Air Fryer Sweet Potato Jerky: A Tasty, Healthy Treat

how to make sweet potato jerky air fryer

Sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and slow-releasing carbohydrates, making them a nutritious option for any meal. In this article, we will explore how to make sweet potato jerky using an air fryer, a cooking appliance that has gained popularity for its convenience and ability to produce crispy, delicious results with less oil and faster cooking times compared to traditional frying methods.

Characteristics Values
Cook time 35-45 minutes
Temperature 370F
Preparation Poke holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper
Serving size 1 sweet potato
Calories 146 kcal
Carbohydrates 34 g
Protein 2.5 g
Fat 0.5 g
Sodium 93.5 mg
Fiber 5 g
Sugar 7 g

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How to make sweet potato jerky in an air fryer without it becoming soggy

To make sweet potato jerky in an air fryer without it becoming soggy, there are several steps you can take:

Firstly, ensure you cut the sweet potatoes into uniform-sized pieces. This will help them cook evenly, so you don't end up with some pieces being overcooked and others undercooked.

Secondly, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket or tray. Arrange the sweet potato pieces in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece. Overcrowding can restrict airflow, leading to uneven cooking and sogginess.

Thirdly, shake the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking on all sides. This is especially important if your air fryer doesn't have the ability to circulate air in a 360-degree pattern.

Additionally, you can try soaking the sweet potatoes in ice water before cooking. This helps to remove excess starch and promote crispiness. Make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after soaking to prevent moisture from causing sogginess.

Finally, don't forget to season the sweet potatoes! In addition to your preferred spices, salt will help draw out moisture and contribute to a crispy texture when air-fried.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your sweet potato jerky turns out crispy and delicious, without any sogginess!

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The ideal temperature for sweet potato jerky in an air fryer

The ideal temperature for making sweet potato jerky in an air fryer is between 160-180 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature range is suitable for dehydrating meat and creating a chewy texture.

When making sweet potato jerky, it is essential to cut the sweet potatoes into even slices, approximately 1/4-inch thick. The uniformity in size ensures that the sweet potato pieces cook evenly without burning or undercooking. Depending on the desired level of crispiness, you can choose between a quicker method that cooks in batches or a longer method that yields crispier results.

For the quicker method, preheat your air fryer to 380°F. Spray the air fryer basket with oil and toss the sweet potato slices with oil and your desired seasonings. Place the coated sweet potato slices in the air fryer basket without overcrowding and cook for about 12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

For the longer method, which yields crispier results, start by peeling and cutting the sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. Submerge the sweet potato slices in a large bowl of hot tap water for about 10 minutes. Drain the potatoes, pat them dry, and toss them with a small amount of oil and seasonings. Place the seasoned sweet potato slices in the air fryer basket (no preheating required) and air fry at 350°F for 8 minutes, then shake and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, increase the temperature to 380°F and cook for an additional 4 to 5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the sweet potato slices are golden brown and crisp.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the sweet potato slices, as well as your desired level of crispiness. Always keep an eye on your sweet potato jerky to prevent overcooking or burning.

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How to cut sweet potatoes for air fryer jerky

Sweet potatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways in an air fryer. Here is a detailed guide on how to cut them for air fryer jerky:

Firstly, it is important to select the right type of sweet potatoes. Look for sweet potatoes with firm skin and minimal wrinkles. Examples of suitable varieties include orange garnet potatoes, Japanese sweet potatoes, and Beauregard.

Before cutting, it is recommended to poke holes in the sweet potatoes using a fork. This step helps prevent them from bursting during the cooking process.

Now, let's get into the cutting techniques:

  • For sweet potato fries: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even 1/4-inch thick planks. Then, cut these planks into 1/4-inch thick fries. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
  • For baked sweet potatoes: You can cut them into dices or cubes. Diced sweet potatoes should be around 7-12 minutes in the air fryer, while cubed sweet potatoes will take 12-15 minutes.
  • For sweet potato chips or jerky: Slice the sweet potatoes into thin, uniform slices. A mandoline attachment on a food processor can help achieve this. Aim for a thickness of around 1/4 inch. Thinner slices may result in crispiness rather than the desired chewy texture.

In summary, the key to cutting sweet potatoes for air fryer jerky is to aim for uniformity in thickness, avoiding overcrowding in the air fryer basket, and adjusting cooking times based on the size and shape of your cuts.

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How long to cook sweet potato jerky in an air fryer

The cooking time for sweet potato jerky in an air fryer will depend on the size of the sweet potato slices and the desired crispiness of the jerky. Here are some general guidelines:

Method 1: Quicker Prep, Less Crispy

For this method, you will need to cook the sweet potato slices in batches as you don't need to preheat the air fryer. Air fry the slices at 380°F for about 12 minutes in 2 or 3 batches, depending on the size of your air fryer basket. Make sure to turn the slices or shake the basket halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

Method 2: Longer Prep, Crispier

This method yields crispier sweet potato jerky but requires a longer preparation time. First, peel the sweet potatoes and slice them into even 1/4-inch thick planks, and then cut those into 1/4-inch thick fries. Submerge the sweet potato slices in a large bowl of hot tap water and let them soak for 10 minutes. After draining and thoroughly drying the slices, toss them with a small amount of oil, and then place them in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 350°F and cook for 8 minutes, then shake and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Finally, increase the temperature to 380°F and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the jerky is golden brown and crisp.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Jerky:

  • Ensure all the sweet potato slices are the same size so that they cook evenly.
  • Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary, and place the slices in a single layer with enough airflow to get crispy.
  • Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

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How to store sweet potato jerky after cooking in an air fryer

Once you've made a batch of sweet potato jerky in your air fryer, you'll want to make sure it stays fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store your sweet potato jerky after cooking:

Firstly, allow the jerky to cool completely. Do not cover or store the jerky until it has cooled to room temperature. This is important to prevent moisture buildup, which can cause spoilage.

When the jerky is cooled, you'll want to transfer it to an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids are ideal. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the jerky. If you don't have an airtight container, a resealable plastic bag will also work.

It is recommended to store the sweet potato jerky in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or kitchen cabinet. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can affect the quality and texture of the jerky.

Properly stored, your sweet potato jerky should last for about one to two weeks. For longer-term storage, consider refrigerating the jerky, which can extend its shelf life by a few weeks. Place the airtight container in the refrigerator, ensuring it is clearly labelled and dated.

If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mould or an off smell, discard the jerky immediately. It is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to food safety.

Frequently asked questions

It depends on the size of the sweet potato pieces and the temperature setting of the air fryer, but it typically takes between 8 to 12 minutes at 400°F.

You can use any seasoning you like. Some popular options include harissa spice blend, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.

Look for sweet potatoes that don't have soft skin, wrinkles, cracks, or soft spots. The Red Garnet variety is a good option as it is less sweet than the more common Beauregard variety.

Wash and peel the sweet potatoes, then cut them into equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Toss the sweet potato pieces with oil and your chosen seasonings.

Set your air fryer to 400°F and preheat it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

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