These sweet potato wedges use peri peri spice blend, originating from African cuisine, which combines heat with aromatic spices to create a bold, flavourful coating. However, it’s the cornstarch that makes them crispy. This is a delightful snack, which also provides nutrition as sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins B and C.
Mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, dried oregano, ground ginger, sea salt, chilli flakes, crushed cardamom, and cinnamon powder in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly. Set aside 2 tablespoons for coating the fries and store the rest in an airtight container.
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Prepare the sweet potatoes
Wash and peel the sweet potatoes thoroughly. Cut them into even-sized fries, approximately ½ inch thick. Place the cut fries in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let them soak for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. After soaking, drain the fries and rinse them under cold water. Pat them completely dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen cloth. This step is crucial for achieving crispy fries.
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Coat the fries
Preheat your oven to 220°C. Toss the dried sweet potato fries with olive oil in a large bowl. Mix until evenly coated. Sprinkle cornstarch over the fries and toss again to ensure even distribution. The cornstarch helps create an extra crispy exterior. Add salt to taste.
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Bake the fries
Arrange the coated fries in a single layer on a large baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure they're not overcrowded, as this can cause them to steam instead of crisp. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they're golden brown and crispy on the edges.
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Season and serve
Remove the fries from the oven and immediately sprinkle them generously with the peri peri seasoning while they're still hot. Toss to coat evenly. The heat helps the spices adhere better to the fries.
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Prepare the dipping sauce
While the fries are baking, prepare the yoghurt dip. In a small bowl, combine Greek yoghurt, finely chopped coriander, mint, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well and refrigerate until serving.