Air-Fryer Sweet Potatoes: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and potassium. They are also lower in calories than regular potatoes. You can cook sweet potatoes in an air fryer in a variety of ways, including as fries, wedges, cubes, or baked. Air frying sweet potatoes is much quicker than baking them in an oven, and it also produces a crispier result.

How to cut sweet potatoes for air frying

Yes, you can put sweet potatoes in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut sweet potatoes for air frying:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Sweet Potato

First, select the right sweet potatoes. Look for firm potatoes without bruises, discolourations, or soft spots. If you plan to peel the potatoes, the variety doesn't matter. However, if you want to keep the skin on, choose orange-skinned sweet potatoes, which tend to be moist, sweet, and creamy.

Step 2: Preparing the Sweet Potato

Wash the sweet potatoes to remove any dirt or residue. If you plan to peel the sweet potatoes, use a peeler to remove the skin. You can skip this step if you are using organic sweet potatoes, as the skin is edible.

Step 3: Cutting the Sweet Potato

Using a sharp chef's knife, cut the sweet potato into halves or thirds, depending on its length. Place one portion vertically on the cutting board and cut it into slices about 1/2-inch thick. Then, lay each slice flat and cut it into 1/2-inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes evenly sized to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Seasoning the Sweet Potato (Optional)

At this point, you can season the sweet potato cubes with your desired spices and oil. A simple combination of avocado oil or olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper works well. You can also experiment with other seasonings like paprika, chilli powder, cumin, or cinnamon. Toss the sweet potato cubes in a bowl with the oil and seasonings until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Arranging the Sweet Potato in the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Place the sweet potato cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the sweet potatoes in batches.

Now your sweet potatoes are ready to be air-fried! Follow the cooking instructions provided by your air fryer for the best results. Enjoy!

How long to cook sweet potatoes in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook sweet potatoes in an air fryer! The cooking time will depend on how you cut them and the size of the potatoes. Here is a general guide:

Whole Sweet Potatoes

Pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork before air frying. This is important to prevent them from bursting in the air fryer. Whole sweet potatoes will take 20 to 50 minutes to cook at 200C/400F. If you are cooking medium to large potatoes, you will need to increase the cooking time.

Diced Sweet Potatoes

Diced sweet potatoes will take 7 to 12 minutes to cook. If you are cooking in batches, the second batch may cook quicker as the air fryer will be hotter.

Cubed Sweet Potatoes

Cubed sweet potatoes will take 12 to 15 minutes to cook.

Tips for Cooking Sweet Potatoes in an Air Fryer

• You do not need to preheat the air fryer before cooking sweet potatoes.
• Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
• Shake the air fryer basket a few times during the cooking process to ensure the potatoes cook evenly.
• You can season the sweet potatoes with salt, pepper, olive oil, avocado oil, garlic powder, cinnamon, or any other spices you like.
• If you are short on time, you can microwave the sweet potatoes for a few minutes before finishing them off in the air fryer.

Happy cooking!

What temperature to cook sweet potatoes in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook sweet potatoes in an air fryer! The temperature and cooking time will depend on the type of sweet potato and the way you cut it. Here is a guide to help you cook your sweet potatoes to perfection.

Whole Sweet Potatoes

For whole sweet potatoes, the ideal temperature to bake them is 200C/400F. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the potatoes. Smaller potatoes will take around 18-20 minutes, while larger potatoes may need up to 50 minutes. To ensure even cooking, poke holes in the potatoes with a fork before placing them in the air fryer.

Diced Sweet Potatoes

For diced sweet potatoes, the cooking time will be shorter. At 400F, they will take around 7 to 12 minutes.

Cubed Sweet Potatoes

Similarly, cubed sweet potatoes will take around 12 to 15 minutes at 400F.

Sweet Potato Fries

If you're making sweet potato fries, a temperature of 380F is recommended. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your fries and the specific air fryer you are using. For 1/4-inch thick fries, 10 minutes should be enough. For thicker fries, you may need to add a minute or two of cooking time. Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.

Tips for Perfect Air-Fried Sweet Potatoes:

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Turn or shake the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
• Preheat your air fryer for best results.
• Cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking.
• Poke holes in whole sweet potatoes before air frying to prevent them from bursting.
• Avoid wrapping sweet potatoes in tin foil as it can soften the skin and yield soggy potatoes.

How to season sweet potatoes for air frying

Air-frying sweet potatoes is a quick and easy way to cook them, and they can be seasoned in a variety of ways. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season sweet potatoes for air frying:

Step 1: Choosing the Right Sweet Potato

When it comes to choosing the right sweet potato for air frying, look for firm potatoes with orange skin and flesh. These potatoes are typically moist, sweet, and creamy. Avoid potatoes with soft skin, wrinkles, cracks, or soft spots.

Step 2: Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut off the skinny ends and save them for another recipe. Then, cut the potatoes into your desired shape and size. For air frying, it is recommended to cut them into 1/2-inch cubes or fries. Try to keep the sizes as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Seasoning the Sweet Potatoes

Transfer the cut sweet potatoes to a large bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil, olive oil, or another oil of your choice. Then, add your desired seasonings. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with spices like garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cumin, coriander, curry powder, or cinnamon. Toss the potatoes well to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings.

Step 4: Air Frying the Sweet Potatoes

Preheat your air fryer to 380-400°F, following the manufacturer's instructions. Place the seasoned sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you prefer crispier potatoes, add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Step 5: Serving the Sweet Potatoes

Air-fried sweet potatoes can be served as a side dish, snack, or added to salads, tacos, rice bowls, and more. They are best served fresh, as they tend to soften as they cool. Enjoy!

How to store leftover air-fried sweet potatoes

Air-fried sweet potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, there are a few ways to store them to keep them tasty and fresh. Here are some tips on how to store leftover air-fried sweet potatoes:

Storing in the Refrigerator

Leftover sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about three to four days in the fridge. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 360°F for 1-2 minutes, or use an oven or microwave. However, note that microwaving the potatoes may make them softer.

Freezing Leftover Sweet Potatoes

If you have a large batch of leftover sweet potatoes, you can freeze them for later use. Place the cooked and cooled potatoes in a ziplock bag and store them in the freezer for up to six months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the air fryer or oven for a crispy texture.

Storing Seasoned or Fried Potatoes

If your leftover sweet potatoes are seasoned or fried, they can be stored in an airtight container and kept in a cool, dry place. Consume them within two days for the best taste and texture.

Storing Mashed Sweet Potatoes

If you have mashed your leftover sweet potatoes, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. You can also freeze mashed sweet potatoes for up to four months.

Remember, proper storage will ensure that your leftover air-fried sweet potatoes retain their flavour and texture, so make sure to follow these simple tips!

Frequently asked questions