Baked Sweet Potato Fries – Freshly Ingredients

Growing up in an Italian household meant food was everything. My grandma cooked with love, pouring herself into every dish. One of my fondest memories is the smell of roasted vegetables and crisp sweet treats wafting through the air. 

Among those treats, baked sweet potato fries made an occasional appearance, providing a healthy twist to our meals.

It’s remarkable how a simple vegetable can take center stage, isn’t it? As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I have come to appreciate the versatility of sweet potatoes. While they may be humble, they bring nutrition and flavor to the table. 

Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that transforms sweet potatoes into crispy baked fries that are not only delectable but incredibly easy to make.

What Are Baked Sweet Potato Fries?

Baked sweet potato fries are strips of sweet potatoes tossed with olive oil and spices, then baked until golden and crispy. They’re a fantastic alternative to traditional potato fries, marrying flavor with health benefits.

Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C and offer fiber that supports digestive health. Unlike regular fries, baked sweet potato fries contain fewer calories and generally less fat since they omit deep-frying. They’re a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies cravings while delivering nutrients.

Why You’ll Love Baked Sweet Potato Fries

First off, let’s get one thing straight: they are delicious. The natural sweetness of the potatoes shines through, enhanced by the right spices. Imagine biting into a crisp fry, the flavor warms your palate, and then you follow it with a sharp dip. It’s a match made in foodie heaven.

Health Benefits: Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse. They pack fiber, manganese, and antioxidants. What they lack in calories, they make up for in health benefits. You can enjoy these fries knowing you’re treating your body right.

Easy to Make: Fear not! This recipe is simple enough that even the most novice of cooks can whip it up. You’ll only need basic ingredients and a bit of time. We’re talking about hours in the kitchen; this is more of a quick “cut, mix, and bake” affair.

Versatile and Fun: You can customize these fries to fit your flavor profile. Want them smoky? Toss in some paprika. Looking for something spicy? A sprinkle of cayenne does the trick. You can also serve them in so many ways!

So, if you’re ready to fall in love with baked sweet potato fries, let’s gather our ingredients.

The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own batch of baked sweet potato fries:

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh rosemary leaves

3 tablespoons rich extra-virgin olive oil

1½ teaspoons flaky kosher salt

2 pounds vibrant orange-fleshed sweet potatoes (approximately 3 large ones)

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, for a subtle warmth

1 to 2 tablespoons of your preferred spice blend: chipotle chili powder, smoky paprika, Chinese five-spice mix, pumpkin pie spice, garam masala, Cajun seasoning, or similar

These ingredients are easy to find and will help you create a dish that is sure to impress.

Directions

Let’s break this down step by step. Follow these simple directions for awesome baked sweet potato fries.

Step 1: Prepare Your Sweet Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. You want to remove any dirt and imperfections. With a sharp knife, cut sweet potatoes into thin strips. Aim for a uniform size for even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Fries

In a large bowl, combine your sweet potato strips with olive oil, rosemary, salt, ground cinnamon, and your chosen spice blend. Toss them until well coated. The oil helps them crisp up in the oven.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and place the fries in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan—this ensures they bake rather than steam.

Step 4: Bake

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake the fries for about 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Keep an eye on them; you want them crispy and golden, not burnt.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they are out of the oven, let them sit for a couple of minutes. Then, dig in! You can serve them right away or let them cool for a snack later.

Notes on Making the Best Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Here are some tips that I find crucial. They make a difference in the overall taste and experience of your fries.

• Cut Uniformly: Make sure all your fries are approximately the same size. This helps them cook evenly.
  
• Don’t Skimp on Oil: A little oil goes a long way in achieving that desired crispiness. However, don’t drown the sweet potato – a light coating is just right.
  
• Use Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
  
• Experiment with Seasoning: Sweet potato fries are a blank canvas. Use various spice blends to find your favorite combination.
  
• Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures vary. You might need to adjust the baking time based on your oven.
  

Storage Tips

Baked sweet potato fries are great when fresh, but they can be stored too. Here are some smart storage strategies:

• Cool Completely: Before storing, let your fries cool completely. This prevents them from getting mushy in the container.
  
• Use an Airtight Container: Place fries into a sealed container to keep them fresh. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  
• Reheat Carefully: To maintain their crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave. Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
  

Serving Suggestions

Looking for ways to serve these delightful fries? Here are a few ideas:

• With Burgers: Serve alongside your favorite veggie or beef burger. The sweetness pairs well with savory, meaty flavors.
  
• As a Salad Topping: Crumble fries over a salad for an unexpected crunch. They add texture and flavor, making a boring salad exciting.
  
• In a Wrap: Tuck some fries into a wrap with fresh greens and your choice of protein. It’s filling and fun!
  
• On a Snack Board: Add fries to your next charcuterie or snack board. They add vibrant color and flavor among cheese, nuts, and veggies.
  
• With a Dipping Bar: Set up a variety of dips next to your fries. It’s an interactive way to enjoy them, appealing to guests of all ages.
  

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Baked Sweet Potato Fries?

If sweet potatoes aren’t your thing, fear not! Here are some enjoyable substitutes:

• Butternut Squash: Its natural sweetness and texture make it a fantastic alternative. Just cut it similarly to sweet potatoes and bake.
  
• Carrots: Use thick-cut carrot sticks for a sweeter flavor. They provide a unique taste and vibrant color.
  
• Zucchini: Zucchini can also be cut into fries. Adjust the cooking time, as they tend to cook faster.
  
• Parsnips: These root vegetables have a sweet, nutty flavor. They roast well and bring a different profile to the dish.
  
• Regular Potatoes: Classic russet fries can replace sweet potatoes if you’re in the mood for traditional taste. Season accordingly to suit your palate.
  

Conclusion

Baked sweet potato fries are a simple yet satisfying dish that brings joy to the table. They combine the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the versatility of spices—creating a snack that pleases everyone. You can enjoy them alongside sandwiches or in a salad, and they always earn rave reviews.

As a busy registered dietitian, I appreciate recipes that offer health benefits and ease of preparation. This one checks all boxes! Enjoy making these at home, experiment with spices, and relish in the crunch of perfectly baked fries.

So next time you feel like snacking, consider a healthier yet indulgent option. It turns out that those vibrant orange strips can be the star of the show! Happy cooking!

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