive oil and toss again until the sweet potato fries are evenly coated.
5. Season the Fries
Add salt, black pepper, and paprika to the bowl. Toss everything together one last time, ensuring all the sweet potato fries are seasoned.
6. Arrange and Bake
Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they aren’t overcrowded; use two baking sheets if necessary to give them space. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each fry and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover sweet potato fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 5-10 minutes, until crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why are my sweet potato fries soggy?
A: This usually happens if they aren’t completely dry before coating, or if the baking sheet is overcrowded. Make sure to pat them dry and give them space to breathe in the oven.
Q: Can I air fry sweet potato fries?
A: Yes! Air frying is a fantastic option. Follow similar steps, adjusting the time and temperature according to your air fryer’s instructions, typically around 375-400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: Do I have to soak the sweet potatoes?
A: Soaking helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries, so it’s highly recommended for the best results.
Q: What if I don’t have cornstarch?
A: While cornstarch helps with crispiness, you can still make good sweet potato fries without it. Just increase the cooking time slightly and ensure they are very dry before oiling.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with sweet potato fries?
A: Ketchup is a classic, but sweet potato fries also pair wonderfully with a creamy sriracha mayo, honey mustard, or even a simple ranch dressing.
Q: Can I use different seasonings?
A: Absolutely! Get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon for a sweeter treat.