| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 278 | 10g | 1g | 41g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 6g | 3g | 0.04g |
I’m an old-timer, a keeper of tales and traditions. Not only do I hold dear those family recipes passed down from my Irish grandparents, but I also appreciate the diversity of flavors the world offers. I love experimenting with my Bostonian roots and my inherited Irish knack for comfort food, which is why I’m particularly fond of this recipe: Cayenne Pepper Baked Sweet Potato Fries.
A Flavorful Fusion
Having grown up in Boston, a stone’s throw away from the sea, many of my recipes are seafood-themed dishes. However, this is a recipe that strays from that. It’s not about just lobsters and clams here, but also other nourishing edible treasures from Mother Nature. Like Sweet Potatoes. I believe that good food doesn’t always have to be complicated or elaborate- sometimes, a handful of wholesome ingredients tossed together in a creative way can result in something truly delightful to the palate.
The Irish Connection
On this particular adventure, my roots of Irish comfort food are the defining inspiration. You must be thinking, “sweet potatoes aren’t particularly Irish, Liam!” I agree with you, they certainly are not a traditional larder staple in many Irish homes. Yet it is in the union of sweet potatoes with spices, where I see a subtle pairing of different comfort food cultures. Spicy and fragrant, akin to the filling warmth of a hearty Irish stew, these sweet potato fries are dusted with a concoction of cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and a dash of dark brown sugar – it’s a crazy good flavor mixture that somehow manages to mingle what I would call the coziness of Irish food with a zingy New England twist.
Health In Every Bite
Aside from the scrumptious taste, sweet potatoes are incredibly rich in vitamins, most notably vitamin A. They’re a great source of fiber and full of essential antioxidants. They may taste like a treat, but they’re really very good for you!
The Cayenne Pepper Baked Sweet Potato Fries will accompany a multitude of dishes. They’d pair beautifully with roast chicken or grilled salmon. Alternatively, they would make a fun side for a casual burger and even make a delightful appetizer when partnered with a zesty dip.
This recipe is somewhat reminiscent of Roasted Spiced Sweet Potatoes from Bon Appétit, but with a spicy twist. A touch of intrigue to keep your taste buds engaged, and your dinner guests impressed.
But don’t take my word for it. Try it out for yourself, and let me know how it goes. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 6 large sweet potatoes
- 1/4 cup of olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of dark brown sugar
- Sea salt to taste
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the sweet potato fries from sticking to the baking sheet.
Step Two
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into long, skinny fries. Ensure that their sizes are approximately the same, this way they’ll cook evenly.
Step Three
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweet potato fries with the olive oil. Toss until every fry is lightly coated.
Step Four
In a small bowl, combine the cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and dark brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
Step Five
Sprinkle the seasoning over the sweet potato fries. Toss until every fry is evenly covered in the spice mixture.
Step Six
Spread the sweet potato fries on your prepared baking sheets in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. This is crucial for achieving crispy fries.
Step Seven
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, then flip over each fry and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until they are crispy and done.
Step Eight
Once cooked, remove the fries from the oven and sprinkle with sea salt to taste.
Step Nine
Let the fries cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Cayenne Pepper Baked Sweet Potato Fries!
