Air-Fried Yam: Quick, Easy, And Delicious!

Air fryers are a great way to cook yams, or sweet potatoes, as they are also known. They are a healthier alternative to deep frying, using less oil and producing a lighter, fluffier result with a crispy skin. They are also quicker than cooking yams in the oven, as you don't need to preheat the air fryer. Simply wash and dry your yams, pierce them with a fork, rub with oil and seasoning, and cook for around 35-50 minutes, depending on the size of the yam and your air fryer. You can also cut yams into cubes or fries before cooking, which will reduce the cooking time to around 10-15 minutes.

How to Make Yam in an Air Fryer

How to prepare yams for the air fryer

Preparing yams for the air fryer is a simple process. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Selecting and Cleaning the Yams

Start by choosing firm yams without any bruises or soft spots. Rinse and scrub the yams with a clean brush under running water to remove any dirt. Dry them thoroughly with paper towels.

Cutting the Yams

Depending on your preference, you can cut the yams into cubes, fries, or wedges. For even cooking, try to cut the yams into similar sizes. If you're making yam fries, cut them into 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch thick sticks.

Seasoning the Yams

Place the cut yams in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil or avocado oil over the yams and toss them to coat evenly. You can also add your favourite seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the yams are coated with the seasoning.

Air Frying the Yams

Preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature, typically between 370°F to 400°F. Place the seasoned yams into the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. For crispier yams, add a couple of extra minutes.

Serving the Yams

Air-fried yams can be served as a side dish or snack. They go well with various main courses, including steaks, pork, and chicken. You can also add them to salads, wraps, burritos, or tacos. For a tasty breakfast option, include them in a breakfast bowl.

How to season yams for the air fryer

Seasoning yams in an air fryer is a simple process. First, wash and dry the yams. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the yams into the desired shape and size. For example, you could cut them into cubes, fries, or wedges. Just ensure that the pieces are of similar size to allow for even cooking.

Next, transfer the yams to a large mixing bowl. Drizzle them with a teaspoon of olive oil, avocado oil, or canola oil. You can also use cooking spray. Toss the yams well to ensure they are evenly coated with oil.

Now it's time to season! You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or try out some of these flavour combinations:

• Garlic powder, paprika, and pepper
• Cinnamon and honey
• Smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• Red chilli powder or paprika for a spicy kick
• Curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and garam masala
• Smoked paprika, chopped pecans, and marshmallows
• Smoked paprika or chilli powder with crumbled bacon

Toss the yams in the bowl to ensure they are evenly coated with the seasoning. You can now place the yams into the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded, and cook according to your preferred level of crispness.

How long to cook yams in the air fryer

The cooking time for yams in an air fryer varies depending on the size and style in which they are cut. Here is a breakdown of the cooking times for different styles of cut yams:

Sweet Potato Fries

For sweet potato fries, it is recommended to cut the potatoes into 1/4- to 1/2-inch-thick sticks. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F and cook the fries for around 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through. If you prefer crispier fries, you can add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

Sweet Potato Cubes

For sweet potato cubes, cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch pieces. Toss them with olive oil and seasonings, then place them in the air fryer at 400°F for about 10 minutes.

Baked Sweet Potatoes

For baked sweet potatoes, preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Pierce the potatoes with a fork or knife several times to ensure even cooking and prevent them from exploding. Cook the potatoes for 40-50 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Roasted Sweet Potato Chunks

For roasted sweet potato chunks, cut the potatoes into 1/2-inch pieces and toss them with olive oil and seasonings. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the specific air fryer model and the desired level of doneness. Always keep an eye on your yams to ensure they are cooked to your liking.

What to serve with air-fried yams

Air-fried yams are a delicious and healthy snack, but what should you serve them with? Here are some ideas to elevate your meal!

Firstly, let's talk about the yams themselves. When preparing yams for air frying, opt for ones that are firm, fresh, and free from blemishes. Smaller yams tend to cook more evenly, so keep that in mind. You can peel the yams or leave the skin on for added nutritional value and texture. Cut the yams into uniform, bite-sized pieces—about 1-inch cubes or 1/2-inch thick wedges.

Now, for the seasonings. Keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a touch of cinnamon for sweetness. Don't be afraid to experiment! You can also drizzle your cooked yams with honey or maple syrup for a sweet and savoury treat.

• Herbs: Toss the yam pieces with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage before air frying for an aromatic twist.
• Spicy kick: Sprinkle the yams with chili powder or cayenne pepper before air frying, and serve with a cooling dip to balance the heat.
• Proteins: Air-fried yams can be a great side dish for various proteins. Try serving them with baked or grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.
• Vegetables: Yams go well with other roasted or air-fried vegetables. Try making a mix of roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Salad: Air-fried yams can also be a great addition to a salad. Try them with a mix of greens, roasted veggies, and a tangy vinaigrette.
• Grain bowl: Create a hearty grain bowl by pairing your air-fried yams with cooked grains like quinoa or farro, roasted veggies, and a protein of your choice.
• Dips: Serve your air-fried yams with a variety of dips like hummus, tzatziki, or a spicy yogurt dip.
• As a side: Air-fried yams can be a simple and healthy side dish to any meal. Serve them alongside your favourite protein and vegetables, or as a replacement for fries or potatoes.

Remember, air-fried yams are versatile, so get creative and experiment with different flavours and pairings!

How to store leftover yams

To store leftover yams, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, where they will last for 3-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze yams in portion-sized containers for up to 6 months.

If you are storing whole yams, it is best to keep them in a dry, dark, and cool location, ideally at a temperature of 55-60°F (13-16°C). Do not store whole yams in the refrigerator. To extend their shelf life, you can cure yams for 10-14 days at 85°F and 90% humidity.

When storing cut or peeled yams, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and use them within 3-5 days.

Frequently asked questions