Sweet Potato Fries Recipe – Kashmiri Chili & Turmeric Air Fryer Delight

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Sweet Potato Fries Recipe – Kashmiri Chili & Turmeric Air Fryer Delight

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for a healthier snack that still delivers on flavor. And let me tell you, these Sweet Potato Fries are it! They’re crispy, warmly spiced, and seriously addictive. I first made these when I was craving something comforting but wanted to avoid deep frying. They’ve been a family favorite ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average fries. The Kashmiri chili powder gives a beautiful color and a gentle warmth, while the turmeric adds an earthy note and a boost of goodness. Plus, air frying means less oil and maximum crispiness. It’s a win-win! They’re ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a weekend snack.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful fries:

• 500 grams Sweet Potatoes (about 2 medium-large)
• 1 teaspoon Kashmiri Red Chili Powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Turmeric Powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper Powder
• 0.75 teaspoon Salt
• 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Kashmiri Red Chili Powder: Flavor & Color Profile

Kashmiri chili powder isn’t just about heat; it’s about color! It gives these fries a gorgeous vibrant red hue and a mild, fruity chili flavor. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with regular chili powder, but you might want to reduce the amount slightly as it can be spicier.

Sweet Potato Varieties: Best Choices for Fries

I find that the orange-fleshed sweet potatoes work best for fries – they get beautifully crispy. Jewel or Garnet varieties are fantastic. But honestly, any sweet potato will do in a pinch!

Olive Oil: Why Extra Virgin is Recommended

I always reach for extra virgin olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. It helps the spices cling to the sweet potato and adds a lovely richness. You could use another oil with a high smoke point, like avocado oil, if you prefer.

Turmeric Powder: Health Benefits & Quality

Turmeric isn’t just a spice; it’s a superfood! It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Look for a good quality turmeric powder – the brighter the color, the more potent the flavor.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, give your sweet potatoes a good scrub to remove any dirt. Pat them dry, then peel and cut them into roughly ½-¾ inch thick fries. Don’t worry about making them perfectly uniform – a little variation is fine!
2. Now, in a bowl, toss those sweet potato fries with the Kashmiri red chili powder, garlic powder, turmeric powder, black pepper, salt, and olive oil. Make sure everything is evenly coated. This is where the magic happens!
3. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 2-3 minutes. While it’s heating up, lightly oil the basket. This helps prevent sticking.
4. Arrange the fries in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd it – you might need to cook them in batches. Cook for 12-15 minutes, giving the basket a good shake every 5 minutes. This ensures they get crispy on all sides.
5. Once they’re golden brown and crispy, serve immediately with your favorite dip!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the shake! Shaking the basket is key to even cooking.
• Single layer is best. Overcrowding leads to soggy fries.
• Pat them dry! Removing excess moisture helps with crispiness.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: These fries are naturally gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Mild to Spicy): Adjust the amount of Kashmiri chili powder to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add extra heat. My friend, Priya, loves to add a tiny bit of smoked paprika for a smoky kick!
• Festival Adaptation: Navratri/Fasting Friendly Option: During Navratri or other fasting periods, ensure your salt is rock salt (sendha namak) and you’re following the specific dietary rules of your fast.

Serving Suggestions

These fries are amazing with so many things! I love them with:

• A cooling yogurt dip (raita)
• Spicy tomato ketchup
• A tangy mint chutney
• As a side to a veggie burger

Storage Instructions

Honestly, these are best enjoyed fresh! But if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer to regain some of their crispiness.

FAQs

Are sweet potato fries healthier than regular fries?

Yes! Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Plus, air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying.

Can I bake these fries instead of air frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as air-fried, but still delicious.

What’s the best way to prevent the fries from sticking in the air fryer?

Lightly oiling the basket is the most important thing. You can also try using parchment paper specifically designed for air fryers.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, avocado oil or any other oil with a high smoke point will work.

How can I make these fries extra crispy?

Soaking the cut sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes before tossing with the spices can help draw out some starch and make them extra crispy. Just be sure to pat them very dry afterward!