Introduction
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fries. They are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a great choice for a side dish or snack. One of the key factors in making perfect sweet potato fries is achieving that coveted crispy exterior while still maintaining a soft and fluffy interior. In this article, we will explore various techniques and tips on how to make crispy sweet potato fries right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
Instructions:
1. Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into uniform-sized fries. This will ensure even cooking and crispy results.
2. Soaking the Sweet Potato Fries
Soaking the sweet potato fries in water helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. Fill a bowl with cold water and add the sweet potato fries. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, then drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Seasoning the Fries
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss the sweet potato fries in this mixture until they are evenly coated.
4. Baking the Fries
Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the fries are not crowded to ensure they crisp up evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serving the Fries
Once the sweet potato fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or seasoning.
Tips for Making Crispy Sweet Potato Fries:
- Cut the sweet potatoes uniformly: This ensures that the fries cook at the same rate, resulting in consistent crispiness.
- Soak the fries: Soaking removes excess starch, allowing the fries to crisp up better in the oven.
- Use cornstarch: Tossing the fries in cornstarch before baking helps create a crispy exterior.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure the fries are in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up properly.
- Flip the fries halfway through baking: This helps ensure that both sides of the fries get crispy and golden brown.
- Let the fries cool slightly before serving: This allows them to crisp up even more and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
By following these simple steps and tips, you can easily achieve crispy sweet potato fries right in your own kitchen. Experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to customize the flavor to your liking. Whether as a side dish or a snack, crispy sweet potato fries are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
