Sweet Potato Fries Recipe – Crispy & Spiced Indian Style

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Sweet Potato Fries Recipe – Crispy & Spiced Indian Style

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for a healthier snack that still delivers on flavour. And let me tell you, these Indian-spiced sweet potato fries are it! They’re crispy, satisfying, and packed with a warm, comforting spice blend. I first made these when I was craving something a little different than regular potato fries, and honestly, they’ve become a weekly staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average sweet potato fries. We’re taking things up a notch with a vibrant Indian-inspired spice blend. They’re super easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and are a fantastic way to enjoy sweet potatoes beyond just roasting them simply. Plus, they’re a much healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious fries:

• 1 sweet potato
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 0.5 tbsp olive oil (about 7ml)
• 0.5-1 tsp spices (garlic powder, chaat masala, cayenne pepper, cinnamon-sugar – get creative!)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because a few little things can make a big difference.

Sweet Potato Varieties

I prefer using the orange-fleshed sweet potatoes for these fries, as they have a naturally sweeter flavour. But honestly, you can use any variety you like – Jewel, Garnet, or even the Japanese sweet potatoes (with the purple skin!) will work beautifully.

Cornstarch – The Key to Crispiness

Don’t skip the cornstarch! This is the secret weapon for achieving that perfect crispy exterior. It helps to draw out moisture and creates a lovely coating for the spices to cling to.

Olive Oil vs. Other Oils

Olive oil adds a lovely flavour, but you can also use avocado oil or even coconut oil if you prefer. Just make sure it has a relatively high smoke point.

Spice Blend – Regional Indian Variations

This is where you can really have fun! I love a mix of garlic powder, chaat masala (for that tangy kick!), a pinch of cayenne for heat, and sometimes even a touch of cinnamon-sugar for a sweet-spicy vibe. Feel free to experiment with your favourite Indian spices – garam masala, turmeric, cumin, or even a little chili powder would be fantastic. Think about what flavours you enjoy in your favourite Indian dishes and try to replicate them here!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Wash, peel (optional – I often leave the skin on for extra nutrients!), and cut the sweet potato into uniform, thin slices. Aim for about ¼ inch (0.6cm) thick for even cooking.
3. Now, in a bowl or a large ziplock bag, toss the potato slices with the cornstarch until they’re fully coated. Make sure every piece gets a little love!
4. Drizzle with olive oil and add your chosen spices. Toss again, ensuring the fries are evenly coated with the oil and spice blend.
5. Arrange the fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Don’t overcrowd the pan – this will steam the fries instead of roasting them. You might need to use two baking sheets.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them towards the end to prevent burning.
7. Let them cool slightly before serving. They’re delicious with ketchup, but honestly, they’re pretty amazing on their own too!

Expert Tips

Want to take your sweet potato fries to the next level? Here are a few of my go-to tips:

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

The key is to remove as much moisture as possible. Coating them well in cornstarch is the first step. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet!

Preventing Sticking

Parchment paper or a silicone mat is your best friend here. Trust me.

Spice Level Adjustment

Start with ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper if you’re unsure about the heat. You can always add more later!

Variations

Let’s get creative!

Vegan Sweet Potato Fries

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check your spice blend to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden animal products.

Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Fries

Also naturally gluten-free! Again, just check your spice blend.

Spice Level – Mild, Medium, Hot

• Mild: Garlic powder, cinnamon, a tiny pinch of cayenne.
• Medium: Garlic powder, chaat masala, ½ tsp cayenne.
• Hot: Garlic powder, chaat masala, 1 tsp cayenne, a pinch of chili powder.

Festival Adaptations (Navratri, Diwali Snacks)

During Navratri, you can skip the potato altogether and use yam (shakarkandi) for a vrat-friendly version. For Diwali, a sprinkle of a little powdered sugar along with the spices adds a festive touch! My aunt always makes them this way.

Serving Suggestions

These fries are amazing on their own, but they also pair well with:

• A cooling yogurt dip (raita)
• Your favourite burger or sandwich
• As a side to a spicy curry
• Simply with a squeeze of lemon juice

Storage Instructions

Leftover fries are best enjoyed immediately, but you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to restore some of their crispiness.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What’s the best way to cut sweet potatoes for fries?

Uniformity is key! Aim for slices about ¼ inch (0.6cm) thick. A mandoline can be helpful, but a sharp knife works just fine.

Can I make these fries in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway through.

Can I use other starches instead of cornstarch?

You can try tapioca starch or potato starch, but cornstarch gives the best results.

How can I make these fries extra crispy?

Make sure the fries are well-coated in cornstarch and don’t overcrowd the baking sheet.

What dipping sauces pair well with Indian-spiced sweet potato fries?

Raita, mint chutney, tamarind chutney, or even a simple ketchup with a dash of chaat masala!

Enjoy! I really hope you give this recipe a try. Let me know in the comments how they turn out for you!