Sweet Potato Air Fryer Times And Temperatures

Cooking sweet potatoes in an air fryer is a quick and convenient way to prepare this nutritious vegetable. The cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of the sweet potato, as well as the temperature setting of the air fryer. On average, sweet potatoes take between 10 to 20 minutes to cook in an air fryer, with some larger potatoes taking up to 50 minutes.

How long does it take to air fry sweet potatoes?

Air-frying sweet potatoes is a quick and easy way to cook them, and they can be ready in as little as 10 minutes. However, the cooking time can vary depending on the size and type of sweet potatoes, as well as the specific air fryer being used.

As a general rule, whole sweet potatoes will take longer to cook than diced or cubed sweet potatoes. For example, diced sweet potatoes may only need 7 to 12 minutes, while cubed sweet potatoes will take 12 to 15 minutes, and whole sweet potatoes can take anywhere from 20 to 50 minutes.

It's also important to note that different air fryers have different capacities and performances, so the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly. For example, some sources suggest cooking sweet potatoes at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, while others recommend 370°F for 35 to 45 minutes.

Additionally, the cooking time will depend on the desired level of doneness. For a crispier texture, air fry for a couple of extra minutes.

When cooking sweet potatoes in an air fryer, it's best to arrange them in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the basket. If necessary, cook the sweet potatoes in batches.

• Poke holes in the sweet potatoes before air frying to prevent them from bursting.
• Do not wrap sweet potatoes in tin foil when air frying as it can soften the skin and yield soggy potatoes.
• Shake the air fryer basket a few times during cooking to ensure even cooking.
• If desired, toss the sweet potatoes with oil and seasonings before air frying for added flavour.

How to serve baked sweet potatoes

There are many ways to serve baked sweet potatoes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Simple Options

The simplest way to enjoy a baked sweet potato is to add a pat of butter or a drizzle of coconut oil. You can also try a sprinkle of chilli powder, cumin, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice.

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

For a heartier meal, try stuffing your sweet potato with a variety of fillings. Some tasty options include chicken enchilada, loaded vegetarian, or Italian-inspired fillings.

Salads and Tacos

Baked sweet potatoes also make a great addition to salads and tacos. Try adding them to a rice bowl or burrito bowl with beans and corn and other toppings.

Seasoning Ideas

If you're looking for some extra flavour, try seasoning your sweet potatoes with red chilli powder, paprika, curry powder, cumin, or garam masala. For a sweeter option, add cinnamon and honey, or brown sugar and maple syrup.

Side Dishes

Baked sweet potatoes can be a delicious side dish for a range of meals. Try serving them alongside a protein of your choice, such as salmon fillets or chicken.

Snacks

Sweet potatoes are also a great snack option. You can cut them into fries or wedges and season them with your favourite spices. Enjoy them as a healthy snack or serve them at your next party!

Tips for the perfect air fryer sweet potatoes

Choosing the Right Sweet Potato

Look for sweet potatoes with firm, unbruised skin and as few wrinkles as possible. Avoid soft spots, cracks, and discolouration. Orange-skinned sweet potatoes are a good option for roasting, as they tend to be moist, sweet, and creamy.

Storage

Before cooking, store sweet potatoes in a cool, dry, dark, and well-ventilated place for no more than five weeks.

Preparation

Wash the sweet potatoes and peel them, unless they are organic. Cut them into equal-sized cubes, as this will ensure they cook evenly. Pierce the sweet potatoes all over with a fork before air frying.

Seasoning

Coat the sweet potato cubes in olive or avocado oil, and season with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or cinnamon for extra flavour.

Air Frying

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the sweet potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. If you are cooking whole sweet potatoes, they will take longer—around 35-45 minutes.

Serving

Air fryer sweet potatoes go well with butter, coconut oil, or a sprinkle of chilli powder, cumin, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice. You can also stuff them with different fillings, such as chicken, beans, or vegetables.

How to roast sweet potatoes in the air fryer

Roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious and healthy snack, and cooking them in an air fryer is much quicker and more convenient than using an oven. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfectly roasted sweet potatoes every time.

Ingredients:

• Sweet potatoes (look for firm ones with minimal wrinkles, bruises, or discolourations)
• Olive oil or avocado oil (butter can also be used as a topping)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, ground ginger, cinnamon, honey, etc.

Utensils:

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Fork

Method:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
• Cut the sweet potatoes into equal-sized cubes or chunks, roughly 1/2-inch to 1-inch in size.
• Poke holes in the sweet potato cubes with a fork.
• In a mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato cubes with oil, salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings. Ensure they are well coated.
• Place the seasoned sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer; cook in batches if necessary.
• Air fry for 10-12 minutes for cubes or 18-20 minutes for whole sweet potatoes. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking process for even cooking.
• For a crispier texture, add a couple of extra minutes.
• Remove the sweet potatoes from the air fryer and let them sit for a few minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Sweet potatoes can be served as a side dish or added to salads, tacos, rice bowls, or wraps.
• They are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheat leftover sweet potatoes in the air fryer or microwave.

How to cut sweet potatoes for roasting

The first step in preparing sweet potatoes for roasting is to wash and peel them. You can skip the peeling step if you are using organic sweet potatoes. A peeler can be used to remove the skin.

Next, cut the sweet potatoes into halves or thirds, depending on their length. Then, place one portion vertically on the cutting board and cut it into slices about 1/2 inch thick. Repeat this process for the remaining portions.

Once you have sliced all the sweet potatoes, lay each slice flat on the cutting board and cut them into 1/2 inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes a similar size so that they cook evenly.

Now your sweet potatoes are ready for roasting! You can season them with avocado or olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, or any other spices and herbs of your choice. Toss the sweet potatoes well to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasoning.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the seasoned sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes for the perfect texture, shaking the basket halfway through.

If you prefer your sweet potatoes more crunchy, add a couple of extra minutes of cooking time. And that's it! You now have perfectly roasted sweet potatoes with a crispy exterior and tender interior. Enjoy!

Frequently asked questions