Image Source from betterhomebase

Air Fryer Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: A Delicious and Healthy Snack

Sweet potato fries have become a popular alternative to traditional potato fries, offering a slightly sweeter taste and a wealth of nutritional benefits. With the advent of air fryers, it has never been easier to achieve that elusive crispy texture without the excess oil. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making crispy sweet potato fries in your air fryer, resulting in a mouthwatering snack that is both healthy and delicious.

Why Choose Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, fibre, and antioxidants, promoting overall health. Compared to white potatoes, sweet potatoes have a lower glycaemic index, making them a better choice for those monitoring their sugar levels. Their natural sweetness and earthy flavour make them a perfect candidate for frying, roasting, or baking.

Ingredients

To make your air fryer crispy sweet potato fries, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any oil of your choice)
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet, depending on your preference)
• Optional: garlic powder, cayenne pepper, or your favourite seasoning for extra flavour

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and Cut: Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes. Slice them into even wedges or fries — aim for about 1cm thickness to ensure even cooking.

2. Soak in Water: To remove excess starch and enhance crispiness, soak the cut sweet potato fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving that perfect crunch when cooked.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

While the sweet potatoes are soaking, preheat your air fryer to 200°C (392°F) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps to kickstart the cooking process and ensures evenly cooked fries.

Step 3: Season the Fries

1. Drain and Dry: After soaking, drain the fries and pat them dry with kitchen paper or a clean towel. Removing moisture is crucial for crispiness.

2. Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your chosen spices. Ensure each fry is evenly coated.

Step 4: Air Fry the Sweet Potato Fries

1. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place the seasoned fries in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent them from cooking evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.

2. Cook: Set the air fryer to cook for about 15-20 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness. Keep an eye on them, as cook times may vary depending on your specific air fryer model.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the fries are golden brown and crispy, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. These sweet potato fries pair beautifully with a range of dips, such as garlic aioli, ketchup, or a zesty avocado dip.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Sweet Potato Fries

• Cut Uniformly: Ensure all fries are cut to a similar size to promote even cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Soaking: A good soak can significantly enhance the texture of the fries.
• Experiment with Flavours: Feel free to get creative with seasonings. Try adding chilli flakes for a spicy kick or rosemary for an earthy flavour.

Conclusion

Air fryer crispy sweet potato fries are an easy, healthy snack that can satisfy your cravings without the guilt of deep-frying. With their vibrant colour, irresistible taste, and nutritional benefits, they are a fantastic addition to your meals or perfect for entertaining. So, grab your air fryer and get cooking — your taste buds will thank you!

No items listed in the response.