Baked sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal, and using an air fryer makes the process quick and easy. Whether you're looking for a side dish that's both satisfying and healthy or a primary dish that's filling and flavourful, sweet potatoes cooked in an air fryer deliver on all counts. In the UK, the popularity of air frying has been on the rise, making it a staple appliance in many households. This guide will take you through the steps to perfect baked sweet potatoes that turn out crispy on the outside and soft on the inside — ideal for any occasion.
Why Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are not just scrumptious; they're also packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Rich in vitamin A, these vibrant root vegetables are excellent for maintaining good vision and immune function. They're also a great source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy without the crash that comes from simple sugars. With their naturally sweet taste, they can complement both savoury and sweet preparations — an incredibly versatile component in cooking.
Benefits of Air Frying
Air frying has become increasingly popular due to its ability to produce similarly crispy results to traditional frying, but with significantly less oil. This method can reduce the fat content of your dishes while still imparting great flavour and texture. For busy home cooks, air fryers are a convenient tool as they often cut cooking times, making your recipes more efficient and still delicious.
Ingredients & Equipment
- 2–4 medium-sized sweet potatoes
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Your favourite herbs (like rosemary or thyme) or spices (such as paprika or cinnamon) – optional
- An air fryer
- A fork
- Knife
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (around 390°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking throughout.
- Rinse and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel.
- Using a fork, poke several holes in each sweet potato. This allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting during the cooking process.
- Lightly coat each sweet potato in olive oil or spray with cooking oil. This helps to crisp up the skin and adds flavour.
- Season the sweet potatoes with salt and pepper. If you want to experiment with flavours, this is when you'd add herbs or spices.
- Arrange the sweet potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spread them out to ensure maximum airflow.
- Cook for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your sweet potatoes and the specific model of your air fryer.
- Test the doneness by inserting a knife or fork into the centre of the largest potato. It should glide in easily when fully cooked.
- Remove from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the sugars inside to caramelise slightly, enhancing the sweet taste.
Serving Suggestions
Baked sweet potatoes can be served in a variety of ways. For a simple dish, you can cut them open and add a dollop of butter or a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar. For a savoury twist, consider topping them with sour cream and chives, or create a complete meal by adding baked beans and shredded cheese.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store your baked sweet potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispy exterior, or microwave them if you're in a hurry.
Conclusion
Baking sweet potatoes in an air fryer is not only a convenient way to prepare and enjoy this versatile vegetable, but it also amplifies its natural sweetness and ensures a delightful texture. Whether paired with your favourite toppings or enjoyed on their own, air-fried sweet potatoes are sure to become a household favourite. Happy cooking!