Looking for a side dish that packs a punch of flavor and is easy to prepare? This air fryer yams recipe checks all the boxes! With the perfect balance of sweetness and a crispy texture, these yams are sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
Imagine sinking your teeth into tender yams that are caramelized on the outside and soft on the inside. The air fryer makes them quick to cook, giving you that satisfying crunch without deep frying. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or as a delectable addition to your holiday spread.
The Perfectly Crispy Yams
When it comes to side dishes, crispy yams stand out for their unique sweet flavor and satisfying crunch. The method of using an air fryer allows for a quick preparation while retaining the natural sweetness of the yams.
This results in a beautiful contrast between the golden-brown exterior and the tender interior that will surely please any palate.
Each bite is filled with delightful layers of flavor, enhanced by a hint of cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar. This combination creates a sweet experience that complements savory dishes perfectly.
Preparing Your Yams
The first step in crafting these irresistible yams is prepping them correctly. Begin by peeling the yams and cutting them into evenly sized wedges or fries. This ensures that they cook evenly and achieve the desired crispiness.
Once cut, it is essential to season them well. A mixture of olive oil, cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful coating. Toss the yam pieces in a bowl until they are thoroughly coated, allowing the seasoning to enhance every bite.
Cooking Techniques for Crispy Perfection
To achieve that coveted crispy texture, preheating the air fryer is necessary. Setting the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for about five minutes ensures that the yams start cooking in a hot environment, leading to better crisping.
Once preheated, arrange the seasoned yam pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to batch cook. This prevents overcrowding, allowing for uniform cooking and crispness.
Serving Suggestions
After cooking for about 15-20 minutes, the yams will emerge golden and crispy. This is the moment to remove them and let their enticing aroma fill the air.
For an added touch, consider garnishing with fresh herbs. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of freshness to the dish.
Pairing Your Yams
These crispy air fryer yams serve as a versatile side dish, complementing a variety of main courses. They work wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a delightful snack on their own.
To elevate the experience, serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice. A tangy yogurt dip or a spicy aioli can create an exciting flavor combination that guests will appreciate.
Nutrition and Serving Size
Perfect for a family meal, this recipe yields approximately four servings. Each serving contains about 150 calories, making it a nutritious addition to your table.
With a good balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats, these yams can fit nicely into a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delightful dish.
The Perfectly Crispy Yams
These air fryer yams are sweet, buttery, and lightly seasoned, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. With a hint of cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar, every bite is a sweet journey that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 2 large yams, peeled and cut into fries or wedges
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Yams: Peel and cut the yams into fries or wedges, ensuring they are even in size for consistent cooking.
- Season the Yams: In a large bowl, toss the yam pieces with olive oil, cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Yams: Place the seasoned yams in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 15-20 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the yams from the air fryer and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy them hot as a side dish or snack!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 150kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 30g