Ingredients:

  • 2 large (approx. 2 lbs) Sweet Potatoes, firm, long, orange flesh
  • 1 Tbsp Neutral Oil (Avocado or Refined Coconut)
  • 1 tsp Cornstarch (or Tapioca Starch)
  • 1 tsp Chipotle Powder
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Fine Sea Salt (or Kosher Salt)
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • Pinch Flaky Sea Salt (for garnish, optional)
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh Coriander (Cilantro), finely chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cut the Fries: Scrub the sweet potatoes (peeling is optional but recommended for a consistent finish). Slice them into uniform 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick batons. Uniformity is crucial for even cooking.
  2. Soak Out Starch: Place the cut fries in a large bowl and cover them completely with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes. (This removes surface starch, aiding crispness.)
  3. Dry Thoroughly (Crucial Step): Drain the water. Spread the fries in a single layer over a clean kitchen towel or paper towel-lined baking sheet. Pat them aggressively dry. They must be bone-dry before seasoning, or they will steam in the fryer.
  4. Oil Toss: Return the bone-dry fries to the large mixing bowl. Drizzle with the neutral oil and toss until evenly coated.
  5. Dry Seasoning Mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Coat: Sprinkle the dry spice mix over the oiled fries. Toss vigorously until every piece is evenly coated in the seasoning.
  7. Preheat & Load: Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes. Load the fries into the air fryer basket in a single layer, or as close to it as possible. Do not crowd the basket. Work in two to three batches if necessary.
  8. Cook and Shake: Cook the fries for 7 minutes, then open the basket and give it a good, firm shake to redistribute them.
  9. Finish Cooking: Return to the air fryer and cook for another 5 to 10 minutes, checking every 2-3 minutes, until the fries are nicely browned, deeply coloured, and crunchy on the ends.
  10. Serve: Transfer the finished fries immediately to a platter. Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky sea salt and the chopped coriander, if using.