### Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Who can resist the crispy yet tender goodness of sweet potato fries? They’re a healthier alternative to traditional fries and are bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a delicious side dish or a tasty snack, these baked sweet potato fries are sure to be a hit. Plus, they are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients. Let’s get started on creating this delightful treat!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help achieve that perfect crispiness on the outside while keeping the insides soft and tender.
2. **Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:** Wash the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can choose to peel them or leave the skin on for added nutrients and texture. Cut the sweet potatoes into uniform strips about 1/4 inch thick. Try to make them as evenly sized as possible to ensure they cook evenly.
3. **Season the Fries:** In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each fry is well coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
4. **Arrange on a Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spread out the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure there is some space between each fry. This will help them crisp up nicely in the oven.
5. **Bake to Perfection:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the sweet potato fries for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning – you want them to be golden brown and crispy.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the sweet potato fries are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, aioli, or sriracha mayo. These fries are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re at their crispiest.
7. **Storage Tips:** If you have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so tasty!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
These baked sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to deep-fried options. Packed with nutrients and flavor, they are perfect for serving at gatherings, as a side dish, or even as a satisfying snack. Get creative with your seasonings and dipping sauces to customize them to your liking. So, the next time you’re craving something crispy and satisfying, give this easy recipe a try – your taste buds will thank you!
