This is a simplified method for cooking sweet potatoes in a slow cooker, aiming for a softer, slightly caramelized result rather than crispy fries. The slow cooker tenderizes the sweet potatoes, and they can then be finished in the oven or skillet for more browning if desired.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thick fry shapes (about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- Optional seasonings: Garlic powder, paprika, cinnamon, chili powder, etc.
Instructions:
- Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into thick fry shapes. Try to keep the pieces relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- Place in Slow Cooker: Place the cut sweet potatoes in the slow cooker.
- Add Oil and Seasonings: Drizzle the olive oil or melted coconut oil over the sweet potatoes. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings.
- Toss to Coat: Toss the sweet potatoes gently to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of the sweet potato fries. The sweet potatoes are done when they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Optional Browning (Oven): For a bit more browning, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cooked sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until slightly caramelized.
- Optional Browning (Skillet): Alternatively, you can sauté the cooked sweet potatoes in a skillet with a little extra oil over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side until slightly browned.
- Serve: Serve the slow cooker sweet potatoes warm as a side dish.
Tips and Notes:
- Texture: Keep in mind that slow cooker sweet potatoes will have a softer, more tender texture than traditional crispy fries. The optional browning steps can add some caramelization but won’t make them truly crispy throughout.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If you have a lot of sweet potatoes, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Seasoning Variations: Get creative with your seasonings! Sweet potatoes pair well with both savory and sweet spices.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these sweet potatoes with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, aioli, or a spicy mayo.
Enjoy these easy slow cooker sweet potatoes!