Craving a crunchy, tasty snack? Let me show you how to make Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries that are crispy and full of flavor! These fries are easy to prepare and healthier than regular fries. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious treat that satisfies your snack cravings. Ready to dive in? Let’s get those sweet potatoes cooking!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
To make these crispy air fryer sweet potato fries, you will need:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into even fry shapes
– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon sea salt
– ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ingredients if needed. Here are some ideas:
– Sweet Potatoes: Try using regular potatoes or butternut squash for a twist.
– Olive Oil: Use canola or avocado oil if you prefer.
– Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works too.
– Cayenne Pepper: You can leave this out for a milder flavor.
Recommended Seasonings
Seasonings add great flavor to the fries. Here are my favorites:
– Smoked Paprika: It gives a nice smoky taste.
– Garlic Powder: This adds a savory kick.
– Onion Powder: It enhances the overall flavor.
– Sea Salt: Don’t skip this; it makes everything better.
– Fresh Parsley: Use it as a garnish for color and freshness.
These ingredients and substitutions can help you create a tasty and crispy snack that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Sweet Potatoes
To start, you must soak your sweet potato fries. Place them in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This soaking helps remove excess starch. Less starch means crispier fries! After the time is up, drain the fries well. Next, spread them on a clean kitchen towel. Pat them dry thoroughly to get rid of any moisture. This step is key for crispiness.
Seasoning the Fries
Now it’s time to add flavor. In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry sweet potato fries with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can adjust the cayenne for spice levels. Toss everything well to coat each fry evenly. You want every bite to burst with flavor.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Before cooking, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This is crucial for that perfect crispy texture. Arrange the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd them. If needed, cook in two batches to allow air to circulate. Cook the fries for 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Check for your preferred crispiness. If they need more time, add 2-5 extra minutes. Once done, carefully remove the fries and place them on a paper towel for a minute. This helps absorb any extra oil. Just before serving, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful sweet potato fries!
Tips & Tricks
Soaking for Crispiness
Soaking sweet potato fries in cold water is a game-changer. It removes excess starch. Less starch means crispier fries. I recommend soaking them for at least 30 minutes. This step is key to getting that perfect crunch you want.
Optimal Cooking Temps and Times
For the best results, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). This ensures the fries start cooking right away. Cooking them for 15-20 minutes gives a nice crisp. Don’t forget to shake the basket halfway through. This helps them cook evenly. If they need more time, add 2-5 minutes. Always check to avoid burning.
Ensuring Even Cooking
To ensure even cooking, arrange fries in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket. If you have a lot, cook them in batches. This allows hot air to circulate freely. The result? Perfectly crispy sweet potato fries every time!
Variations
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries
To kick up the heat, add more cayenne pepper. Try ½ teaspoon for extra spice. You can also mix in chili powder or crushed red pepper for more flavor. These spicy fries pair well with creamy dips, like ranch or blue cheese.
Sweet and Savory Options
For a sweet twist, sprinkle brown sugar or cinnamon on the fries. The sweetness balances the natural earthiness of sweet potatoes. Another option is to add maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. This will create a delicious contrast with the savory seasonings.
Alternative Oils and Seasonings
If you want to switch oils, use avocado oil or coconut oil. Both oils add unique flavors and health benefits. For seasonings, try adding rosemary or thyme for a fresh herbal taste. You can also use Parmesan cheese for a cheesy, savory touch that melts into the fries.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Leftovers
After you enjoy your sweet potato fries, store any leftovers in a container. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture. This helps prevent sogginess. Store the container in your fridge. The fries will stay good for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, use your air fryer for the best results. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the fries in a single layer in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. This will help restore their crispiness. You can also use an oven set to 400°F (200°C) if needed.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to freeze your sweet potato fries, start by letting them cool. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer the fries to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to cook, you can air fry them straight from the freezer. Adjust the cooking time for best results.
FAQs
How long to air fry sweet potato fries?
You should air fry sweet potato fries for about 15 to 20 minutes. This timing allows the fries to become crispy and golden. I recommend checking them halfway through. Give the basket a shake to help them cook evenly. If they are not crispy enough, add an extra 2 to 5 minutes.
Can I use frozen sweet potato fries?
Yes, you can use frozen sweet potato fries. They are a quick and easy option. Make sure to check the package for cooking times, as they may differ from fresh fries. You may not need to soak or season them as much. However, for extra flavor, drizzle them with olive oil and spices before cooking.
How do I make sweet potato fries crispier?
To make your sweet potato fries crispier, soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch. After soaking, dry them well with towels. The less moisture, the crispier they will be. Toss them in olive oil and spices evenly. Cook in a single layer in the air fryer for the best results. Make sure to shake the basket halfway during cooking to ensure even crispiness.
This blog post covered how to make air-fried sweet potato fries perfectly. We discussed ingredients, seasonings, and cooking steps. I shared tips for getting crispy fries and suggested tasty variations. Proper storage and reheating methods were also included.
Overall, these fries are a fun and tasty treat. Try them in different ways to find what you love most. Enjoy your cooking!
