Why You’ll Love this Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious twist on a classic side dish, you’ll love this Taco-Spiced Sweet Potato Fries recipe. I can’t get enough of the crispy texture and the savory taco seasoning that elevates these fries to a whole new level.
They’re not just tasty; they’re packed with nutrients, making them a guilt-free indulgence. The natural sweetness of the potatoes balances perfectly with the spice, creating an irresistible flavor combination.
Plus, they’re super easy to prepare! I enjoy serving them as a fun appetizer or alongside my favorite main dishes. Trust me, once you try these fries, you’ll find yourself making them again and again. They’re that good!
Give them a shot, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.
Ingredients of Sweet Potato Fries
When it comes to whipping up a batch of Taco-Spiced Sweet Potato Fries, the ingredients are super straightforward but oh-so-delicious. You only need a handful of items that you might already have hanging out in your kitchen. Sweet potatoes are the star of the show, and when you mix them with a little olive oil and taco seasoning, you’ve got the makings of a mouthwatering side dish that’s hard to resist.
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to gather before getting started.
- 6 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced like steak fries
- Extra virgin olive oil, for lightly coating
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 (8 ounce) packet taco seasoning mix
Now, before you embark on your cooking adventure, let’s chat about those ingredients for a sec. Sweet potatoes aren’t just tasty; they’re a powerhouse of nutrients, loaded with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Talk about a healthy side!
If you’re not a sweet potato fan (though I can’t imagine why), you could totally swap them out for regular baking potatoes. Just keep in mind that if you go that route, you’ll want to tweak the baking time a bit—only five minutes after flipping instead of ten.
And don’t skimp on the olive oil; it helps those fries crisp up beautifully. You want that golden-brown goodness, right? So grab your ingredients, and let’s get ready to fry up some happiness.
How to Make Sweet Potato Fries
Alright, let’s plunge into making those Taco-Spiced Sweet Potato Fries. First things first, set that oven to a sizzling 425 degrees F. You’re going to want it nice and hot to get those fries crispy.
While that’s heating up, grab your 6 large sweet potatoes. Peel them and slice them into thick, steak fry-style pieces. Now, I don’t know about you, but slicing sweet potatoes can feel like a workout. It’s like, who knew potatoes could be so stubborn? But don’t worry, it’s all worth it in the end.
Now, take those beautifully cut sweet potatoes and toss them into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over them—not too much, just enough to give them a light coating. You want them to shine but not swim in oil, unless you’re feeling particularly adventurous.
Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of kosher salt and that magical 8-ounce packet of taco seasoning mix. Get your hands in there and toss everything together. It’s a bit messy, but hey, that’s what cooking is all about, right? Just imagine the fragrant spices mingling with the sweet potatoes—yum.
Once coated and seasoned, arrange those fries on a baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not too cramped; we want them to crisp up, not steam.
Pop them in the oven for 10 minutes, then flip them over with a spatula. This is where the magic happens. Let them bake for another 10 minutes, and when they come out, they should be soft inside and beautifully browned on the outside.
Just let them cool for a few minutes before you plunge in. Try not to burn your fingers, though—trust me, I’ve made that mistake more times than I can count.
And there you have it, homemade Taco-Spiced Sweet Potato Fries that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!
Sweet Potato Fries Substitutions & Variations
Exploring substitutions and variations for your sweet potato fries can elevate your culinary experience.
If you’re in the mood for something different, try using baking potatoes instead of sweet potatoes. Just remember to adjust the cooking time to 5 minutes for the second bake.
You can also experiment with different seasonings; paprika or garlic powder can add a tasty twist. For a spicy kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder.
If you’re looking for a healthier option, try air-frying the fries instead of baking them.
You may even use zucchini or carrots for a unique veggie fry experience. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and enjoy customizing your fries to match your taste!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and versatile snack, perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes.
I love serving them alongside a tangy avocado dip or a zesty cilantro-lime crema. They also complement grilled meats beautifully—think juicy burgers or spicy chicken skewers.
If I’m feeling fancy, I might add them to a taco bar for a fun twist. For a light meal, I enjoy tossing them into a salad loaded with greens, black beans, and corn for extra flavor and crunch.
And let’s not forget about toppings! A sprinkle of feta or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate them even further.
Whatever you choose, sweet potato fries will surely shine on your table!
Additional Tips & Notes
When making taco-spiced sweet potato fries, I’ve learned a few tips that can really enhance the experience. First, make certain to slice the sweet potatoes evenly; this helps them cook uniformly.
I also prefer using parchment paper on the baking sheet to prevent sticking and guarantee crispiness. Don’t overcrowd the fries; giving them space helps achieve that perfect crunch.
For added flavor, consider sprinkling some lime juice or fresh cilantro right before serving. If you want a little extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
Finally, these fries pair beautifully with a creamy dipping sauce, like avocado or chipotle mayo, balancing the spice perfectly. Enjoy your crispy, flavorful creation!