Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baked sweet potato fries are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional french fries. With their natural sweetness and vibrant color, sweet potatoes offer a wholesome twist on a classic favorite.
When baked, they develop a crispy exterior while remaining tender on the inside, making them a perfect side dish or snack for any occasion.
These fries are not only easy to prepare but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthier option for satisfying your cravings.
Serve them alongside burgers, grilled chicken, or as a tasty snack with your favorite dipping sauce. With their delightful flavor and appealing texture, baked sweet potato fries are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 1.5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (chopped, for garnish, optional)
- Dipping sauces (such as ketchup, aioli, or honey mustard, optional)
How to Make:
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven will help the sweet potato fries crisp up nicely.
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, cut them into thin strips or wedges, aiming for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Aim for about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in width.
Season the Fries:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the fries are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings for maximum flavor.
Arrange for Baking:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of roasting, resulting in less crispy fries.
Bake the Fries:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the fries using a spatula to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid burning; you want them golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
Once baked to perfection, remove the sweet potato fries from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces for an extra flavor boost.
Chef’s Note:
Choosing Sweet Potatoes: Look for firm, smooth-skinned sweet potatoes without blemishes. Varieties like Garnet or Jewel are great for fries, as they have a natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked.
Crispier Fries: For extra crispiness, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning and baking. This helps to remove excess starch. Be sure to pat them dry thoroughly before tossing them with oil and seasonings.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. You can try chili powder for a spicy kick, or cinnamon for a sweet twist. Adding a bit of cayenne pepper can also provide a nice heat to balance the sweetness of the potatoes.
Storage and Reheating: Baked sweet potato fries are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 160
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 2g
Baked sweet potato fries are a flavorful and health-conscious alternative to traditional fries. Their delightful taste and crunchy texture make them a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a satisfying snack on their own. With easy preparation and the option to customize flavors, these fries are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the sweet and savory goodness of baked sweet potato fries at your next gathering or family dinner!
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