Assalamu Alaikum, my lovely readers! Ramadan Mubarak to you all! It’s Shahena here, your British Bengali mum of four from London, back with another quick and wholesome recipe that’s perfect for Iftar. Today, I’m sharing my Baked Sweet Potato Fries – a delicious, healthy, and fuss-free snack that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Sweet potatoes are one of my favourite ingredients during Ramadan. They’re naturally sweet, packed with vitamins, and incredibly versatile. These baked fries are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and seasoned to perfection. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy them guilt-free! Even my little ones love them (and that’s a win in my book!). Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or a snack, these fries are a must-try.
Baked Sweet Potato Fries Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder
- 1/2 tsp chilli powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander or parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Method
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. - Prep the sweet potatoes:
Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into even-sized fries. Try to keep them roughly the same thickness so they cook evenly. - Season the fries:
In a large bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, cumin powder, chilli powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated with the seasoning. - Bake to perfection:
Spread the fries out in a single layer on the prepared baking tray. Make sure they’re not overcrowded – this helps them crisp up nicely. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy on the edges. - Serve and enjoy:
Transfer the baked sweet potato fries to a serving plate and garnish with fresh coriander or parsley if you like. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice – my family loves them with a simple yoghurt dip or a bit of spicy ketchup.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Iftar
- Healthy and baked: These fries are crispy and delicious without the guilt of deep-frying.
- Packed with nutrients: Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, fibre, and antioxidants, making them a great addition to your Iftar table.
- Quick and easy: It takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy mums like me.
Tips and Tricks
- Cut them evenly: Try to cut the fries into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the tray: Spread the fries out in a single layer to ensure they crisp up properly.
- Switch up the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different spices – smoked paprika, rosemary, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese work beautifully.
A Little Note from Me
These baked sweet potato fries have become a Ramadan staple in our house. They’re quick, healthy, and always a hit with the whole family. Plus, they’re so versatile that you can enjoy them in so many ways. Sometimes, I even pack them for Suhoor – they’re just as tasty the next morning!
I hope you and your family enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Let me know how it turns out, and if you have any special twists you like to add. Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan filled with love, peace, and plenty of delicious Iftar meals.
Much love,
Shahena 💕
P.S. Don’t forget to save some for Suhoor – they’re just as good the next morning! 😉