Sweet Potato Fries: Air Fryer Magic!

Cooking frozen sweet potato fries in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious snack or side dish. This cooking method is healthier than deep frying, as it uses less oil, and the results are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

Choosing the right brand of frozen sweet potato fries

When choosing the right brand of frozen sweet potato fries, there are a few factors to consider. The most important factor is taste. You want to look for a brand that has a good balance of sweetness and savouriness, with a hint of salt to enhance the flavours. The fries should also be well-seasoned and have a robust sweet potato flavour. In addition, the best frozen sweet potato fries will have a crispy texture, similar to that of a fried potato.

• Ore-Ida Straight Cut Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a crispy crunch and a creamy interior, with a nice sweet potato flavour. They are a good option for those who want a traditional fry shape.
• Alexia Waffle Cut Sweet Potato Fries: The waffle shape allows these fries to crisp up well and makes them perfect for dipping. They are also seasoned with a blend of spices, including garlic, onion, chilli pepper and cumin, giving them a unique flavour.
• McCain Sweet Potato Crinkle Fries: These fries have a vibrant orange hue and a hint of salt in the recipe. They are slightly less crispy than the other options but can be cooked for a few extra minutes to achieve the desired texture.
• Trader Joe's Sweet Potato Fries: These fries offer a good balance of sweetness and savouriness, making them a great option for those who are not huge fans of sweet potatoes or for feeding pickier eaters. They are also affordable, costing just over $2.50 for a 15-ounce bag.
• Ore-Ida Sweet Potato Crinkle-Cut Fries: These fries have a creamy interior and a crisp crust that provides a nice crunch. They are well-seasoned and have a naturally sweet flavour that is not too overpowering.
• Sprouts Farmers Market Straight-Cut Sweet Potato Fries: These fries are thin and crispy, similar to shoestring fries. They have a great sweet potato flavour that is lightly sweet and not artificial-tasting.

How to prepare the air fryer basket

Preparing the air fryer basket is a crucial step in making delicious frozen sweet potato fries. Here's a detailed guide on how to do it:

Before placing anything in the basket, it's important to preheat your air fryer. Most recipes recommend preheating the air fryer to around 360-400°F. This step ensures even cooking and helps to achieve that desired crispiness.

Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to prepare the basket. Start by greasing the basket with a high heat oil, such as avocado oil, or using an oil spray. This step is important to prevent sticking and ensure your fries don't end up soggy. You can use a silicone basting brush to apply the oil evenly, or simply spray the basket with an oil mister. Avoid using aerosol spray cans as these can cause premature rusting.

Now, it's time to arrange the frozen sweet potato fries in the basket. Place them in a single layer, ensuring they are close together but not touching. This arrangement allows for even cooking and prevents overcrowding, which can lead to a steaming effect instead of the desired crispiness. If you're cooking a large batch, you might need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

At this point, you can also season your fries. A simple sprinkle of salt is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning. A light dusting of cayenne pepper adds a hint of spice that balances the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Once you have your fries arranged and seasoned, they're ready to be cooked! Place the basket in the preheated air fryer and follow the cooking instructions provided in your chosen recipe. Remember to shake the basket periodically during cooking to ensure even cooking and that perfect crispiness.

By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to enjoying delicious, crispy frozen sweet potato fries from your air fryer!

How long to cook the fries for

The cooking time for frozen sweet potato fries in an air fryer varies depending on the specific model and the desired level of crispness. However, on average, they take around 10 to 20 minutes to cook.

For example, one source recommends cooking the fries at 390 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket two to three times during the cooking process. Another source suggests cooking the fries at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

It is important to note that the cooking time may also depend on the thickness of the fries. For instance, shoestring fries, being thinner, will take less time to cook. Additionally, the cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the brand of frozen sweet potato fries used, as different brands may vary in terms of ingredients and thickness.

To ensure even cooking, it is recommended to cook the fries in a single layer, or with minimal overlap, in the air fryer basket. It is also important not to overcrowd the basket to prevent steaming instead of crisping. If cooking a large batch, it is advisable to cook the fries in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding.

How to get the right level of crispness

The crispiness of your sweet potato fries depends on a few factors: the thickness of the fries, the temperature of the air fryer, the cooking time, and the use of oil.

Firstly, the thickness of the fries matters. For crispier fries, cut them thinly, around 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch thick. Thinner fries will also cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Secondly, preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 360°F and 400°F. A higher temperature will reduce cooking time but may burn the ends of the fries. It is recommended to cook the fries at 390°F for 15-20 minutes or at 400°F for 7-8 minutes.

Thirdly, for even cooking and to achieve the desired crispness, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the fries in batches if needed, and shake the basket a few times during cooking to ensure even browning.

Finally, the use of oil will impact the crispiness of the fries. While some recipes suggest brushing or spraying the fries with oil for extra crispness, others recommend against adding oil, especially if the frozen fries already contain oil. If your fries look dry, you can add a small amount of oil halfway through cooking.

What to serve with the fries

Sweet potato fries are a versatile side dish that can be paired with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas on what to serve with your air-fried frozen sweet potato fries to make a delicious and balanced meal:

For a classic combination, serve your sweet potato fries with a juicy burger. Go for a classic beef patty or mix things up with a turkey, lamb, or veggie burger. Don't forget to add your favorite toppings and a soft brioche bun. If you're in the mood for something spicy, why not try a black bean burger with a kick of chili? Serve with a side of crispy, cool iceberg lettuce, sliced tomato, and a tangy special sauce.

Alternatively, you could go for a more sophisticated option and serve your fries with a steak. A well-seared ribeye or sirloin cooked to your liking will provide a juicy, savory contrast to the sweet potato. Top your steak with a compound butter, such as a garlic and herb butter, for an extra indulgent touch. Don't forget to rest your steak before serving to ensure it's nice and tender.

If you're looking for something a little lighter, a crispy salad can be a great companion to sweet potato fries. Try a classic Cobb salad with roast chicken, avocado, blue cheese, and a red wine vinaigrette. Or, for a more seasonal option, a warm autumnal salad with roasted Brussels sprouts, cranberries, pecans, and a maple vinaigrette. Add some grilled shrimp or chicken to your salad for a more substantial meal.

For a heartier option, serve your sweet potato fries with a bowl of chili. A spicy beef chili with kidney beans and a hint of cinnamon will warm you up from the inside out. Or, for a vegetarian option, try a three-bean chili with black beans, kidney beans, and butter beans. Top your chili with shredded cheese, diced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream for a tasty and filling meal.

Finally, for a fun and casual option, create a loaded fry platter. Top your sweet potato fries with cheese, bacon bits, chopped scallions, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. Add some diced tomatoes or avocado for a fresh contrast. This is a great option for a game day snack or a casual get-together with friends.

Remember to consider the flavors and textures of your main course when deciding what to serve with your sweet potato fries to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions