Sweet potatoes are a versatile and delicious root vegetable that can be cooked in various ways. One of the quickest and easiest methods to cook sweet potato cubes is by using an air fryer. Air frying is a healthy alternative to deep frying, as it requires little to no oil, and the food still comes out crispy and flavorful. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of cooking sweet potato cubes in an air fryer, ensuring that you end up with a perfectly cooked and tasty snack or side dish.
Gathering the Ingredients and Equipment
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes
Before we jump into the cooking process, it’s essential to pick the right sweet potatoes. Look for firm, unblemished sweet potatoes with smooth skin. The best ones for cubing are medium-sized sweet potatoes, as they are easier to handle and cook evenly.
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
Once you’ve selected your sweet potatoes, it’s time to prepare them for cubing. Start by washing them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Use a vegetable scrub brush to scrub the skin gently if needed. After washing, pat the sweet potatoes dry with a kitchen towel or paper towel.
Gathering the Other Ingredients
Apart from the sweet potatoes, you will need a few more ingredients to add flavor to your dish. These can include olive oil, salt, and any preferred spices or herbs. Feel free to experiment with seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or thyme to enhance the taste according to your preference.
Assembling the Equipment
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to gather the equipment. You will need an air fryer, a sharp knife for cutting the sweet potatoes into cubes, and a mixing bowl to toss the cubes with oil and seasoning. Ensure that your air fryer is clean and in good working condition before you start cooking.
Cutting and Seasoning the Sweet Potato Cubes
Cutting the Sweet Potatoes
With your sweet potatoes washed and dried, it’s time to cut them into cubes. Start by trimming off both ends using a sharp knife. Then, cut the sweet potatoes into slices, around ¼ to ½ inch thick. Afterward, lay the slices flat and cut them into ¼ to ½ inch wide strips. Finally, cut the strips crosswise to obtain sweet potato cubes of equal size.
Seasoning the Cubes
Once you have your sweet potato cubes ready, transfer them to a bowl. Drizzle a tablespoon or two of olive oil over the cubes, ensuring that each piece gets coated. Gently toss the cubes to distribute the oil evenly. This step is crucial as it helps the sweet potatoes brown and become crispy during the cooking process. Additionally, add a pinch of salt and any other desired spices or herbs into the bowl and mix well to season the cubes to your taste.
Air Frying the Sweet Potato Cubes
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the sweet potato cubes, it’s essential to preheat the air fryer. Set the temperature on your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and let it preheat for approximately five minutes. Preheating ensures that the sweet potato cubes cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.
Cooking Time and Techniques
The cooking time for sweet potato cubes in an air fryer may vary slightly depending on the size of the cubes and the brand of the air fryer. However, as a general guideline, you can expect them to be ready in around 15-20 minutes. Remember to give the air fryer basket a shake or stir the cubes halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Checking for Doneness
To determine if the sweet potato cubes are ready, check their color and texture. They should have a golden brown color and be crispy on the outside, while remaining tender on the inside. If needed, add a few extra minutes of cooking time until you achieve the desired doneness.
Serving and Enjoying the Sweet Potato Cubes
Once the sweet potato cubes are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Transfer them to a serving dish and garnish with additional seasonings and herbs if desired, such as freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
These air-fried sweet potato cubes make a delightful snack on their own or a fantastic accompaniment to any meal. They pair well with a variety of dips, such as creamy avocado, tangy sour cream, or spicy sriracha mayo. You can also use them as a topping for salads or grain bowls, or even incorporate them into wraps or sandwiches.
In conclusion, cooking sweet potato cubes in an air fryer is a quick and easy method that yields delicious and healthier results compared to deep frying. With simple preparations and minimal ingredients, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful sweet potato cubes in no time. So, grab your air fryer, gather the ingredients, and start cooking these delectable bites of goodness.