Sweet Potato Air Fryer Perfection: Timing Is Everything

Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and delicious treat, packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and potassium. They can be enjoyed as a healthy snack or side dish, and cooking them in an air fryer is a quick and easy option. The cooking time for sweet potatoes in an air fryer varies depending on the size and type of potato, the temperature, and the desired texture. On average, it takes around 10 to 20 minutes to cook sweet potatoes in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender interior.

How to cut sweet potatoes for air frying

The first step in preparing sweet potatoes for air frying is to select potatoes that are firm, without bruises or discolourations. It is also important to note that the cooking time will vary depending on the thickness and size of the sweet potato pieces.

Begin by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. You can skip this step if you are using organic sweet potatoes, but be aware that the skin may not crisp up as much as the rest of the potato. Use a sharp chef's knife to cut the sweet potato into halves or thirds, depending on its length. Then, cut each piece vertically into slices about 1/2 inch thick. Place each slice flat on the cutting board and cut into 1/2 inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes a similar size so that they cook evenly.

For sweet potato fries, select medium-sized sweet potatoes that are not too long. After peeling the potatoes, cut off the skinny ends and then cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. From there, you can cut them into long slices and then into sticks about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. The thinner you cut them, the crispier they will be.

Once you have cut your sweet potatoes, you can season them and cook them in the air fryer at around 400°F for 10-12 minutes for cubes, or 12 minutes for fries, shaking the basket halfway through.

How long to air fry sweet potatoes

Air-frying sweet potatoes is a quick and easy way to cook them, and they come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The time it takes to air fry sweet potatoes depends on how you cut them and the size of the potatoes. Here is a general guide:

Whole Sweet Potatoes

For whole sweet potatoes, the air-frying time can range from 20 to 50 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. The ideal temperature to cook them is 200C/400F.

Diced Sweet Potatoes

Diced sweet potatoes will take less time to cook, ranging from 7 to 12 minutes.

Cubed Sweet Potatoes

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

Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges will take around 15 to 20 minutes to cook. It is important to cut the wedges to a similar thickness to ensure even cooking.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries will take around 10 to 14 minutes to cook.

Cooking Tips

• It is not necessary to soak sweet potatoes before air frying as they do not have the same amount of starch as regular white potatoes.
• Poke holes in the sweet potatoes before air frying to prevent them from bursting.
• Do not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook the sweet potatoes in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
• Preheating the air fryer is not necessary, but it may reduce the cooking time by a couple of minutes.
• For a crispy exterior, ensure the sweet potatoes are dry before placing them in the air fryer.

Air fryer sweet potato toppings

Air fryer sweet potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a snack. They can be enjoyed in both sweet and savoury ways, with a variety of toppings and seasonings. Here are some ideas for toppings to elevate your air fryer sweet potatoes:

Savoury Toppings

For a savoury take on air fryer sweet potatoes, try the following toppings:

• Sour cream
• Cheese
• Black beans
• Salsa
• Chives
• Butter
• Coconut oil
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Pumpkin spice

You can also stuff your sweet potatoes with savoury fillings. Some tasty options include:

• Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada
• Loaded Vegetarian Baked Sweet Potato
• Italian Stuffed Sweet Potato

Sweet Toppings

If you have more of a sweet tooth, try these toppings:

• Cinnamon
• Maple syrup
• Brown sugar
• Honey
• Pecans
• Mini marshmallows

Spicy Toppings

For a kick of heat, add some spice to your sweet potatoes:

• Red chilli powder
• Paprika
• Curry powder
• Turmeric
• Cumin
• Garam masala

Other Toppings

• Olive oil
• Avocado oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic powder
• Trader Joe's Chili Lime Seasoning

How to store and reheat sweet potatoes

Storing and reheating sweet potatoes is a straightforward process. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your leftover sweet potatoes.

Storing Sweet Potatoes

When storing sweet potatoes, there are a few key factors to consider:

• Raw vs. Cooked Sweet Potatoes: Raw sweet potatoes should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area. Avoid washing them before storing, as the extra moisture can lead to rotting. If you plan to eat them within a month, avoid refrigerating them, as it can affect their taste and texture. For cooked sweet potatoes, store them in a shallow airtight container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days.
• Curing: If you want to enhance the flavour and sweetness of raw sweet potatoes, you can cure them before storing. Curing involves keeping the sweet potatoes in a warm and humid environment (around 80°F with 90% humidity) for 1 to 2 weeks. This process creates a protective skin that guards against scratches and bruising.
• Freezing: While freezing is not ideal for raw sweet potatoes, it is an excellent option for extending the lifespan of cooked sweet potatoes. Freeze them in airtight containers or bags, and they will last for about 10 to 12 months.

Reheating Sweet Potatoes

There are several effective methods for reheating sweet potatoes:

• Microwave: Place your sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl, cover them, and heat for about 2-3 minutes. For whole potatoes, cut them in half to ensure even and faster heating. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each sweet potato in aluminium foil and place them on a sheet pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they are heated through. This method helps retain the original flavour and gives you a crispy skin.
• Stovetop: Slice the sweet potatoes into even rounds or cubes. Heat some oil or butter in a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the sweet potato pieces and cook for a few minutes on each side until heated and lightly browned. This method adds extra flavour and crispness to your potatoes.
• Air Fryer: Cut your potatoes into wedges or fries to reduce the cooking time. The air fryer will give your leftover potatoes a crispy texture while maintaining their sweet flavour.

What to serve with air fryer sweet potatoes

Air fryer sweet potatoes are a great side dish to any meal. They are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preference. Here are some ideas on what to serve with air fryer sweet potatoes:

Salads

Sweet potatoes can be a great addition to salads, providing a contrast in textures and flavours. Cut them into cubes or wedges and toss them with leafy greens, vegetables, and a tangy dressing. You can also add proteins like grilled chicken or tofu for a more substantial salad.

Tacos

Air fryer sweet potatoes are an excellent filling for tacos. Cut them into thin slices or strips and serve them in corn or flour tortillas with your favourite toppings such as salsa, guacamole, cheese, or sour cream. You can also add some beans or grilled meats to make them more hearty.

Snacks and Appetizers

Sweet potatoes can be enjoyed as a healthy snack or appetizer. Cut them into fries or wedges, and serve them with a dip or sauce on the side. You can also make sweet potato chips for a crunchy treat.

Main Courses

Sweet potatoes can be a delicious side dish to a variety of main courses. Serve them with grilled or roasted meats, such as chicken, pork chops, or lamb. They also go well with fish or vegetarian dishes like vegetable curry or lentil stew.

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes

You can also stuff sweet potatoes with various fillings. Some ideas include slow cooker chicken enchilada stuffed sweet potatoes, loaded vegetarian baked sweet potatoes, or Italian stuffed sweet potatoes. Get creative with your fillings and experiment with different flavours.

Toppings and Seasonings

When serving sweet potatoes, you can offer a variety of toppings and seasonings to enhance their flavour. Here are some options:

• Butter or coconut oil
• Chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, or pumpkin spice
• Sour cream, cheese, black beans, salsa, or chives
• Pecans, mini marshmallows, or brown sugar
• Maple syrup or honey

Feel free to experiment with different toppings and create your own unique combinations.

Frequently asked questions