Why You’ll Love this Sweet Potato Home Fries Recipe
You’re going to love this Sweet Potato Home Fries recipe for so many reasons. First off, it combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the heartiness of russet potatoes, creating a fabulous flavor balance.
The addition of smoked paprika gives it a delightful smokiness that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile! Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, they pair perfectly with just about anything.
I love how easy they’re to prepare, and you can even make them ahead of time. When they crisp up in the pan, they become golden and irresistibly delicious.
Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to side dish in your kitchen!
Ingredients of Sweet Potato Home Fries
When it comes to making delicious Sweet Potato Home Fries, it’s all about the ingredients you choose. The combination of russet potatoes and sweet potatoes creates a flavor explosion that’s both hearty and sweet.
And let’s not forget the magic ingredient: smoked paprika. It adds a depth of flavor that transforms these simple potatoes into something truly special. So, let’s gather everything we need to whip up this delightful dish!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into medium dice
- 2 lbs orange sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into medium dice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 6 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 medium garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large shallots, minced
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup scallion, finely sliced
Now, before you run off to the grocery store, there are a few things to think about. First off, make sure your potatoes are fresh. No one wants a mushy home fry, right?
And while russet and sweet potatoes are a classic combo, you could totally switch things up. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some Yukon golds for an extra buttery flavor, or even toss in some herbs like rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so pay attention to those potatoes as they boil and fry. It’s all about achieving that perfect golden crispiness on the outside while keeping a soft, fluffy center.
How to Make Sweet Potato Home Fries
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful world of making Smoky Sweet Potato Home Fries. Grab your 3 lbs of russet potatoes and 2 lbs of orange sweet potatoes, and let’s get to work. The first step is to peel and cut those potatoes into medium dice. Think of them as the perfect bite-sized morsels.
Once you’ve got them diced, toss them into separate saucepans. Cover them generously with cold water, and bring it all to a boil. You want to cook them until they’re just slightly tender — that means they should give a little when poked with a knife but still hold their shape. This usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes, so keep an eye on them. Nobody likes mushy fries, right?
Once your potatoes are at that perfect point, drain them well and spread them out on a baking sheet to cool off. This step is essential because it helps them firm up a bit and makes frying later much easier. If you’re feeling like a culinary overachiever, you can go ahead and store them in a sealed container in the fridge overnight. But if you’re ready to fry, let’s keep going!
In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 2 teaspoons of kosher salt. This little spice mixture is where the magic happens, trust me.
Now, heat up 6 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add a third of your potato mixture. It’s important to not overcrowd the pan; think of it as giving each potato a chance to shine.
Let them cook undisturbed for about 5 to 8 minutes until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. Then, give them a gentle stir, and let them sit for another 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll want to add a third of your minced garlic and shallots along with that lovely paprika-salt mix, plus some freshly ground black pepper.
Cook it all together until everything looks and smells divine, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Finally, sprinkle with a third of your finely sliced scallions, and voilà! You have a crispy platter of home fries ready to enjoy.
Just repeat with the remaining potatoes, and you’re in for a treat that might just steal the show at breakfast—or any meal, really.
Sweet Potato Home Fries Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up those delicious Smoky Sweet Potato Home Fries, it’s worth exploring some fun substitutions and variations to make the dish your own.
If you want a different flavor, try using Yukon gold or purple potatoes instead of russets. For a spicy kick, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
You can also switch the smoked paprika for chili powder or even curry powder for a unique twist. If you’re looking for more veggies, add bell peppers or zucchini into the mix.
Finally, don’t hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to elevate the taste. The possibilities are endless, and I love discovering new combinations!
What to Serve with Sweet Potato Home Fries
What goes best with those smoky sweet potato home fries? I love pairing them with a simple fried egg on top. The runny yolk adds richness that complements the fries perfectly.
If I’m feeling indulgent, I’ll serve them alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a hearty breakfast. For a lighter option, a fresh avocado salad dressed in lime juice brings a revitalizing contrast to the smoky flavors.
You can also try them with a zesty chimichurri sauce for a punch of flavor. If I’m hosting brunch, I often add a side of roasted vegetables or a fruit salad to balance the meal.
No matter what, these home fries make any dish feel special!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your smoky sweet potato home fries, keep in mind a few helpful tips to elevate your dish.
First, don’t skip the soaking step; it helps achieve that crispy texture we all love. If you want extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of liquid smoke to the paprika mixture.
For a more colorful presentation, mix in some red or yellow bell peppers.
When cooking, make certain not to overcrowd the pan; working in batches guarantees even browning.
Finally, let your fries rest on paper towels after cooking to absorb excess oil.
Trust me, these little tweaks will make your home fries irresistible! Enjoy your delicious creation!