7 Steps to Restaurant-Quality Sweet Potato Fries at Home

Sweet potato fries: a delightful twist on the classic side dish, offering a satisfying blend of sweet and savory flavors. Originating in North America, these fries have quickly become a popular alternative to traditional potato fries, gracing menus worldwide. Their vibrant color and unique nutritional profile make them a guilt-free indulgence that even the pickiest eaters can enjoy.

In this recipe, I’ll show you how to achieve perfectly crispy sweet potato fries in your own kitchen, using simple techniques and readily available ingredients. Say goodbye to soggy fries and hello to a batch of golden, deliciousness that will rival your favorite restaurant’s.

Quick Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 250 (per serving)

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/4-inch thick fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into evenly sized fries, about 1/4-inch thick. Consistency is key for even cooking.
3. Toss with Cornstarch: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with cornstarch. This helps to absorb moisture and create a crispy exterior.
4. Add Seasoning: Drizzle the fries with olive oil, then sprinkle with smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.
6. Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the fries and continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the fries cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to crisp up further.

Pro Tips for Success

• Soaking: For extra crispy fries, soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before tossing with cornstarch. This removes excess starch.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure the fries are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding will steam the fries, resulting in a soggy texture.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of heat. You can also add other spices like onion powder or chili powder.
• Storage: Store leftover sweet potato fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

How to Serve and Present

Serve these delicious sweet potato fries as a side dish with your favorite burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats. Pair them with a creamy dipping sauce, such as aioli, ranch, or honey mustard.

For an appealing presentation, arrange the fries in a criss-cross pattern on a plate or in a fry basket. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or cilantro, for added visual appeal.

Variations to Try

• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: For a quicker and healthier option, cook the fries in an air fryer at 380°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Spicy Sweet Potato Fries: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicier kick.
• Cinnamon Sugar Sweet Potato Fries: Toss the cooked fries with cinnamon sugar for a sweet and savory treat.

FAQ Section

Q: Why are my sweet potato fries soggy?

A: Soggy fries are often caused by overcrowding the baking sheet or not using enough cornstarch. Make sure to spread the fries in a single layer and toss them thoroughly with cornstarch before baking.

Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?

A: Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but the cooking time may vary slightly.

Q: How do I reheat sweet potato fries?

A: The best way to reheat sweet potato fries is in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispness.

Q: Can I freeze sweet potato fries?

A: Yes, you can freeze cooked sweet potato fries. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with sweet potato fries?

A: Many dipping sauces pair well with sweet potato fries, including aioli, ranch, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce.

Conclusion

With these simple steps and helpful tips, you can easily create restaurant-quality sweet potato fries in your own kitchen. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with the satisfying crispness, makes them a crowd-pleasing side dish for any occasion.

So, grab some sweet potatoes, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a batch of homemade fries that are sure to impress. Share your results in the comments! You might also like our recipes for classic french fries or crispy potato wedges.