Emilie Meyer
Sweet potatoes are a versatile and affordable food that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the best ways to cook them is by roasting them, as it brings out their natural sweetness. Using an air fryer is a convenient way to roast sweet potatoes, as it is quicker than using an oven. This text will discuss how to cook sweet potato cubes in an air fryer, including preparation, cooking time, and seasoning options.
How to cook sweet potato cubes in an air fryer
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cook time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cook temperature | 400°F (200°C) |
| Potato type | Garnet, Jewel, Japanese, orange, white, purple |
| Potato size | 1/2-inch to 1-inch cubes |
| Potato shape | Uniform cubes |
| Potato quantity | Depends on air fryer size; cook in batches if necessary |
| Oil | Avocado, olive, canola |
| Seasoning | Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, thyme, rosemary, chili powder |
| Additional ingredients | Bacon, parmesan |
| Serving suggestions | Salads, tacos, sandwiches, wraps, breakfast bowls, rice bowls |
| Storage | Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days |
| Reheating | Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes at 300-375°F |
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What You'll Learn
How to cut sweet potatoes into cubes
Sweet potatoes can be quite firm and hard to cut, so it's best to use a sharp chef's knife. If you don't have one, you can use a regular kitchen knife and a cheap electric sharpener to get it nice and sharp. You could also use a scissors-like cutter, which is easier than a knife.
First, wash the sweet potato. If you're not buying organic, it's best to peel the skin using a vegetable peeler. If you are buying organic, you can skip this step.
Next, cut the sweet potato in half so that it has a flat bottom and can rest safely on your cutting board. You can cut it into half crosswise, or lengthwise into three pieces, depending on the length of the sweet potato. This will give you a stable base to work with and prevent the potato from rolling over.
Now, you can start cutting the sweet potato into cubes. Place one portion vertically on the cutting board and make cuts about 1/2 inch in size. Then, lay each slice flat on the board and cut it into 1/2 inch cubes. Try to keep all the cubes a similar size so that they cook evenly.
If you're having trouble cutting the sweet potato, there are a few tricks you can try. You can microwave the sweet potato for a minute or two before peeling and slicing it to soften it slightly. Alternatively, you can wrap it in a damp paper towel or cover it with a wet paper towel and microwave it for a couple of minutes. This will make the sweet potato more malleable and easier to cut.
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How to season sweet potato cubes
Seasoning sweet potato cubes is an important step in the cooking process, as it adds flavour and helps to create a crispy exterior. You can season your sweet potato cubes with a variety of spices, oils and other ingredients.
Firstly, it is recommended to use oil when seasoning sweet potato cubes. Oil provides moisture and flavour to the sweet potatoes, and helps to create a crispy exterior. You can use a variety of oils, such as avocado oil, olive oil or canola oil. Use enough oil to coat the sweet potatoes and help the seasonings to stick.
Next, you can add a variety of seasonings to your sweet potato cubes. A simple option is to season them with salt and pepper. You can also add garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary or chilli powder for extra flavour. If you want to add a savoury element to your sweet potato cubes, you can include bacon and parmesan. Simply add three slices of chopped bacon and two tablespoons of grated parmesan to the sweet potatoes before cooking.
Additionally, you can try a secret step to enhance the flavour of your sweet potato cubes. Before adding your seasonings, place the cubed sweet potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with about a quarter of a cup of water. Microwave for two minutes, then stir and microwave for another two minutes. This will make the potatoes fork-tender and help the seasonings to absorb.
Finally, once you have added your seasonings, use a fork to stir the sweet potato cubes aggressively for one to two minutes. This creates small nicks in the potatoes, which helps the seasonings to distribute evenly.
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How to cook sweet potato cubes in the air fryer
Ingredients
- 1 lb sweet potato
- 1 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil or avocado oil
- Spices, salt and pepper
Utensils
- Air fryer
- Vegetable peeler
- Sharp knife (chef's knife)
- Large mixing bowl
- Microwave-safe bowl (optional)
- Fork
Method
First, wash and peel your sweet potatoes. Cut each potato in half crosswise, then slice each half lengthwise into three planks. Lay each plank flat on a cutting board and cut lengthwise into 3 or 4 strips. Next, cut the strips into 1/2-inch cubes. Try to keep the cubes a similar size so they cook evenly.
Place the sweet potato chunks in a large mixing bowl and add the oil and spices, salt and pepper. Toss the cubes with a fork until they are well coated with the seasoning.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Add the sweet potato cubes to the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if necessary. Air fry for 10–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. The potatoes are done when they are golden, tender and crispy.
For an extra step that will make your sweet potato cubes even better, add them to a microwave-safe bowl with 1/4 cup of water and microwave for 2 minutes. Stir, then microwave for another 2 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender, not mushy.
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How to store and reheat sweet potato cubes
To store sweet potato cubes, place them in an airtight container or zip-top plastic bag and seal them shut. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days.
To reheat sweet potato cubes in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350-400°F. Cut the sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Toss them in oil to coat (optional). Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer and air fry for 3-12 minutes, tossing halfway, until heated through. Check frequently to avoid burning and season as desired.
You can also reheat sweet potato cubes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350-400°F. Place the sweet potato cubes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For crispy skins, leave them uncovered and bake for 10-15 minutes. Check frequently to avoid overcooking. Pierce with a fork to test for doneness. Season with salt, pepper, brown sugar, or maple syrup as desired.
Another option is to reheat sweet potato cubes on the stovetop. Start by slicing the sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes. Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil or butter. Once the pan is hot, add the sweet potato cubes and cook for a few minutes on each side until they're heated through and lightly browned.
Finally, you can reheat sweet potato cubes in the microwave. Place them in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes. If reheating mashed sweet potatoes in the microwave, place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through, stirring between intervals.
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Health benefits of sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a versatile root vegetable that can be prepared in both sweet and savoury dishes. They are packed with nutrients and offer a range of health benefits. Here are some reasons why you should consider adding them to your diet:
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, potassium, and zinc. Just one sweet potato provides 102% of the vitamin A you need daily, which is great for maintaining healthy eyes, a robust immune system, and healthy reproductive organs.
High in Antioxidants
Sweet potatoes, especially the orange and purple varieties, are rich in antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals. These antioxidants help prevent cell damage and reduce inflammation, promoting healthy eye, retinal, and brain health.
Good Source of Fiber
Sweet potatoes contain two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Fiber aids digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and supports the growth of healthy gut bacteria. A fiber-rich diet that includes sweet potatoes can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering cholesterol formation.
Anticancer Properties
The carotenoids and anthocyanins in sweet potatoes have been linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers, including colorectal cancer. The antioxidants in sweet potatoes can repair free radical damage to cells, which is a critical step in preventing cancer development.
Diabetes Management
Compounds in sweet potatoes can help control blood sugar levels. When boiled, sweet potatoes have a low glycemic index, meaning they don't cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. However, cooking methods like baking, roasting, or frying can increase their glycemic index, so individuals with type 2 diabetes should consult a doctor or dietitian about safe preparation methods.
Now, for a quick guide on how to cook sweet potato cubes in an air fryer, here are the steps:
- Wash, peel, and cut the sweet potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes.
- Place the cubes in a bowl and add a small amount of oil (such as avocado or olive oil) and your desired seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.). Toss well to coat.
- Preheat your air fryer to around 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Spread the sweet potato cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they aren't overcrowded.
- Air fry for 10-14 minutes, shaking the basket once or twice during cooking for even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve as a side dish or add to your favourite meals like breakfast bowls, salads, or tacos!
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Frequently asked questions
First, wash and peel the sweet potato. Then, chop the sweet potato in half. Next, slice each half lengthwise into three planks. Lay each plank flat and cut lengthwise into 3 or 4 strips. Finally, chop the strips into cubes.
The cubes should be around 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch squares. This ensures the sweet potatoes cook evenly.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Air fry for 10-15 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through for even cooking and crispiness.
You can season the sweet potato cubes with olive oil, avocado oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You can also get creative with spices like paprika, oregano, thyme, rosemary, or chili powder.
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