Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Mayo

Introduction

Sweet potato fries are a delightful and healthier alternative to regular fries. They offer a burst of natural sweetness and a crispy texture that makes them utterly irresistible. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make perfectly crispy baked sweet potato fries paired with a smoky and tangy chipotle mayo dipping sauce. Whether you serve them as a side dish, snack, or party appetizer, these fries are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Why Baked Sweet Potato Fries?

Baking sweet potato fries instead of frying them not only reduces the calorie content but also retains more of their natural nutrients. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, making them a nutritious choice for a satisfying treat.

Preparing the Sweet Potatoes

Before diving into the recipe, let's talk about the preparation of sweet potatoes for the best results.

Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes

Look for firm and unblemished sweet potatoes with smooth skin. The deeper the color, the sweeter the fries will be. Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes are most commonly used for fries, but you can also experiment with purple or white varieties for a visually stunning dish.

Peeling and Cutting

Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can either peel the skin off or leave it on for added texture and nutrition. Cut the sweet potatoes into even matchsticks or wedges to ensure they cook evenly.

Recipe: Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Wash and peel the sweet potatoes. Cut them into even matchsticks or wedges.
3. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato sticks with cornstarch until they are well coated. This will help create a crispy exterior.
4. Add olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to the sweet potatoes. Toss until all the fries are evenly coated with the seasoning.
5. Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space between them.
6. Bake the fries in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on all sides.
7. Remove the fries from the oven when they are golden and crispy.
8. Let the sweet potato fries cool slightly before serving.

Recipe: Chipotle Mayo Dipping Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon chipotle sauce (from canned chipotle peppers)
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon honey
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chipotle sauce, lime juice, honey, and salt.
2. Taste and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
3. Chill the chipotle mayo in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Serving and Enjoyment

Arrange the crispy baked sweet potato fries on a serving platter and serve them alongside the chipotle mayo dipping sauce. The smoky, tangy flavors of the sauce complement the natural sweetness of the fries beautifully. These fries are perfect as a party appetizer, side dish, or even a delicious snack for a cozy night in.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Mayo is a delightful and wholesome treat that brings out the best flavors of sweet potatoes. With its perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness, this dish will leave your taste buds wanting more. Enjoy the goodness of sweet potatoes with a kick of chipotle heat in this easy and satisfying recipe.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular potatoes for this recipe instead of sweet potatoes?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes if you prefer. However, the cooking time may vary slightly.

2. How can I make the sweet potato fries even crispier?

For extra crispiness, you can soak the cut sweet potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. This helps remove excess starch.

3. Is chipotle sauce spicy?

Yes, chipotle sauce can be quite spicy. Adjust the amount to your desired level of heat.

4. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for the dipping sauce?

Yes, Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise in the chipotle dipping sauce.

5. Can I freeze the baked sweet potato fries?

While it's best to enjoy the sweet potato fries fresh for optimal taste and texture, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes for best results.