Get ready to transform your potato game with these mind-blowingly delicious Japanese sweet potato fries that will make your taste buds dance! Forget everything you know about ordinary fries - these golden, crispy delights are about to revolutionize your snacking experience. Packed with unique flavor, a stunning orange hue, and a perfect balance of seasonings, these fries are not just a side dish, but a culinary adventure that will have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Japanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium Japanese sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Wash the Japanese sweet potatoes thoroughly under cool running water. Pat them completely dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve crispier fries.
- Using a sharp chef's knife, carefully cut the sweet potatoes into uniform, thin fry-shaped sticks approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking and crispy texture.
- Place the cut sweet potato fries in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over the fries, then sprinkle sea salt, paprika, and black pepper. Toss the fries gently but thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated with oil and seasonings.
- Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded or touching each other. This spacing allows hot air to circulate and promotes crispy edges.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning the fries halfway through cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on all sides.
- Remove from oven when fries are golden brown and crisp on the edges. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes to cool slightly and set their crispy exterior.
- Transfer to a serving plate and enjoy immediately while hot and crispy. Optional: Serve with a dipping sauce like sriracha mayo or garlic aioli.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Select firm, unblemished Japanese sweet potatoes with a vibrant orange color for the best flavor and texture.
- Moisture is the enemy of crispiness: Thoroughly dry your cut potato sticks to ensure maximum crunch. Use clean kitchen towels or paper towels to remove all excess moisture.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Give your fries breathing room! Spacing them out allows hot air to circulate, creating those irresistibly crispy edges.
- Flip halfway through cooking: Turning the fries ensures even browning and prevents any soggy spots.
- Experiment with seasonings: While this recipe uses classic salt, paprika, and pepper, feel free to try other spice blends like Japanese seven-spice (Shichimi Togarashi) for an extra flavor kick.
- Serve immediately: These fries are best enjoyed hot and fresh out of the oven when they're at peak crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
