Frequently Asked Questions
What are Oven-Baked Spicy Sweet Potato Fries?
They are a healthier, crispy alternative to traditional fries, coated in egg whites and taco seasoning, then baked to perfection.
How many sweet potatoes do I need for this recipe?
You will need 3 sweet potatoes, washed and cut into even-sized fries with the skin left on.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC) for the best results.
Why are egg whites used in this recipe?
Egg whites act as a binder for the seasonings and help create a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying.
How much taco seasoning should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of taco seasoning, which can be pre-packaged or homemade.
What role does flour play in making sweet potato fries?
Flour is used to coat the fries after the egg wash and seasoning to enhance their crispiness during baking.
Do I need to peel the sweet potatoes?
No, it is recommended to keep the skin on for extra texture and nutritional value.
How do I prevent the fries from sticking to the baking sheet?
Spray the baking sheet with Pam cooking spray and add a generous pinch of salt before arranging the fries.
How long should the sweet potato fries bake?
Bake them for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
What is the secret to getting them extra crispy?
After the initial baking, switch the oven to broil for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden-brown finish.
Should the fries touch each other on the baking sheet?
No, arrange them in a single layer without touching to ensure optimal air circulation and crispiness.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, this recipe is very straightforward and can be ready in under an hour.
Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely, either pre-packaged or homemade taco seasoning works perfectly for this dish.
How much flour is required?
You will need between 2 to 3 tablespoons of flour, depending on your desired level of crispiness.
Is this snack family-friendly?
Yes, these fries are a delicious side dish or snack that the whole family will love.
What equipment do I need to coat the fries with flour?
A large zipper bag is recommended for shaking the seasoned fries with flour to ensure an even coating.
Should the egg whites be whisked?
Yes, whisk the egg whites until they are frothy before dipping the sweet potato fries.
Can I adjust the amount of salt?
Yes, salt can be added to taste to suit your personal preference.
Are these fries vegan-friendly?
The recipe as written uses egg whites, so it is not vegan, though the tags suggest it can be adapted for vegan diets with substitutes.
What should I look for to know the fries are done?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.
Can I prepare these for a party appetizer?
Yes, they make a fantastic option for any weeknight meal or party appetizer.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are a total of 6 ingredients: sweet potatoes, egg white, taco seasoning, flour, cooking spray, and salt.
Is there a specific way to cut the potatoes?
They should be cut into even-sized fry shapes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Can I use a different type of cooking spray?
Yes, while Pam is mentioned, any non-stick cooking spray will work to prevent sticking.
Should I let the fries cool before serving?
Yes, let them cool slightly after removing them from the oven to allow them to crisp up further.
What is the total preparation and cook time?
The entire process, including prep and baking, can be completed in under one hour.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, because they are oven-baked and use minimal fat compared to deep-fried versions, they are a healthier alternative.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you may need to use two baking sheets to ensure the fries remain in a single layer for crispiness.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include sweet potatoes, healthy snacks, oven-baked, crispy, appetizers, and easy recipes.
What dipping sauces pair well with these fries?
You can pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as spicy mayo, ranch, or a lime crema.