How to Make the Best Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic
Sweet potato fries are like a little slice of heaven. But what makes them even better? Garlic! Yes, we’re taking these fries to a whole new level, making them crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with that irresistible garlic flavor. Ready to dive into this recipe? Let’s go!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika if that’s what you’ve got)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, because why not?)
How to Make These Fries
Now, here’s where things get interesting. You might think you know how to make fries, but trust me—this method will make you question everything you thought you knew about sweet potato fries.
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
First things first, grab your sweet potatoes and give them a good rinse. No one wants dirt in their fries! Peel them if you’re feeling fancy, but I’m a firm believer in the skin. It adds texture, flavor, and that rustic vibe. Cut them into long strips—aim for about 1/4 inch thick, but if they’re a little thicker or thinner, it’s not the end of the world. The key is consistency!
Step 2: Soak for Crispiness
This step is often overlooked, but it’s crucial. Fill a bowl with cold water and let those sweet potato strips soak for at least 30 minutes. Yes, 30 minutes. I know it’s tempting to skip it, but soaking helps release the starch and gives your fries that extra crisp. Pat them dry with a towel afterward—no moisture allowed!
Step 3: Coat with Seasonings
Now for the fun part—seasoning! In a large mixing bowl, toss those sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want to add some heat. But wait, here’s where the garlic comes in—let’s not just add garlic now; we’re going to infuse it!
Take that minced garlic and sauté it in a small pan over low heat for about 2 minutes, just until it’s fragrant. Don’t let it burn—that’s a crime against garlic. Once it’s perfectly golden and aromatic, drizzle it over the fries. Toss again, making sure every fry is coated in garlicky goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper (because we’re not about that sticky, hard-to-clean life) and spread the fries out in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them; give them space to crisp up!
Bake for about 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them because sweet potatoes can go from “just right” to “burnt” in a matter of minutes. Golden-brown, crispy edges? That’s your cue.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
Once they’re perfectly crispy, take them out of the oven and let them rest for just a minute. Don’t rush! Then sprinkle them with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling wild, a little extra sprinkle of salt won’t hurt either.
What to Serve These Fries With?
Honestly, these sweet potato fries with garlic are so good that they could be a meal on their own, but if you need something to pair them with, consider a dipping sauce. Something creamy—like aioli, ranch, or even a zesty yogurt dip—will complement the savory garlic flavor perfectly.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Fries
- Use a high-quality olive oil. It makes a difference. Trust me.
- Don’t skip the soaking step. It’s the secret to extra crispiness.
- Mind the thickness. Too thick, and they’ll be soggy; too thin, and they’ll burn. Aim for just right.
- Garlic is your friend. Sauté it before adding to the fries for a deep, rich flavor.
There you have it! The best sweet potato fries with garlic, crisped to perfection and loaded with flavor. Simple, yet extraordinary. You’ll never look at fries the same way again!