Patatas fritas de boniato al horno

Ingredientes

• 2 large Sweet Potatoes (about 1.5 lbs / 680g): Choose firm sweet potatoes with smooth, unblemished skin. Orange-fleshed varieties like Beauregard or Jewel work best for their flavor and texture. They provide the signature sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil): This helps the fries crisp up in the oven and prevents them from sticking. Use a good quality oil for better flavor. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point, which is also beneficial.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful reddish hue to the fries. Sweet or smoked paprika can be used based on preference.
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Provides a savory depth that complements the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds another layer of savory flavor, balancing the sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors. Use sea salt or kosher salt for the best result. Adjust based on your preference.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste): Adds a touch of warmth and spice. Freshly ground black pepper offers the most robust flavor.
• Optional: 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch: A secret weapon for extra crispiness! Tossing the potatoes in cornstarch before the oil helps absorb excess moisture.
• Optional: Pinch of Cayenne Pepper or Chili Powder: For those who like a little kick of heat.
• Optional: Fresh Herbs (like chopped rosemary or thyme): Can be added during the last 10 minutes of baking or tossed with the fries immediately after baking for fresh flavor.

Preparación

1. 1

   Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet (or two if necessary to avoid overcrowding) with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheet. Proper preheating is crucial for achieving crispy fries as it helps the exterior start cooking immediately upon contact.

2. 2

   Wash and Cut Sweet Potatoes: Scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them completely dry with a paper towel – removing surface moisture is key for crispiness. You can peel the sweet potatoes if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra nutrients, fiber, and a slightly more rustic texture. Trim off the ends. Cut the sweet potatoes into fry shapes, aiming for uniform thickness, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Uniformity is vital for even cooking; if some pieces are much thicker than others, the thin ones will burn before the thick ones are cooked through. You can cut them into classic sticks, wedges, or even crinkle-cut if you have the right tool.

3. 3

   Season the Fries: Place the cut sweet potatoes in a large bowl. If using cornstarch for extra crispiness, sprinkle it over the dry potato sticks now and toss well to coat evenly before adding any oil. This allows the cornstarch to absorb surface moisture directly.

4. 4

   Add Oil and Seasonings: Drizzle the olive oil (or avocado oil) over the cornstarch-coated (or plain) sweet potato sticks. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure every piece is lightly coated in oil. This helps with browning and crisping. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper (and cayenne/chili powder, if using). Sprinkle this seasoning mixture over the oiled potatoes. Toss again until the seasonings are evenly distributed.

5. 5

   Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet(s). This is perhaps the most critical step for achieving crispiness! Do not overcrowd the pan. The fries need space for the hot air to circulate around them. If they are too close together or piled up, they will steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy fries. Use two baking sheets if necessary.

6. 6

   Bake: Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes.

7. 7

   Flip the Fries: After 15 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Using a spatula, carefully flip the fries over. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides. If using optional fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, you can sprinkle them over the fries now.

8. 8

   Continue Baking: Return the baking sheet to the oven and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the fries are tender on the inside and crispy and lightly caramelized on the edges. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as the sugars in sweet potatoes can cause them to brown (and burn) quickly. Total baking time will typically be 25-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of your fries and your specific oven.

9. 9

   Serve Immediately: Baked sweet potato fries are best enjoyed fresh and hot straight from the oven. They tend to lose their crispiness as they cool. Taste and add a little more salt if needed before serving.