Oven-fried potatoes and onions might not be a typical sweet snack, but you can easily modify it to add a touch of sweetness. Here’s how you could describe the dish with a sweeter twist:
Sweet Oven-Fried Potatoes & Onions: A Perfect Sweet-Savory Snack
This dish is perfect for those days when you want a little something sweet to snack on throughout the day. By swapping regular potatoes for sweet potatoes and caramelizing the onions to bring out their natural sugars, you can create a deliciously sweet and savory snack. The crispy roasted edges of the sweet potatoes combined with the tender, golden onions make for a satisfying treat that you can enjoy any time of the day.
Ingredients
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large red onion, sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a savory kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes and Onions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Cut the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into 1-inch pieces.
- Slice the Onion: Peel and thinly slice the red onion into rings or wedges.
Step 2: Season and Toss
- Toss with Oil and Spices: In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes and onions with olive oil, cinnamon, garlic powder (if using), smoked paprika (optional), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Drizzle with Honey/Maple Syrup: Add honey or maple syrup to the mixture and toss to coat. This will help caramelize the sweet potatoes and onions in the oven.
- Spread Evenly: Spread the seasoned sweet potatoes and onions in an even layer on the baking sheet, making sure not to overcrowd them for maximum crispiness.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
- Roast the Sweet Potatoes and Onions: Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. The sweet potatoes should be crispy on the outside and tender inside, while the onions should be soft and caramelized.
- Optional Baste: For extra sweetness, drizzle more honey or syrup over the sweet potatoes during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish: Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh thyme over the dish for a herby contrast to the sweetness.
- Serve Warm: Serve these sweet oven-fried potatoes and onions as a snack, side dish, or even dessert!
This sweet variation of oven-fried potatoes and onions offers a delightful balance between crispy edges, sweet caramelization, and a hint of spice. It’s a perfect treat for those days when you crave a sweet, healthy snack that still packs a ton of flavor.