How to Cook Frozen Sweet Potato Fries? Quick Methods
Got home late and only have frozen sweet potato fries? Here’s a quick tip to help you make crispy, golden sweet potato fries in no time!
How to Cook Frozen Sweet Potato Fries?
There are several ways to cook frozen sweet potato fries, and I’m going to share some simple and common methods with you:
Microwave Version
If you're looking for a quick option, the microwave is your best friend.
Just break the frozen sweet potato fries apart and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium-high for 90 seconds, then flip and heat for another 60 seconds.
While the fries may feel a bit soft right after cooking, they’ll crisp up once they cool down a bit.
Oven Version
The oven method is simple and healthy with no added oil.
Spread the frozen sweet potato fries evenly on a baking sheet, preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F), and bake for about 20 minutes.
Once done, sprinkle with salt or serve with ketchup. The fries will be crispy on the outside and soft on the inside – super delicious!
Fried Version
For a more classic approach, fry them!
Heat oil in a pan to about 150°C (300°F) and fry the frozen sweet potato fries over low heat for 5-10 minutes.
Once they’re golden and crispy, drain excess oil and sprinkle with salt for extra flavor.
Tips:
There's no need to thaw the frozen fries – cooking them directly from frozen gives better results.
Oven and microwave power vary, so adjust cooking times according to your device.
What Is the Best Way to Cook Frozen Sweet Potato Fries?
Frozen sweet potato fries are designed for convenience, and there are many ways to cook them. Different methods result in different textures, so it really depends on your taste preferences.
Personally, I love the oven method the most because it’s healthy and allows the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes to shine through, while keeping the fries crispy on the outside and soft inside – a perfect combo!
Detailed Steps for Oven Cooking:
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 200°C (400°F) and preheat for 3-5 minutes. This ensures the fries cook evenly.
Prepare the fries: Remove the frozen sweet potato fries from the package and spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they don’t overlap, as this can affect the crispiness.
Bake: Place the fries in the middle rack of the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Flip the fries halfway through for even cooking.
Season: Once done, you can sprinkle with salt or add a drizzle of honey and a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Benefits:
The oven method produces fries with a crispy exterior and a soft, tender interior without adding extra oil. It’s both healthy and tasty!
Are Frozen Sweet Potato Fries Healthy?
Frozen sweet potato fries are generally healthy, but the method of cooking will affect how healthy they are.
Sweet potatoes are naturally high in dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and minerals like calcium and potassium, making them a nutritious choice.
When cooked in the oven without oil, they’re a great healthy option and retain most of their natural flavor.
However, frying them in oil increases the calorie content and can cause some loss of nutrients. If you're watching your weight, it’s better to stick with the oven or air fryer methods.
Why Won't My Sweet Potato Fries Get Crispy?
There are several possible reasons for soggy fries:
Sweet Potato Issues:
Sweet potatoes contain a lot of moisture. If not handled properly, they can turn out soft instead of crispy.
To avoid this, pat the fries dry with a paper towel before cooking to remove excess moisture.
Temperature Not High Enough:
Whether frying or baking, if the temperature is too low, the fries won’t crisp up properly.
For frying, the oil should be heated to about 180°C (350°F). For baking, set the oven between 200°C and 220°C (400°F).
Not Enough Cooking Time:
Insufficient cooking time means the moisture inside the fries won’t evaporate, preventing them from becoming crispy.
For frying, cook for 3-5 minutes, then increase the time for an extra minute to crisp them up. For the oven, baking for 20-25 minutes should be enough.
Improper Storage:
If the fries are stored incorrectly and exposed to air, they can lose their crispiness. It’s best to eat them right after cooking. If you need to save them, make sure they’re sealed properly and kept dry.
Can You Cook Frozen Sweet Potato Fries in an Air Fryer?
Yes, you can absolutely cook frozen sweet potato fries in an air fryer! It’s super convenient and comes with several advantages:
Healthier, Low Fat: Traditional frying requires a lot of oil, but the air fryer crisps up the fries without needing any added oil, making it a healthier option.
Simple, Fast, and Easy: Using the air fryer is straightforward and quick. Just toss the fries in the basket, set the temperature and time, and flip halfway through.
Crispy Texture and Unique Flavor: The air fryer’s hot air circulation makes the fries crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, without the greasy feel of deep frying.
Easy Cleanup: Air fryer baskets and trays are usually non-stick, so cleaning up is a breeze compared to traditional frying with oil.
Retains Natural Flavor: Because the air fryer uses less oil, the fries maintain the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes and you can easily add your favorite seasonings.
What Temperature to Air Fry Frozen Sweet Potato Fries?
I recommend setting the air fryer to 180°C to 200°C (350°F to 400°F).
If you want crispier fries, go for 200°C. If you prefer a softer texture, set it at 180°C.
Specific Settings:
180°C (350°F): For crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Cook for 18-20 minutes and flip once during the cooking time.
200°C (400°F): For extra crispy fries. Cook for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Tips:
Different air fryer models may vary slightly in how they heat, so adjust the temperature and time based on the fries and your air fryer’s performance.
