Ever find yourself stuck with a tray of roasted sweet potatoes that, while flavorful, lacked that satisfying crispy element? After numerous rounds of experimenting in my kitchen, I discovered a game-changer for achieving the perfect balance of a sweet, soft interior and a crispy exterior. Plus, there’s no frying involved. The secret? A sprinkle of cornstarch.
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This one-ingredient upgrade has transformed my roasted sweet potatoes from tasty but soggy to delicious and reliably crispy. It’s a simple trick that uses something you likely already have in your pantry, proving that you don’t need to invest in fancy ingredients to elevate your cooking.
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Why Cornstarch Works Wonders on Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Cornstarch is typically used to , but when applied to cubed sweet potatoes before roasting, it acts as a barrier that absorbs moisture, allowing the outside to crisp up beautifully in the oven without drying the inside. It’s a texture contrast that elevates the entire dish.
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How To Achieve Crispy Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F, for crisping up vegetables in the oven. Wash (or peel) your sweet potatoes and cut them into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. I opt out of peeling my potatoes—both to save time and because I prefer the texture of the peel when roasted.
For two large sweet potatoes, you’ll need about one tablespoon of cornstarch. Place the cut sweet potatoes in a large bowl, sprinkle the cornstarch over them, and toss until they’re evenly coated. Make sure no wet spots are left uncoated; this is your ticket to that crispy texture you crave.
Now that your potatoes are lightly coated in cornstarch, it’s time for oil and seasoning. I typically go for extra virgin olive oil, but avocado, coconut, or any high-temperature oil will work just fine.
Don’t hold back on seasoning. A generous pinch of salt, pepper, and any of your favorite herbs or spices are welcome additions. My favorite combo is garlic powder, cumin, and a dash of paprika along with salt and pepper. The cornstarch doesn’t just contribute to texture; it also creates a surface that seasonings stick to, intensifying the flavors.
Spread the coated sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they’re not touching too much. This space is vital for the heat to circulate and lock in that all-around crisp.
If you opt for fries rather than cubes, I’d recommend laying them on a wire baking rack so hot air circulates each fry. Roast them for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning. If you use a wire rack, there’s no need to flip halfway through.
2 Things to Watch Out For
While this method is relatively straightforward, there are a couple of pitfalls to avoid:
1. Overcrowding the Pan: Giving the sweet potatoes enough room on the pan is non-negotiable. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, which means hello to soggy potatoes and goodbye to the crispiness you’re aiming for.
2. Too Much Cornstarch: While it’s the star of the show, using too much cornstarch can result in a powdery texture. Stick to the recommended amount—about one tablespoon for two large sweet potatoes—and you’ll be golden.