Sweet Potato Fries
Desserts • India
How to Make Sweet Potato Fries (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sweet Potato Fries, known locally as Shakarkandi Fries, are a delicious and healthy alternative to regular potato fries in Indian cuisine. Traditionally, shakarkandi (sweet potato) is enjoyed during the winter months in India, often roasted on coal and sprinkled with chaat masala and lemon juice by street vendors. This homemade baked version brings a nutritious spin while keeping the beloved flavors intact. With their natural sweetness and crispy texture, sweet potato fries make for a perfect tea-time snack or a light dessert, especially during festivals like Navratri and Diwali, when fasting-friendly and wholesome recipes are in demand. In India, sweet potato is valued for its energy-boosting properties, making these fries a popular choice for health-conscious families. The combination of Indian spices like jeera (cumin) and mirch (red chili powder) adds a burst of flavor, appealing to both adults and children. Easy to prepare and requiring minimal oil, these fries are ideal for anyone tracking calories or aiming for a nutritious snack without compromising on taste.
Ingredients(for 1 cup baked sweet potato fries)
- 2 medium (about 300g) Shakarkandi (Sweet Potatoes) (peeled and cut into thin sticks)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil (or cold-pressed mustard oil for Indian flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Chaat masala (adds tangy Indian flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Jeera powder (Cumin powder)
- 1/4 teaspoon Lal mirch powder (Red chili powder) (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Kala namak (Black salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon Haldi (Turmeric powder) (optional, for color and health) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Cornflour (for crispiness, can use besan for variation)
- 1 teaspoon Nimbu ka ras (Lemon juice) (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon Hara dhania (Fresh coriander) (finely chopped, for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 220°C (428°F) or set your air fryer to 200°C. Meanwhile, peel and cut the shakarkandi into thin, even sticks for uniform cooking.
5 minutes
Ensure fries are of similar size for even crispiness.
- 2
Soak the cut sweet potato sticks in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel.
10 minutes
This step helps make the fries extra crisp.
- 3
In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried sweet potato sticks with olive oil, cornflour (or besan), chaat masala, jeera powder, lal mirch, kala namak, and haldi if using.
3 minutes
Mix well so each fry is evenly coated with spices and oil.
- 4
Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or directly in the air fryer basket.
2 minutes
Do not overcrowd for maximum crispiness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Sweet Potato Fries recipe is a healthy choice because it uses shakarkandi, which has a lower glycemic index than regular potatoes, supporting steady blood sugar. Baking instead of frying significantly reduces unhealthy fats, making it suitable for weight loss and heart health. The use of Indian spices and lemon juice adds antioxidants and flavor without added sugar or excessive salt, making it a wholesome snack or dessert for calorie-conscious eaters.
Sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and antioxidants like beta-carotene (Vitamin A), making them excellent for eye health and immunity. They provide essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium, while being naturally gluten-free and low in fat. Using minimal oil and baking instead of deep-frying helps retain nutrients and keep the calorie count moderate. The addition of Indian spices boosts metabolism and adds flavor without extra calories.
Pro Tips
- 💡Cut fries evenly for uniform baking and crispiness.
- 💡Soak fries in cold water to remove extra starch and enhance texture.
- 💡Add chaat masala and lemon juice after baking for maximum flavor.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover fries in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 180.0 kcal |
