Baked sweet potato fries are a delightful and nutritious alternative to traditional fries. With their naturally sweet and earthy flavor, combined with a hint of seasoning and a perfect crispy texture, these fries are sure to elevate your snacking experience. They are not just delicious but are also packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a wise choice for a side dish or even a light snack.
Why We Love This Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
There’s something inherently satisfying about biting into a perfectly baked sweet potato fry. Unlike deep-fried versions, these baked fries boast a crispy exterior and a tender, moist interior while being healthier and lower in fat. The versatility of sweet potatoes shines through in this recipe, as the fries can be flavored in various ways to suit your mood. Whether enjoyed with a simple dipping sauce or as part of a larger meal, baked sweet potato fries make everyone happy. Plus, they are easy to whip up and fulfill both comfort and health requirements. These fries are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes with their vibrant color and appealing presentation.
Ingredients about Baked Sweet Potato Fries
To create your baked sweet potato fries, you will need the following ingredients:
- Sweet Potatoes: 2 lbs, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick sticks
- Cornstarch: 1 Tbsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp
- Olive Oil: 2 1/2 Tbsp
- Non-stick Cooking Spray
- Optional Garnish: Minced parsley
- Optional Dipping Sauce: Such as ketchup or fry sauce
These simple ingredients come together to make a dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying.
How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Fries Directions
Making your baked sweet potato fries starts with the right preparation. Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step ensures that your fries cook evenly and become perfectly crispy. While the oven warms, prepare two baking sheets, each measuring 18 by 13 inches, by spraying them generously with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the fries from sticking and promote a golden brown finish.
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This mixture will add a flavorful and crispy coating to the sweet potatoes. In a larger mixing bowl, toss the sliced sweet potatoes with olive oil until they are thoroughly coated. Next, sprinkle the cornstarch mixture over the sweet potatoes and toss again to ensure even coverage.
Divide the seasoned sweet potatoes between your two baking sheets, spreading them out into a single layer. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the fries, as this could lead to steaming rather than baking. Once evenly distributed, place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake the fries for 15 minutes, then carefully remove them to turn them over. This flipping ensures that all sides become crispy and golden.
After flipping, return the baking sheets to the oven, ideally swapping their positions to promote even cooking. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the fries reach your desired level of crispiness. Once they are done, remove them from the oven and serve warm. You might wish to garnish them with minced parsley for added color and flavor, and don’t forget your favorite dipping sauce to complete the experience.
How to Serve Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Serving your baked sweet potato fries can be as creative as you want it to be. They make a fantastic side dish for a variety of meals, from burgers to grilled chicken or even as a standalone snack while watching your favorite movie. You can present the fries in a simple bowl or on a rustic platter for a delightful table setting.
You can enhance the serving experience by offering a variety of dipping sauces. Classic ketchup, tangy fry sauce, or even homemade garlic aioli can complement the natural sweetness of the potatoes beautifully. For those who enjoy a little bit of a kick, consider adding spicy mayo or sriracha sauce. The beauty of serving baked sweet potato fries lies in their versatility; they cater to a range of taste preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table finds joy in them.
Expert Tips: Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Achieving the perfect baked sweet potato fries is an art that can be perfected with a few expert tips. First, opt for sweet potatoes that are firm and smooth, avoiding any with blemishes or soft spots. Consistency in size is also important; try to cut your sweet potatoes into uniform sticks to ensure they cook evenly.
If you desire an extra crispiness, soak the sweet potato sticks in cold water for about 30 minutes before tossing them in oil and seasoning. This step helps to remove excess starch, resulting in fries that are more likely to turn out crispy.
When applying the cornstarch mixture, feel free to get creative by adding other spices such as cumin or chili powder for an exciting twist. Baking your fries on parchment paper can make cleanup a breeze and keep them from sticking to the baking sheets. Lastly, don’t be afraid to keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary, and you want to catch them as they reach that perfect golden brown.
How to Store Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Storing baked sweet potato fries is straightforward. Once they have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for about three to five days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes to help restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving them, as this will make them soggy.
If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing them before baking. After cutting and seasoning the sweet potatoes, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Variation of Baked Sweet Potato Fries
You can customize your baked sweet potato fries in numerous ways to suit your taste preferences. For a sweet version, try drizzling a little maple syrup over the fries before baking, adding a hint of caramelization. If you love a spicy kick, mix in cayenne pepper with your seasoning for a delightful heat that pairs well with the sweetness of the potatoes.
For those looking for a different flavor profile, consider citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, mixed with your seasonings. This will add a refreshing zing to the fries. Additionally, you can try tossing in your favorite herbs, like rosemary or thyme, before baking for an aromatic experience. The options are endless, allowing you to enjoy baked sweet potato fries in a way that suits your cravings perfectly.
FAQ about Baked Sweet Potato Fries
What makes Baked Sweet Potato Fries different from regular fries?
Baked sweet potato fries are made from sweet potatoes, which provide a naturally sweet flavor and are often considered to be healthier than traditional potato fries. They are usually lower in calories and carbs, while offering a good source of vitamins A and C.
Can I make Baked Sweet Potato Fries ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare sweet potato fries ahead of time. You can cut and season them, then store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. Alternatively, freeze them raw for later use, simply extending the baking time when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Are Baked Sweet Potato Fries healthy?
Absolutely! Baked sweet potato fries can be a healthy alternative to traditional fried potatoes, especially because they are baked rather than fried, resulting in lower fat content. Additionally, sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious option.
What can I dip Baked Sweet Potato Fries in?
Baked sweet potato fries can be dipped in a variety of sauces. Classic choices include ketchup and ranch dressing, while more adventurous options could be spicy mayo or garlic aioli. Feel free to get creative and experiment with your favorite dip!
Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Equipment
- Baking Sheets
- Mixing Bowls:
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes peeled and cut into 1/2-inch thick sticks
- 1 Tbsp. cornstarch
- 1 tsp. salt
- ½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. paprika
- ½ tsp. garlic powder
- 2½ Tbsp. olive oil
- non-stick cooking spray
- optional garnish minced parsley
- optional dipping sauce such as ketchup or fry sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare two baking sheets with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with olive oil until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the cornstarch mixture over the sweet potatoes and toss again to coat evenly.
- Spread the sweet potatoes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully flip the fries over and swap the positions of the baking sheets.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with minced parsley if desired, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
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