Bali-Style Spiced Sweet Potato Fries: A Fun Snack for Kids
Looking for a tasty, healthy snack for your kids in Bali?
These Bali-Style Spiced Sweet Potato Fries are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make! Using fresh local sweet potatoes and a touch of tropical spices, this kid-friendly recipe is perfect for snacks or side dishes.
What are Spiced Sweet Potato Fries?
Spiced sweet potato fries are a healthier alternative to regular fries, made with naturally sweet and nutritious sweet potatoes.
In this Bali-inspired version, we use local ingredients like coconut oil and aromatic spices to create a delicious, crispy treat your kids will love!
Bali-Style Inspiration
Local Sweet Potatoes: Fresh and easily found in Bali’s markets.
Coconut Oil: Adds a subtle tropical aroma and is a healthier frying option.
Balinese Spices: A hint of turmeric and cinnamon for a flavorful twist.
Sea Salt: Enhances the natural sweetness.
Ingredients for 4 Kids
Sweet potatoes: 3 medium-sized (peeled and cut into strips)
Coconut oil: 2 tablespoons
Turmeric powder: ½ teaspoon
Cinnamon powder: ½ teaspoon
Sea salt: ½ teaspoon
Fresh cilantro: 2 tablespoons (chopped, for garnish)
Steps to Prepare
Step 1: Prep the Sweet Potatoes
Start by peeling the sweet potatoes and cutting them into thin strips or wedges.
This will help ensure they cook evenly and become crispy. To remove excess starch and make the fries crispier, soak the sweet potato strips in cold water for about 15 minutes.
This step is essential for achieving that perfect crunchy texture when baking the fries. After soaking, pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove any moisture, ensuring they bake up crisp and golden.
Step 2: Season the Fries
Once the sweet potatoes are dry, place them in a large bowl. Toss the sweet potato strips with melted coconut oil, turmeric powder, cinnamon powder, and sea salt.
The coconut oil adds a subtle tropical flavor, while turmeric and cinnamon give the fries a unique Balinese spice twist.
These spices not only enhance the flavor but also bring health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties from turmeric.
Mix the fries thoroughly to ensure every strip is coated with the seasoning.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
Spread the seasoned sweet potato fries in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring there is enough space between each fry.
This will help them cook evenly and become crispy. Bake the fries for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides are golden and crispy.
The exact cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the strips, so keep an eye on them.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once the fries are baked and crispy, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
For an extra burst of freshness, sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top.
The cilantro adds a touch of color and complements the Balinese spices perfectly. Serve the Bali-style spiced sweet potato fries hot, either on their own or with a delicious dip like yogurt or sweet chili sauce for an added flavor punch.
These fries are perfect for snacking, side dishes, or as a healthy option for kids.
Additional Tips for Perfect Sweet Potato Fries
Cut Evenly: For the fries to cook evenly, it’s essential to cut the sweet potatoes into uniform strips. This ensures consistent baking and a perfect texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the fries plenty of space on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can cause them to steam instead of crisping up.
Experiment with Spices: If you enjoy a little extra kick, try adding a dash of paprika or cumin along with the turmeric and cinnamon. These spices will elevate the flavors, giving your fries a deeper complexity.
By following these steps, you’ll create Bali-style spiced sweet potato fries that are crispy, flavorful, and full of tropical goodness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 180
Fat: 7g
Carbs: 27g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Q: Can I fry these instead of baking?
A: Yes, you can fry them in coconut oil for a crispier texture.
Q: Are these fries suitable for toddlers?
A: Yes, just ensure the fries are soft and cut into smaller pieces.
Q: How can I make these fries spicier?
A: Add a pinch of paprika or a dash of black pepper for a mild kick.
Q: Can I store leftover fries?
A: Yes, store them in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.