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Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries Using Cornstarch

Sweet potato fries are a delightful snack or side dish, beloved for their natural sweetness and vibrant colour. When cooked to perfection, they can be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The air fryer has become a popular kitchen appliance for achieving that ideal texture with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. In this article, we will explore how to make crispy air fryer sweet potato fries using cornstarch—a secret ingredient that can elevate your fry game to the next level.

Why Choose Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious, but they also boast numerous health benefits. Rich in vitamins A and C, fibre, and antioxidants, they make for a nutritious alternative to regular potatoes. Their natural sweetness pairs perfectly with various dips and seasonings, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

The Role of Cornstarch

Cornstarch serves as a coating that helps absorb moisture during the cooking process, contributing to a crispier texture. When dusted on the sweet potatoes before cooking, it forms a light, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft, fluffy interior.

Ingredients You Will Need

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or your preferred oil, such as avocado or canola)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavour)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Baking tray (if needed)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by washing and peeling the sweet potatoes. Once peeled, cut them into evenly sized fries—about 1cm thick is ideal for achieving an even cook. Uniformity in size ensures that all fries cook at the same rate.

Step 2: Soak for Extra Crispiness

For even crispier fries, consider soaking the sweet potato sticks in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This process helps draw out excess starch, further enhancing the crispiness. After soaking, drain the water and pat the fries dry with a kitchen towel.

Step 3: Season the Fries

In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato fries with olive oil, cornstarch, salt, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper. Toss well until each fry is evenly coated. The cornstarch should cling to the fries, forming a light layer of coating that will crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 390°F) for approximately 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the fries start cooking immediately and helps achieve that sought-after crunch.

Step 5: Air Fry the Sweet Potato Fries

Place the coated sweet potato fries in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spread out in a single layer for optimal airflow. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking.

Cook the fries for approximately 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to promote even cooking. Keep an eye on them towards the end, as air fryers can vary in efficiency. You want the fries to turn a beautiful golden brown and delightfully crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, carefully remove the fries from the air fryer and let them rest for a moment. You can sprinkle a bit more salt or your favourite seasoning before serving. These crispy sweet potato fries are fantastic on their own, but they pair beautifully with a variety of dips such as sweet chilli sauce, garlic aioli, or good old-fashioned ketchup.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fries, and the addition of cornstarch elevates their crunchiness to new heights. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a delightful result that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish, a snack, or even a part of a larger meal, they are bound to become a favourite in your household. So, grab your sweet potatoes and get frying—your taste buds will thank you!