How to Make Crispy Sweet Potato Fries at Home
Sweet potato fries are a delicious treat that can make any meal feel special. They are sweet, salty, and oh-so-tasty. But have you ever tried making them at home and ended up with soggy fries? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Sweet potatoes are tricky to get crisp because they hold more moisture than regular potatoes. However, with a few simple steps, you can make crispy sweet potato fries that are just as good (if not better!) than what you’d get at a restaurant. Let’s dive into how you can make crispy sweet potato fries at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Here’s what you need to make the perfect batch:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (optional, for extra crispiness)
– 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt (to taste)
– Optional seasonings: paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, or cinnamon
Tools:
- A sharp knife or a mandoline slicer
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before you start cutting the sweet potatoes, turn your oven on to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to getting crispy fries. This temperature will help them cook evenly and prevent sogginess.
Step 2: Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes
Once your oven is warming up, it’s time to prep the potatoes. Wash and peel your sweet potatoes. While peeling is optional, it can make the fries crispier without the skin trapping moisture.
Next, cut the sweet potatoes into thin strips. The fries should be as evenly sized as possible so they cook at the same rate in the oven. If you want them extra crispy, aim for thinner slices—thicker fries are harder to crisp up. A mandoline slicer can help make perfect cuts, but a sharp knife works just as well.
Step 3: Soak the Fries
This is the secret step for crispy fries! Once you’ve cut the sweet potatoes, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. You can even soak them for up to 2 hours if you have time. Soaking removes excess starch, which helps the fries crisp up better in the oven.
After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry with a clean dish towel or paper towels. Remember, dry fries are crucial for crispiness, so don’t skip this step.
Step 4: Add Cornstarch (Optional)
If you want to take your fries to the next level, toss them with some cornstarch before baking. Cornstarch creates a light coating that gives the fries a crispy texture. Put your fries in a mixing bowl, sprinkle 1 to 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, and toss them until they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Season the Fries
Once your fries are dry (and coated in cornstarch, if using), drizzle them with 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil. Olive oil helps them crisp up in the oven while adding flavor.
Now, season your fries to taste. A simple sprinkle of salt works wonders, but you can customize them to your liking. Add paprika for a smoky flavor, garlic powder for zing, black pepper for spice, or cinnamon for a sweet twist. Mix everything well to ensure the seasoning and oil evenly coat each piece.
Step 6: Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Spread your fries out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they’re in a single layer and not overlapping. Crowding the fries on the sheet traps steam and prevents them from crisping. If you’re making a large batch, use two baking sheets so there’s enough room for all the fries.
Step 7: Bake and Flip
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the fries for 15–20 minutes. After that time, take them out and flip each fry. This ensures they crisp evenly on all sides. Return the fries to the oven for another 15–20 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Keep an eye on them during the final minutes to make sure they don’t burn. Every oven is slightly different, so the fries may need a little more or less time.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the fries are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They’ll crisp up a bit more as they cool. Sprinkle some extra salt (if needed) and serve immediately. Crispy sweet potato fries are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack. Dip them in ketchup, ranch dressing, or a garlic aioli for even more flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t skip soaking the fries. It’s the most important step for crispy fries.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Flip the fries halfway through baking. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Serve immediately. Sweet potato fries are best when hot and fresh.
Conclusion:
Making crispy sweet potato fries at home doesn’t have to be difficult! With the right steps—soaking, drying, seasoning, and baking—you’ll have a batch of fries that are perfectly golden and crunchy. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your homemade crispy sweet potato fries. Happy cooking!
