Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: Quick, Healthy, Crispy Treat

Sweet potato fries are a tasty, healthier alternative to regular fries, and can be made in an air fryer with minimal oil. The cooking time depends on the temperature and the specific air fryer being used, but generally, it takes around 10-20 minutes to cook sweet potato fries in an air fryer.

How to cut sweet potato fries

Preparation

Before cutting your sweet potatoes, it's important to clean them thoroughly. Hold each one under a running faucet and scrub the skin with cold water to remove any dirt. You can use a vegetable peeler to peel the potatoes if you prefer, but it's not necessary as the skin is packed with nutrients. Just be sure to give them a good scrub if you plan to leave the skin on.

Cutting

When cutting your sweet potatoes, it's important to use a sharp knife and to work on a sturdy, flat cutting board. The exact dimensions of your fries can vary, but generally, you'll want to cut your potatoes into thin matchsticks or wedges. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Cut off about 1 inch from both ends of the potato.
• Roll the potato on a flat surface to find the flattest, most stable side.
• Place the potato horizontally on the cutting board with the flat side down.
• Cut the potato lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick planks.
• Stack two planks together and cut them lengthwise into 1/2-inch thick sticks.
• Repeat this process until you've cut up all your potatoes.

For wedges:

• Cut the potato in half crosswise.
• Cut each half in half lengthwise.
• Cut each piece in half lengthwise again to create long wedges.

Tips

• Choose potatoes that are similar in size and have a good long shape for the most even results.
• Try to cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure consistent cooking.
• If you want crispier fries, cut them into thinner matchsticks.

How to season sweet potato fries

Preparation

Before seasoning your sweet potato fries, you will need to peel and cut the sweet potatoes into fries of your desired thickness. The thickness will depend on how crispy you want your fries to be. Thinner fries will be crispier, while thicker fries will be softer in the centre.

Seasoning

There are many ways to season your sweet potato fries, depending on your taste preferences. Here are some suggestions:

• Smoked paprika: For a smokey flavour.
• Cayenne pepper: To make the fries spicy.
• Cajun seasoning: For a kick of spice and a unique flavour profile.
• Cinnamon or pumpkin spice: For a sweet, rather than savoury, flavour.
• Italian seasoning and Parmesan: For a cheesy, herby flavour.
• Cinnamon and brown sugar: For an indulgent, sweet treat.

Oil

You can use any oil you like to season your sweet potato fries. However, it is recommended to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or canola oil. Olive oil is also a good option, as it adds flavour to the fries.

Method

Place the cut sweet potato fries into a large mixing bowl and drizzle with your chosen oil. Sprinkle your chosen seasoning over the fries and toss the bowl until each fry is well-coated.

Cooking

Once you have seasoned your sweet potato fries, you can cook them in an air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to around 380°F and place the fries into the basket, ensuring they are spread out in an even layer and do not overlap. Cook for around 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

Serving

Serve your sweet potato fries immediately with your favourite dipping sauce. Enjoy!

How long to cook sweet potato fries in an air fryer

The length of time you should cook sweet potato fries in an air fryer depends on the temperature and the specific model of the air fryer. On average, it takes between 10 to 20 minutes to cook sweet potato fries in an air fryer.

Steps to make sweet potato fries in an air fryer:

• Cut the sweet potatoes into fries of even thickness.
• Soak the sweet potato fries in cold water for 10 to 60 minutes to improve crispiness (optional).
• Drain the fries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
• Place the sweet potatoes in a large mixing bowl and toss them with olive oil, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
• Preheat the air fryer to a temperature between 350°F to 400°F.
• Place the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer to ensure even cooking. If your basket is not big enough, cook the fries in batches.
• Cook the sweet potato fries for 10 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
• Serve immediately with your favourite dipping sauce.

Tips for making sweet potato fries in an air fryer:

• Cut the sweet potatoes into even sizes to ensure they cook at the same time.
• Don't overcrowd the basket. Cook the fries in batches if needed to allow air to circulate and achieve a crispy texture.
• Turn the sweet potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Preheat the air fryer for the best results.
• Experiment with different spices and seasonings to find your favourite flavour.

Storing and reheating instructions:

• Store leftover sweet potato fries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
• Reheat the fries in the air fryer to ensure crispiness. You can also reheat them in the microwave or toaster oven, but they may become soft.

Oil usage:

Using oil is not necessary, but it will improve the flavour and crispiness of the fries. If you prefer not to use oil, coat your air fryer basket with non-stick spray or use an oil alternative.

How to store sweet potato fries

Storing sweet potato fries is a simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure they stay fresh and tasty. Here is a detailed guide on how to store your sweet potato fries:

Storing Cooked Sweet Potato Fries

If you have cooked your sweet potato fries, you can store them in an airtight container, such as a plastic container or a zip-top bag. Place them in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. To reheat them, you can use an air fryer, a toaster oven, or a microwave, although they may become soft if heated in the microwave.

Storing Raw Sweet Potato Fries

If you are storing raw sweet potato fries, it is important to not rinse them first as the extra moisture can lead to rotting. Instead, use a dry cloth to remove any dirt. You can also cure your raw sweet potatoes by putting them in a warm and humid environment (around 80°F with 90% humidity) for 1 to 2 weeks. This process increases their flavour and sweetness while creating a protective skin that guards against scratches and bruising.

Freezing Sweet Potato Fries

You can also freeze your sweet potato fries to make them last longer. To do this, you will first need to blanch them. Blanching involves boiling the sweet potatoes for a short time and then plunging them into ice water. This helps preserve their nutrients, colour, and texture. After blanching, spread the fries on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they are frozen solid. Finally, transfer the frozen fries to a labelled freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Your sweet potato fries can now be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.

How to reheat sweet potato fries

To reheat sweet potato fries in an air fryer, first preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place your leftover fries in the air fryer and cook them for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crisped to your liking. Be sure to shake the basket halfway through the reheating process.

Reheating sweet potato fries in an air fryer is a great way to restore their crispiness and make them taste freshly cooked again. You can also reheat them in a toaster oven or in the microwave, but they will be softer if heated in the microwave.

Frequently asked questions