Sweet potato fries are the perfect blend of sweet and savory, crispy and tender. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a delicious snack, sweet potato fries are sure to please. There are several ways to cook sweet potato fries, whether in the oven, air fryer, and more. Here’s our favorite ways to cook up some delicious fries, let us know yours!
Oven-Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Baking sweet potato fries is a healthier option, offering crispy results with minimal oil.
- Preheat: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Preparation: Slice sweet potatoes into even sticks, about ¼-inch thick. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional spices (like paprika or garlic powder).
- Bake: Spread them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
The air fryer is a game-changer for achieving crispy fries with less oil.
- Preheat: Heat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Preparation: Coat sweet potato slices with a small amount of oil and seasonings.
- Cook: Place the fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 12-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Deep-Fried Sweet Potato Fries
For the ultimate crunch, deep frying is the way to go.
- Preparation: Heat vegetable or peanut oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Soak and Dry: Soak sliced sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Pat them dry thoroughly before frying.
- Fry: Fry in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Stovetop Pan-Fried Sweet Potato Fries
This method offers a crispy texture without a deep fryer.
- Preparation: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet and heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook: Add fries in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, flipping until crispy and golden.
Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Fries
Choose the Right Sweet Potatoes
Opt for firm, evenly sized sweet potatoes to ensure even cooking.
Uniform Slicing
Use a sharp knife or mandoline to cut fries evenly, helping them cook uniformly.
Coating for Crispiness
Toss fries with cornstarch or arrowroot powder before adding oil to enhance crispiness.
Avoid Overcrowding
Always cook fries in a single layer to allow airflow and even cooking.
Season After Cooking
Add delicate seasonings (like cinnamon or sugar) after cooking to prevent burning.
Sweet potato fries are versatile, nutritious, and endlessly customizable. Whether you bake, air fry, deep fry, or pan fry them, these golden fries are a hit in any kitchen. With these tips and recipes, you’re well on your way to mastering the art of sweet potato fries.