Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip Recipe

Introduction

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip are the perfect combination of crispy, sweet, and savory flavors. These oven-baked fries offer the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, complemented by a light, crispy texture that’s simply irresistible. The addition of the spicy mayo dip brings a delightful kick, balancing out the sweetness of the fries with creamy, zesty heat. Whether you’re craving a satisfying snack, a side dish for a meal, or an appetizer for your next gathering, Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip are a perfect choice. The recipe is easy to make, using just a few ingredients, and it’s a healthier alternative to traditional fries while still offering all the flavor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, offer helpful tips for perfect fries, and suggest variations to make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Deliciously Sweet and Savory: The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes contrasts beautifully with the heat from the spicy mayo dip. It’s a balance of flavors that’s hard to beat.
• Crispy and Light: These fries are baked to perfection, giving them a crisp exterior while maintaining a soft and tender interior. The result is a satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Simple to Make: With just a few pantry staples, you can make this dish in less than 45 minutes. It’s an easy and quick way to enjoy a homemade snack or side dish.
• Healthier Alternative: Unlike deep-fried fries, these sweet potato fries are baked, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious option.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can adjust the level of spice in the mayo dip to suit your taste, and you can experiment with different seasonings for the fries. This dish can easily be made to suit your personal flavor preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40-45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Protein: 2-3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 7-9g

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato Fries:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into fries (about 1/4-inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for added spice

For the Spicy Mayo Dip:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1-2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (adjust to desired spice level)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to balance the heat)
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Start by preparing the sweet potatoes. Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into fries. Aim for uniform pieces, roughly 1/4-inch thick, so they cook evenly. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for consistent sizing.

Once the sweet potatoes are cut, place the fries in a large bowl and rinse them under cold water. This helps remove excess starch, which can make the fries soggy. After rinsing, pat the fries dry with paper towels to ensure they crisp up well during baking.

2. Season the Fries

Drizzle the fries with olive oil, making sure each piece is well-coated. This helps them crisp up in the oven and gives them a beautiful golden color. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Sprinkle the spice mixture over the fries and toss them until they’re evenly coated with the seasonings.

The smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor to the fries, while the garlic and onion powder give them a savory depth. If you like a bit of extra heat, the cayenne pepper provides a mild kick, but this is entirely optional depending on your preference.

3. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent the fries from sticking. Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation, which will help them cook evenly and become crispy.

4. Bake the Sweet Potato Fries

Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the fries for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, flipping the fries halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly on both sides. Depending on the thickness of your fries and the efficiency of your oven, the cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them toward the end.

You’ll know the fries are done when they’re crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. If you prefer extra-crispy fries, you can leave them in the oven for a few more minutes, but be careful not to burn them.

5. Make the Spicy Mayo Dip

While the fries are baking, you can prepare the spicy mayo dip. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well until the ingredients are fully combined. Taste the dip and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if you like it hotter, or more lime juice for a tangier flavor. If the dip is too spicy, a small amount of honey or maple syrup can be added to balance the heat and give the dip a touch of sweetness.

The sriracha sauce adds a fiery kick, while the lime juice brightens the dip and enhances the overall flavor. The mayonnaise serves as a creamy base that cools down the heat from the sriracha, making the dip rich and flavorful.

6. Serve the Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip

Once the sweet potato fries are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Transfer the fries to a serving platter and serve them with the spicy mayo dip on the side. You can garnish the fries with chopped parsley or cilantro for an extra touch of freshness if desired.

This dish is best enjoyed immediately while the fries are hot and crispy, but it can also be served at room temperature for a more casual snack. The creamy, spicy dip complements the sweetness of the fries, making every bite a perfect combination of flavors.

Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Cut the Fries Evenly: For the best texture and even cooking, try to cut the sweet potato fries into uniform sizes. This ensures they all cook at the same rate, giving you consistently crispy fries.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: If the fries are crowded on the baking sheet, they will steam rather than bake, and you won’t get that crispy exterior. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure the fries have enough space.
• Soak the Fries for Extra Crispiness: For an even crispier result, soak the cut sweet potato fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. This helps to remove more starch and results in fries that are even crispier.
• Use a Wire Rack for Extra Crispiness: If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet and arrange the fries on the rack. This allows air to circulate around the fries, making them crispier without needing to flip them halfway through cooking.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder are classic flavors for sweet potato fries, feel free to get creative! You can experiment with other spices such as cumin, chili powder, cinnamon, or even curry powder to give the fries a unique twist.
• Adjust the Spice Level: The heat of the mayo dip is fully adjustable. Start with a small amount of sriracha and add more to suit your personal taste. You can also swap sriracha for other hot sauces like sambal oelek or buffalo sauce.

Variations of Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip

• Sweet Potato Fries with Garlic Parmesan Dip: For a cheesy twist, toss the fries with grated Parmesan cheese after baking. Serve with a garlic-infused dip or a creamy ranch dressing for a rich and savory alternative to the spicy mayo.
• Sweet Potato Fries with Avocado Ranch Dip: Combine mashed avocado with ranch dressing to create a creamy, refreshing dip that pairs wonderfully with the crispy fries. This variation adds a cool and creamy element that balances out the heat of the fries.
• Baked Sweet Potato Fries with Honey Mustard Dip: If you prefer a sweeter dip, try making a honey mustard sauce by mixing together Dijon mustard, honey, and a splash of vinegar. This sweet and tangy dip complements the sweetness of the fries for a delightful flavor combination.
• Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Aioli: For a smoky, spicy dip, blend together mayonnaise, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, and lime juice. This smoky aioli adds depth and heat to the sweet potato fries.
• Curried Sweet Potato Fries with Yogurt Dip: Give your fries an Indian-inspired twist by seasoning them with curry powder before baking. Pair them with a cooling yogurt dip mixed with fresh herbs

like cilantro and mint.

Storage and Shelf Life

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored for later if necessary.

• Storing the Fries: To store the fries, let them cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to crisp them up again.
• Storing the Spicy Mayo Dip: The spicy mayo dip can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before serving as the ingredients may separate during storage.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sweet potato fries. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake the frozen fries in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until they’re crispy.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip pair wonderfully with a variety of other dishes:

• Grilled Chicken or Fish Tacos: The crispy fries make a perfect side dish for grilled chicken or fish tacos, adding texture and flavor to a light, fresh meal.
• Burgers: Serve these fries alongside your favorite burgers for a classic combination that’s sure to please everyone.
• Salads: Pair the fries with a fresh green salad, such as a simple mixed greens salad or a quinoa salad, for a well-rounded meal.
• BBQ Ribs: The sweetness of the fries pairs perfectly with savory barbecue ribs for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

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Conclusion

Sweet Potato Fries with Spicy Mayo Dip are a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing dish that brings together the best of crispy, sweet, and spicy flavors. Whether you’re making them as a snack, an appetizer, or a side dish, these fries are sure to impress with their delicious taste and easy preparation. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Don’t forget to customize the seasoning and dip to your taste, and enjoy this irresistible treat every time!