Sweet Potato Waffle Fries (gf,vg) Recipe

1. Preheat & prepare

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If you plan to air-fry, preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).

2. Wash & cut

Scrub the sweet potatoes well and dry. Using a mandoline with a waffle/waffle-cut blade or a waffle fry cutter, slice the sweet potatoes into waffle-shaped rounds about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thick, rotating each cut 90° between passes to create the lattice pattern. If you don't have a mandoline, use a sharp knife to make crisscross cuts to approximate a waffle pattern, but take care for safety.

3. Toss with coating

In a large bowl combine cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne and sea salt. Add the olive oil and stir to create a loose paste. Add the waffle-cut sweet potato slices to the bowl and gently toss until each piece is evenly coated. Do not overcrowd the bowl; work in batches if needed.

4. Arrange for baking

Arrange the coated waffle fries in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly so hot air can circulate. Avoid overlapping; use both sheets if necessary.

5. Bake (oven)

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes, then rotate the sheets top-to-bottom and front-to-back. Bake another 10–12 minutes until edges are crisp and centers are tender when pierced with a fork. For extra crispness, switch to the oven broiler for 1–2 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning.

6. Air-fryer option

If using an air fryer, arrange fries in a single layer in the basket (work in batches). Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking basket once or twice, until crisp and lightly browned.

7. Finish & season

When fries are done, remove to a cooling rack or a paper-towel-lined tray to avoid sogginess. While still hot, sprinkle with a light pinch of additional salt if desired and scatter chopped fresh parsley over the fries.

8. In a small bowl whisk together vegan mayo, ketchup, sriracha, lemon juice and salt until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more sriracha for heat or more lemon for brightness. Serve chilled or at room temperature alongside the hot waffle fries.