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Sweet potatoes are a versatile and healthy vegetable that can be cooked in countless ways. When fried to crispy perfection and paired with the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary, they create an irresistible side dish that will steal the spotlight on your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight side or something to impress guests at your next gathering, this Fried Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. In just five simple steps, you’ll have a delicious and flavorful dish that is both crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to love Fried Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary, but here are a few of the best ones:
- Crispy Texture, Soft Interior: The combination of frying and the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes gives you the perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, creamy inside.
- Simple and Quick: This recipe requires just a few basic ingredients and can be made in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Herbaceous Flavor: The rosemary adds a fresh, fragrant quality to the sweet potatoes, elevating the dish with its aromatic, savory notes.
- Versatile Side Dish: These fried sweet potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to vegetarian meals, making them a versatile option for any meal.
- Healthier Alternative: Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Frying them in small batches with a touch of oil ensures you get all the delicious flavor without the heaviness of deep frying.
Ingredients
For Fried Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary, you’ll need the following ingredients to achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and savory goodness:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges or thin strips
- 2 cups vegetable oil (or any oil suitable for frying)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
- Salt and pepper to taste
These simple ingredients come together to create a side dish that’s not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. You can adjust the amount of rosemary or salt to match your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Directions
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the easy steps for making Delicious Fried Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary:
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into your preferred shape—either wedges or thin strips. Wedges work well if you want a more substantial bite, while strips are perfect for crispy “fries.” Make sure each piece is relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Pat the sweet potato pieces dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps in achieving the crispy texture during frying.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a deep frying pan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of sweet potato into it. If it crackles right away, the oil is ready to use. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of potato into the oil—if it starts bubbling around the edges, it’s ready to fry!
Step 3: Fry the Sweet Potatoes
Carefully add the sweet potato pieces into the hot oil in batches, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan. Adding too many pieces at once can decrease the oil’s temperature, leading to soft rather than crispy fries. Cook the sweet potatoes in small batches for 3–5 minutes, until they turn golden brown and develop a crispy exterior with a tender center. Use a slotted spoon to lift the fries from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil.
Step 4: Season with Rosemary and Salt
While the sweet potatoes are still hot, toss them with finely chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. The warmth of the potatoes will help release the aroma of the rosemary, ensuring it infuses into the fries for the perfect flavor balance.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the sweet potatoes are well-coated with the rosemary and seasoning, plate them up and serve immediately while they’re crispy. You can garnish with a little more fresh rosemary if desired for added visual appeal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information for Fried Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 6g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Potassium | 550mg |
| Vitamin A | 184% of DV |
| Vitamin C | 30% of DV |
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is great for vision and immune health. They’re also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you full.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes for this recipe?
While regular potatoes can be used, sweet potatoes offer a sweeter flavor that complements the rosemary perfectly. If you prefer regular potatoes, feel free to substitute, but the taste will be a bit different.
2. Can I make these fried sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Fried sweet potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sweet potatoes ahead by cutting them and storing them in water to prevent browning. Reheat the fried sweet potatoes in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness.
3. Can these sweet potatoes be baked instead of fried?
Yes! To make a healthier version, you can bake the sweet potato wedges or strips at 425°F (220°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and tender. Toss them with rosemary and seasoning just like in the fried version.
4. How can I store leftover fried sweet potatoes?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To restore their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Cooking Method Alternatives
While frying provides the best crispy texture, there are a few alternatives that can also yield great results:
- Baking: As mentioned, you can bake sweet potato wedges at high heat (425°F/220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Frying: If you have an air fryer, you can toss the sweet potatoes with oil and rosemary, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Grilling: For a smoky flavor, you can grill the sweet potatoes on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, brushing them with olive oil and seasoning.
Final Serving Suggestions
These Fried Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary can be served with a variety of dishes to create a well-rounded meal. Here are some ideas:
- With Grilled Meat: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or lamb for a delicious protein-packed dinner.
- As a Snack: Serve these crispy sweet potatoes as an appetizer or a side with a dipping sauce like ranch, spicy ketchup, or garlic aioli.
- In a Salad: Toss the fried sweet potatoes in a salad with greens, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, balanced meal.
Fried Sweet Potatoes with Rosemary are a perfect side dish for any occasion—whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests. With just five easy steps, you can create a flavorful, crispy, and nutrient-packed dish that’s sure to impress. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, combined with the savory aroma of rosemary, creates a harmonious flavor profile that complements any meal. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be making it again and again!