Can you freeze sweet potato fries? (And how to do it)
Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthier alternative to regular French fries. They are a great addition to any meal, and the good news is that you can freeze them to enjoy later. Freezing sweet potato fries is a convenient way to have them on hand whenever you need a quick and tasty snack or side dish. In this article, we will explore how to properly freeze sweet potato fries to ensure they retain their flavor and texture.
Why Freeze Sweet Potato Fries?
Freezing sweet potato fries has several advantages. First, it allows you to prepare a large batch of fries in advance, saving you time in the long run. Instead of going through the process of peeling, cutting, and seasoning sweet potatoes every time you want fries, you can do it all at once and freeze the extras. This is especially useful if you have a busy schedule or want to prep meals for the week.
Another benefit of freezing sweet potato fries is that they are cost effective. Homemade fries are generally cheaper than store-bought ones, and by making a large batch and freezing them, you can save money on your favorite snack or side dish.
The best way to freeze sweet potato fries
Follow these steps to effectively freeze sweet potato fries:
Step 1: Make the fries
Begin by peeling the sweet potatoes. You can use a peeler to do this. Once peeled, cut the sweet potatoes into fries. You can use a crinkle cutter, a fry cutter, or a knife for this step.
After cutting, rinse the fries in a colander under cold water to remove excess starch. This will help keep the fries crisp and prevent them from sticking together during cooking or storage.
Divide the fries into bowls, with about two large potatoes of fries in each bowl. This portion size is ideal for serving and freezing.
Step 2: Blanch the fries
Blanching the Sweet Potato Fries before freezing helps preserve their flavor and texture. Follow these instructions to blanch the fries:
- Drop a bowl of fries into boiling water for 2 minutes.
- Remove the french fries from the boiling water and immediately transfer to ice-cold water. Leave in cold water for up to 20 minutes.
- After blanching, place the fries on a dry tea towel or kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
Blanching is optional but highly recommended as it slows down enzyme reactions that can affect the flavor and texture of the French fries during storage.
Step 3: Dry and season fries
After blanching, pat the French fries dry with paper towels. It’s important to remove any visible water to prevent ice crystals from forming during freezing.
If desired, season the French fries with salt, paprika, pepper, cumin, or any other seasoning of your choice. This step adds extra flavor to the fries.
Step 4: Freeze the fries
Divide the fries into portions or use individual freezer bags for each portion. Place the fries in the freezer bags, making sure they are sealed properly to prevent freezer burn.
Sweet Potato Fries can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. However, it’s important to note that their flavor and texture may gradually deteriorate over time.
To keep track of the freezing date, consider labeling the bags with the date they were prepared. This will help you identify the shelf life and ensure that you use the oldest fries first.
How to cook frozen sweet potato fries
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen sweet potato fries, there are several cooking methods you can use:
Cooking in the oven:
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place desired number of servings of frozen French fries on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle fries with vegetable or olive oil for extra crunch (optional).
- Season fries with your favorite seasonings.
- Bake the fries for 40 to 45 minutes, turning or shaking occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Cooking in a fryer:
- Preheat the fryer to the recommended temperature.
- Add the frozen sweet potato fries to the hot oil, being careful as they may spit at first.
- Fry the fries for about 3 to 5 minutes or until golden brown on the outside and pale on the inside.
- Use a fork or tongs to check the doneness of the French fries by cutting or tasting one.
Cooking on the stove:
- In a frying pan, heat a small amount of vegetable oil to medium-high heat.
- Add the frozen sweet potato fries, spreading them out in a single layer.
- Fry fries for 3 to 5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Remember to adjust the cooking time based on your preference for crispness. When cooked, remove the fries from the oven, fryer or stove and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
Freezing sweet potato fries is a convenient way to have a delicious and healthier alternative to regular potato fries on hand. By following the proper steps, you can freeze sweet potato fries without sacrificing their flavor and texture. Whether you bake, fry or boil them on the stove, your frozen sweet potato fries can be enjoyed anytime as a tasty snack or side dish. So go ahead, make a big batch of sweet potato fries, freeze them, and enjoy the convenience of having them on hand whenever the craving strikes.
FAQS
Can I freeze sweet potato fries?
Yes, you can freeze Sweet Potato Fries. Freezing them allows you to have a convenient and ready-to-cook snack or side dish whenever you want.
How long can I keep frozen Sweet Potato Fries?
You can store frozen Sweet Potato Fries in the freezer for up to 6 months. However, it’s best to consume them within the first 3-4 months for optimal flavor and texture.
Do I need to blanch Sweet Potato Fries before freezing?
Blanching Sweet Potato Fries before freezing is optional, but highly recommended. Blanching helps preserve the flavor and texture of the fries during storage.
Can I season the Sweet Potato Fries before freezing?
Yes, you can season your Sweet Potato Fries before freezing. Seasoning the fries before freezing allows the flavors to infuse, which will enhance their flavor when cooked.
How do I reheat frozen Sweet Potato Fries?
To reheat frozen sweet potato fries, you can either bake them in the oven at 425°F for 10-15 minutes or until crisp, or fry them in hot oil for a few minutes until golden brown and heated through.
Can I refreeze sweet potato fries after they thaw?
It is not recommended to refreeze Sweet Potato Fries once they have been thawed. Thawed fries may have a change in texture and quality, so it’s best to consume them after the initial thawing.