Sweet potato fries have become a beloved alternative to traditional french fries, offering a sweet, nutritious twist that can complement any meal or serve as a delicious snack. Perfect for a family of four, this recipe will guide you through the steps to achieve crispy, oven-baked sweet potato fries that are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Let’s dive into how to prepare this tasty, healthier side dish that both adults and kids will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or coconut oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Optional seasonings: paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or cinnamon
Preparation:
1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to getting those fries crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
2. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on provides additional nutrients and texture. Cut the sweet potatoes into thin, even sticks to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Season: Place the sweet potato sticks in a large bowl. Drizzle with Avocado or coconut oil (only use Olive oil with medium heat), ensuring all the fries are evenly coated. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you desire. Toss everything together to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Cooking:
1. Arrange on a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Spread the sweet potato fries out in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching. This helps them cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip the fries over and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your fries and your oven, so keep an eye on them.
3. Optional – Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the sweet potato fries for a few minutes at the end of the baking time. Just watch them closely to ensure they don’t burn.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the crispy sweet potato fries hot from the oven. They’re fantastic on their own or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce—ketchup, mayonnaise, aioli, or a spicy sauce all work wonderfully. Sweet potato fries make a great side dish for burgers, grilled chicken, or fish. They’re also perfect for snacking on during movie night or as a healthier option for kids’ parties.
Conclusion:
Sweet potato fries are a simple, delicious way to add more vegetables to your family’s diet. This oven-baked version is not only healthier than traditional fried fries but also easy to make and incredibly versatile. Experiment with different seasonings to find your family’s favorite combination. Enjoy the process of cooking together and the delicious results of your efforts. Bon appétit!
