Sweet Potato Fries
Perfectly seasoned and baked until golden and crispy, these sweet potato fries are a fantastic, healthier alternative to traditional fries. They're slightly sweet, savory, and incredibly addictive. Soaking the fries before baking is the secret to achieving an extra-crispy texture. This recipe is the perfect side dish or snack for any occasion.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C)
- a.Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes
- a.Cut them into uniform fries, about 1/4-inch thick. For maximum crispiness, place the cut fries in a large bowl of cold water and let them soak for at least 30 minutes (or up to an hour). This removes excess starch.
- 3
Drain the soaked fries thoroughly
- a.Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. This step is critical, as any moisture will prevent them from getting crispy.
- 4
In a large, dry bowl, toss the fries with olive oil until evenly coated
- a.In a separate small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning mix over the oiled fries and toss well until every fry is lightly coated.
- 5
Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet
- a.Ensure they are not touching or overlapping to allow for proper air circulation. Use two baking sheets if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- 6
Bake for 15 minutes
- a.Remove the baking sheet from the oven and carefully flip the fries using a spatula.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Return the fries to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- 8
Remove from the oven
- a.Let them cool for a minute on the baking sheet, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra crispy fries, do not skip the soaking and drying steps. They make a significant difference.
- 2Cut the fries as uniformly as possible to ensure they cook evenly.
- 3Do not overcrowd the baking sheet. Giving the fries space is key to getting them crispy instead of steamed.
- 4These fries are best served immediately as they lose their crispiness upon cooling.
- 5Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chipotle aioli, ketchup, or a simple garlic yogurt dip.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
HerbyHerby
Add 1 teaspoon of dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the seasoning mix before baking.
Sweet & SavorySweet & Savory
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to the seasoning mix for a warm, sweet-and-savory flavor profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin A
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. This vitamin is crucial for vision health, immune function, and cell growth.
Good Source of Fiber
These fries are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Packed with Antioxidants
Sweet potatoes contain various antioxidants, such as anthocyanins (in purple varieties), which help protect your body from free radical damage and reduce inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of these baked sweet potato fries (about 1 cup or 145g) contains approximately 180-200 calories, depending on the exact size of the potatoes and amount of oil absorbed.