Perfectly Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: A Simple Yet Delicious Side Dish

Sweet potato fries have become a beloved snack and side dish in recent years due to their natural sweetness and the ability to be prepared with minimal ingredients yet provide maximum flavor. Whether you're looking for a healthier alternative or just want something tasty, these sweet potatoes can be seasoned, baked, and enjoyed straight from the oven.

This recipe focuses on achieving that perfect crunch while maintaining all the rich flavors of the sweet potato itself. The key to perfectly crispy sweet potato fries is in both preparation and cooking methods: the right temperature, time spent in oil, and the use of parchment paper to allow proper draining once cooked. Below are the detailed steps for making these delicious sweet potatoes.

Ingredients

• 3 large sweet potatoes (about 800 grams), peeled and sliced into long strips about 1/4-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 2 tablespoons of coarse sea salt, plus more for serving
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or hot)
• A pinch of black pepper

Steps to Make Perfectly Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

1. Cut the sweet potatoes: Start by scrubbing your sweet potatoes and ensuring they are completely dry. Slice them into long, thin fries using a mandoline slicer for uniformity or use a sharp knife to achieve similar results.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes: Place the sliced sweet potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Boiling the potatoes helps tenderize them, resulting in better crispy fries once baked.
3. Rinse the sweet potatoes: Once they have boiled for 5-7 minutes or until soft but not mushy, remove the pot from heat and drain the water thoroughly to avoid any excess moisture.
4. Dry the sweet potatoes: Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel. You can also lay them out on a flat surface in a single layer and let them air dry for 10-15 minutes before proceeding, which helps remove more water and ensures better crisping during baking.
5. Toss the sweet potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with olive oil until all pieces are evenly coated. This ensures that each fry is crisp once baked.
6. Season the fries: Sprinkle in salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper to taste. Mix well so that every piece gets a good coating of seasoning.
7. Baking the sweet potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper for better drainage after baking. Spread out the seasoned fries in one layer on each sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through so that they crisp evenly.
8. Final check: Once done, take your sweet potato fries out of the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They should be golden brown and crispy – enjoy!

Cooking Time and Number of Servings

The total cooking time for making perfectly crisp sweet potato fries is approximately 45 minutes, including boiling time and cooling time. This recipe serves about 6 people as a side dish or snack.

Enjoy the simplicity of this homemade recipe! It's an ideal dish to accompany various main courses such as grilled chicken, burgers, or any type of fried or baked meat. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings for more variety – try adding some chili powder for extra heat or cumin for a Mexican twist.

For those who prefer less preparation but still want the flavor and crispiness, consider purchasing pre-cut sweet potato fries from your local grocery store. However, homemade ones will always have that special touch of freshness and taste which cannot be replicated by processed products.

To conclude, perfectly crispy sweet potatoes can be a delightful addition to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients and some attention during the cooking process, you can easily transform ordinary sweet potatoes into an amazing treat for all your guests or family members. So why not give this recipe a try at home? You won’t regret it!