How to Make Paleo-Friendly Sweet Potato Fries
Are you on a Paleo diet but craving some delicious, crispy fries? I’ve got great news for you! Sweet potato fries are not only Paleo-friendly but also super easy to make, delicious, and healthier than your traditional French fries. Sweet potatoes are a favorite in the Paleo community due to their nutritional benefits and versatility. They’re packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a nutritious snack or side dish. Today, I’m going to walk you through a simple recipe to make your very own scrumptious sweet potato fries at home.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– ½ teaspoon of sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon of black pepper
– Optional spices: ½ teaspoon of paprika, garlic powder, or any other seasoning you love
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (for less mess and easy clean-up)
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large bowl
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key for getting those fries crispy on the outside while keeping them soft and delicious on the inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly since we’ll be leaving the skin on for extra nutrients and texture. Dry them with a towel. Then, on a cutting board, slice the sweet potatoes into fries. Try to keep them about the same thickness, so they cook evenly. This usually means cutting them into strips about ¼ inch thick.
Step 3: Season the Fries
Transfer the cut sweet potatoes into a large bowl. Drizzle them with olive oil, then sprinkle the sea salt, black pepper, and any other spices you decided to use. Toss everything together until the fries are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This step is optional but highly recommended to avoid the fries sticking to the baking sheet and ensure an easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t touching too much; space allows them to cook evenly and get crispy.
Step 5: Bake the Fries
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, take them out and flip the fries to ensure they get crispy on all sides. After 20-25 minutes, check if they’re crisped to your preference. Depending on their thickness and your oven, they might require a few more minutes.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Sweet Potato Fries
Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool down for a couple of minutes. They’re best served hot and crispy, straight out of the oven. Sweet potato fries go well with a variety of dips and sauces, or they can be a superb side dish to a bigger meal. For a Paleo-friendly dipping option, consider avocado mayo or a homemade salsa.
Tips for the Perfect Sweet Potato Fries:
- Cut evenly: Try to cut your fries into even sizes for uniform cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spreading the fries out in a single layer without overcrowding allows each fry to get crispy.
- Flip halfway through: Turning the fries mid-way through cooking ensures even crispiness.
- Season well: Don’t be shy with your spices; sweet potatoes can handle bold flavors.
Sweet potato fries are a delightful treat that fits perfectly within the Paleo lifestyle. They satisfy that craving for something salty and crispy without straying from your health goals. By following this simple recipe, you can whip up a batch of scrumptious fries anytime you want. So, next time that fry-craving hits, know that you have a nutritious and delicious option right at your fingertips. Enjoy!
Remember, the beauty of making your own sweet potato fries is the ability to customize them to your taste preferences. Play around with different spices and find your perfect combination. Happy cooking!
