BAKED SWEET POTATO FRIES

How to Make Sweet Potato Fries

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes (optional) and cut them into 1/4-inch thick fries. Try to make the fries as uniform as possible for even cooking.
3. Soak the Fries: For crispier fries, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This helps to remove excess starch.
4. Dry the Fries: Drain and thoroughly pat the fries dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
5. Coat the Fries: In a large bowl, toss the fries with olive oil. If using cornstarch, mix it with the spices (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) before adding to the fries. Toss until evenly coated.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not touching each other to ensure they bake evenly.
7. Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, then flip the fries over and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Season with additional salt if desired.

Are Sweet Potato Fries Healthier Than Regular Fries?

Sweet potato fries can be healthier than regular fries due to their higher content of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. However, this depends on the preparation method. Baked sweet potato fries, using less oil, are generally a healthier option compared to deep-fried versions. The nutritional benefits of sweet potatoes include:

• Lower Glycemic Index: Sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index compared to regular potatoes, which means they may have a less drastic impact on blood sugar levels.
• Nutrient-Rich: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins (especially vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene), minerals, and fiber.

What Can You Eat with Sweet Potato Fries?

Sweet potato fries pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

• Burgers: Classic beef, turkey, or veggie burgers.
• Sandwiches: Pulled pork, chicken, or grilled vegetable sandwiches.
• Salads: As a side to fresh salads or mixed in with a hearty salad.
• Dips: Serve with a variety of dips like ketchup, aioli, garlic mayo, or guacamole.
• Grilled Meat: Complementary to grilled chicken, steak, or fish.

Recipe Tips:

1. Uniform Size: Cut the fries uniformly to ensure even cooking.
2. Soaking: Soak the fries in cold water to help remove excess starch and increase crispiness.
3. Cornstarch: Adding a small amount of cornstarch can help achieve a crispier texture.
4. Space Them Out: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; fries need space to crisp up.
5. Flip Midway: Flipping the fries halfway through baking ensures they cook evenly on all sides.
6. High Heat: Baking at a high temperature helps to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender.
7. Experiment with Spices: Customize your fries with different seasonings such as cayenne pepper for heat, cinnamon for sweetness, or rosemary for an aromatic twist.

Enjoy your homemade sweet potato fries!