Imagine biting into a golden, crispy sweet potato fry that's bursting with herb-infused flavor and perfectly seasoned to tantalize your senses. These oven-baked sweet potato fries are not just a side dish; they're a culinary adventure that transforms the humble sweet potato into a gourmet experience. Forget greasy restaurant fries – you're about to learn how to create restaurant-quality fries right in your own kitchen that are healthier, more delicious, and guaranteed to impress everyone at the table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the sweet potatoes into uniform french fry-shaped strips, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Aim for consistent sizing to ensure even cooking.
- Place the cut sweet potato strips in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the potato strips, then add minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the sweet potato strips thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with oil and seasonings. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix well, making sure each fry is completely seasoned.
- Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded or overlapping, which would prevent proper crisping.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Check the fries during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They should be golden brown and crisp on the edges. If needed, broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve extra crispiness.
- Remove from the oven and let the sweet potato fries rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly and cool to a safe eating temperature.
- Transfer to a serving plate and optionally sprinkle with additional salt or fresh herbs like chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and crisp.
Tips
- Always choose firm, fresh sweet potatoes with smooth skin for the best texture.
- Pat the sweet potato strips completely dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness.
- Use a sharp knife and cut fries as uniformly as possible for even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet – give each fry space to crisp up properly.
- Flip the fries halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.
- For extra crispiness, consider soaking cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before drying and seasoning.
- Experiment with different herb combinations like rosemary, thyme, or smoked paprika for unique flavor profiles.
- Serve immediately after cooking to maintain maximum crispiness and temperature.
- If you prefer spicier fries, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
