Ingredients:

  • 2 large Sweet Potatoes (approx. 700g total), washed and scrubbed
  • Cold Water (for soaking)
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) High-Heat Oil (such as Avocado, Grapeseed, or refined Coconut oil)
  • 1 Tbsp (15 ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp (22.5 ml) Cornstarch (or Cornflour)
  • 1 1/2 tsp (7.5 ml) Fine Sea Salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) Smoked Paprika (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Cut Uniformly: Slice the sweet potatoes into fries approximately 1/4 inch (6-7 mm) thick. Uniformity is crucial for even cooking.
  2. Soak the Starch: Place the cut fries into a large bowl and cover them completely with very cold water. Allow them to soak for a minimum of 30 minutes. This pulls excess starch out, which prevents sogginess.
  3. Rinse and Drain: Drain the fries thoroughly in a colander. Rinse them briefly under cold water.
  4. Dry Completely: Spread the fries in a single layer over clean kitchen towels or a thick layer of paper towels. Pat them completely dry until bone-dry. Residual moisture will cause steaming.
  5. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to a blistering 425°F (220°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Oil First: Return the dried fries to the empty bowl. Drizzle with both the high-heat oil and the olive oil. Toss until every fry is lightly coated.
  7. Cornstarch and Seasoning: Sprinkle the cornstarch, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using) over the oiled fries. Toss vigorously for 1 minute until the cornstarch is evenly distributed and the fries look slightly chalky.
  8. Spread and Space: Divide the seasoned fries evenly between the two prepared baking sheets. Ensure the fries are in a single layer with breathing room between them. Do not overcrowd.
  9. Initial Bake (Top Rack): Place one tray on the upper rack of the oven. Bake for 10 minutes.
  10. Flip and Swap: Remove the trays, flip every single fry using tongs or a spatula. Swap the positions of the trays (moving the top one to the bottom, and vice versa) and return them to the oven.
  11. Final Bake: Continue baking for another 10–15 minutes, until the fries are deeply golden brown and crispy at the edges.
  12. Serve Immediately: Remove from the oven and serve straight away while they are still piping hot.