Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

I still remember the first time I baked these golden, crispy sweet potato fries. The kitchen was filled with the warm aroma of smoked paprika and garlic, and I realized snacks could be both healthy and utterly addicting.

One evening when unexpected guests arrived, these fries saved the day. Crispy, flavorful, and ready in under an hour, they felt like homemade magic.

Ingredients

• Sweet Potatoes: I like to choose large, firm ones about 800 g each for even cooking and perfect texture
• Cornstarch: This is the secret crisp-maker; I always opt for gluten-free arrowroot powder when needed
• Olive Oil: Adds richness but be sure not to overdo it to keep fries crisp
• Smoked Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky warmth that makes these fries truly special
• Garlic Powder, Sea Salt, Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that bring everything together beautifully
• Optional Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herby note just before serving

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure nothing sticks and fries bake evenly.

Cut and Soak:

Slice the sweet potatoes into uniform 0.5 cm sticks to cook evenly. Soaking them in cold water for 30 minutes helps pull out moisture, leading to crispier fries.

Season and Toss:

Drain and dry the fries thoroughly. Toss them with cornstarch, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper until every fry is perfectly coated and ready to bake.

Arrange and Bake:

Spread fries in a single layer, making sure they don't touch each other to let the hot air crisp every side. Bake for 15 minutes, flip and rotate the trays, then bake another 12 to 15 minutes until you see those golden edges start to appear.

Finish and Serve:

Remove from oven and while still warm, sprinkle with extra sea salt and chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve them hot for the best crunch and flavor.

Save

This dish quickly became more than just a snack; it turned into a comforting ritual on chilly evenings and a crowd-pleaser at every casual party I hosted.

Keeping It Fresh

If you want to enjoy these fries later, store them in an airtight container and reheat in a hot oven to restore their crisp rather than microwaving, which tends to soften them.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pair these fries with homemade aioli, spicy ketchup, or even a tangy yogurt dip. They also complement grilled meats or a fresh green salad beautifully.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

I remember one busy weeknight when nothing seemed to come together, but this recipe was quick, reliable, and satisfying enough to turn the evening around

• Don't forget to flip your fries halfway through baking for even crispiness
• If you want some heat, a pinch of chili powder does wonders
• Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking

Save

Thanks for hanging out and chatting about fries with me; I hope your kitchen fills with the same joy and aroma soon.

Common Questions

→ How do you achieve crispy sweet potato fries without frying?

Coating the cut sweet potatoes with cornstarch and baking them on a lined tray at high heat ensures a crisp exterior while keeping the inside tender.

→ Why soak sweet potato sticks before baking?

Soaking removes excess starch and helps the fries crisp up more evenly and thoroughly during baking.

→ Can alternatives to cornstarch be used?

Yes, arrowroot powder is a great gluten-free alternative that also enhances crispiness.

→ What seasonings complement sweet potato fries?

Smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper provide a well-rounded, savory flavor profile.

→ What serving suggestions pair well with these fries?

They work well as a side dish or snack with dips like aioli, ketchup, or spicy sauces. Fresh parsley adds a bright finishing touch.

→ Are these fries suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, using gluten-free cornstarch or arrowroot powder keeps the fries gluten-free.