Sweet potato fries are a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fries, and when made in an air fryer, they turn out irresistibly crispy without the need for excessive oil. In this article, we’ll walk you through a detailed recipea nd tips for perfecting the fries.
1. Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients
- 2 medium sweet potatoes (peeled if desired, cut into thin sticks)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1–2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: A pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Slice them into thin, even sticks (about ¼-inch thick) to ensure uniform cooking.
Soak the Fries: Place the cut sweet potatoes in a bowl of cold water and soak for 30–60 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps the fries crisp up better in the air fryer.
Dry Completely: Drain and pat the sweet potato sticks thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Any excess moisture will make the fries soggy.
Coat with Cornstarch: Toss the sweet potato sticks in cornstarch until evenly coated. This creates a light outer layer that enhances crispiness.
Season and Oil: Add olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until the fries are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.
Cook the Fries: Arrange the sweet potato fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each fry. Cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Serve Immediately: Once the fries are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve hot.
2. Tips for Perfect Crispy Sweet Potato Fries in Air fryer
Achieving perfectly crispy air fryer sweet potato fries is all about technique. Here are some essential tips and why they matter:
Cut Evenly: Cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform sticks ensures they cook evenly. Thicker pieces can turn out undercooked while thinner ones might burn.
Soak in Cold Water: Soaking removes excess starch, which can cause fries to clump together and become soggy. This step helps achieve that crispy exterior we all love.
Dry Thoroughly: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Patting the fries dry after soaking ensures the cornstarch and oil adhere properly.
Use Cornstarch: Cornstarch creates a light, crispy coating on the outside of the fries. It’s the secret to achieving the perfect crunch without deep frying.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers need space for air circulation to crisp the fries evenly. Cook in small batches if needed.
Shake or Flip Halfway: Tossing the fries halfway through cooking ensures they brown evenly on all sides.
Serve Immediately: Sweet potato fries taste best when they are fresh and crispy. Letting them sit too long can cause them to soften.
3. What to Serve: Dipping Sauce Ideas for Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some crowd-favorite options:
Garlic Aioli: A creamy blend of mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
Chipotle Mayo: Spicy and smoky, made with mayonnaise, chipotle peppers, and a touch of lime.
Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, combining honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of vinegar.
Cilantro Lime Yogurt Dip: A refreshing option made with Greek yogurt, lime juice, and fresh cilantro.
Sriracha Ketchup: A simple mix of ketchup and Sriracha for a spicy twist.
Maple Cinnamon Dip: Sweet and warm, made with Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and a hint of cinnamon.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing Sweet Potato Fries:
Allow the fries to cool completely before storing them. Placing hot fries in a container can trap steam and make them soggy.
Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating Sweet Potato Fries:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Heat for 3–5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the fries are warmed and crispy again.
Avoid microwaving sweet potato fries, as this can make them soft and unappetizing.
Sweet potato fries made in the air fryer are a game-changer. With the right techniques and a little care, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful fries perfect for any occasion. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce and savor every bite!
