Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a delightful twist on the classic fry that not only tantalize your taste buds but also give you a boost of nutrients. When you add the aromatic flavors of rosemary and a sprinkle of sea salt, you elevate these fries to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving them up as a side dish at dinner or enjoying them as a snack, Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Keep Making It
There’s something undeniably satisfying about homemade fries, especially when they’re as crispy and flavorful as these Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries. The combination of fresh rosemary and smoked paprika brings a depth of flavor that’s both earthy and aromatic. Plus, sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. What’s more, they’re simple to prepare and can easily complement any meal or shine as a stand-alone snack.
Ingredient Rundown
To create these mouthwatering fries, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato: Look for one that is firm and free of blemishes. Sweet potatoes are naturally sweet and provide a fantastic base for your fries.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: A high-quality olive oil adds richness and helps achieve that coveted crispy texture.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped: Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant herbaceous note that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: This spice gives the fries a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: A finishing touch that brings out all the flavors in the fries.
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start cooking, gather the following kitchen essentials:
- Baking sheet: A large, flat surface where your fries will crisp up in the oven.
- Parchment paper: Optional but recommended for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Sharp knife: For slicing the sweet potato into even fries.
- Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients before baking.
- Oven mitts: Safety first! Protect your hands when handling hot pans.
Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries Cooking Guide
Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create your Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven is key to achieving that extra crispiness.
Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato
Wash and peel the sweet potato. Using a sharp knife, slice it into thin, even strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Uniform sizes ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning
In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato fries with olive oil, finely chopped rosemary, smoked paprika, and sea salt. Toss until the fries are well-coated. The oil will help them crisp up nicely.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the sweet potato fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they have space between them. Overcrowding will lead to steaming rather than crisping.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. You want them to be golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the fries are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own!
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to customize your fries, consider these swaps:
- Rosemary: If you don’t have fresh rosemary, dried rosemary can be used. Just reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon as dried herbs are more potent.
- Olive oil: You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Sea salt: Regular table salt can work, but you may want to reduce the amount slightly as it’s more concentrated.
- Smoked paprika: For a milder flavor, use regular paprika, or if you like heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
Frequent Missteps to Avoid
Creating the perfect Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries can be straightforward, but here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not preheating the oven: Skipping this step can result in soggy fries rather than crispy ones.
- Cutting uneven fries: Inconsistent sizes will lead to uneven cooking, with some fries burnt while others are undercooked.
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: This will trap steam and prevent the fries from getting crispy. Use multiple sheets if necessary.
- Skipping the flip: Failing to flip the fries halfway through will prevent them from browning evenly.
Make Ahead Like a Pro
Want to prepare your Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries in advance? Here’s how to do it:
Cut the sweet potato fries ahead of time and store them in a bowl of cold water in the refrigerator. This helps prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply drain and dry the fries thoroughly before tossing them with oil and seasoning. You can also bake them ahead of time and reheat in the oven when ready to serve. Just keep in mind that they might lose a bit of crispiness during reheating, so enjoy them fresh for the best texture.
Handy Q&A
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes provide a unique flavor and health benefits, you can use regular russet potatoes or even Yukon gold for a different taste and texture.
How can I make these fries spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix. Start with a small amount and adjust to your desired spice level.
Can I prepare these fries in an air fryer?
Yes! To make Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries in an air fryer, toss the seasoned fries with a little less oil and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even cooking.
What can I serve with these fries?
These fries pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic aioli, spicy ketchup, or even a creamy avocado dip. They also make a great side for burgers, sandwiches, or grilled meats.
Save & Share
If you love these Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries, don’t keep it to yourself! Share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy the compliments that follow. They’ll be amazed at how simple it is to make such a delicious treat at home. You can even post a picture of your creation on social media and tag your favorite foodies to spread the love.
Creating these fries is not just about the food; it’s about enjoying the process and sharing that joy with others. So gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in some seriously crispy and flavorful sweet potato fries. Your taste buds will thank you!
Extra Crispy Rosemary and Sea Salt Sweet Potato Fries
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potato. Wash and peel the sweet potato. Slice into thin, even strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Step 3: Toss with Olive Oil and Seasoning. In a mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato fries with olive oil, rosemary, smoked paprika, and sea salt. Toss until well-coated.
- Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread fries in a single layer, ensuring space between them.
- Step 5: Bake to Perfection. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce or on their own!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for a different flavor.
- Store cut fries in cold water to prevent browning if preparing ahead.
