These Coconut Tempura Sweet Potato Fries are crispy, light, and deliciously addictive, with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes perfectly complemented by the crunch of coconut. Paired with a tangy and flavorful curry aioli dipping sauce, this dish is a unique twist on traditional fries. Whether you’re looking for a fun snack, a side dish, or an appetizer for your next gathering, these coconut tempura fries are sure to impress!

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

For the Coconut Tempura Sweet Potato Fries

• 20 oz frozen sweet potato fries (or fresh, sliced into fries)

• 1 cup self-rising flour

• ¼ cup toasted coconut (optional)

• 1 cup ice-cold water

• 1 large egg

• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For the Curry Aioli

• ¼ cup olive oil

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 large egg yolk

• 2 tsp fresh lemon juice

• ½ tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• ½ tsp curry powder

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

Directions

1. Heat the oil:
   In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F for frying (about 3 inches up the side of the pot over medium heat).

2. Make the batter:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together self-rising flour and toasted coconut (if using). In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg, then whisk in ice-cold water. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until a batter forms (don’t overmix).

3. Fry the sweet potato fries:
   Once the oil is hot, dip a handful of sweet potato fries into the tempura batter and gently shake off excess. Carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove from the oil and drain on a wire rack. Immediately season with a little kosher salt. Repeat until all fries are cooked.

4. Make the curry aioli:
   In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vegetable oil, egg yolk, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the oil mixture to the egg yolk while whisking vigorously until emulsified and smooth. Chill the aioli until ready to serve.

5. Serve:
   Serve the crispy coconut tempura sweet potato fries hot with the curry aioli on the side for dipping. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 342 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 36 g

• Protein: 6 g

• Fat: 20 g

  • Saturated Fat: 5 g

  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 5 g

  • Monounsaturated Fat: 9 g

• Sodium: 169 mg

• Potassium: 380 mg

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 4 g

• Vitamin A: 13,492 IU

• Vitamin C: 3 mg

• Calcium: 44 mg

• Iron: 1 mg

The Appeal of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes have gained widespread popularity not only for their naturally sweet flavor but also for their impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins like vitamin A, sweet potatoes are a powerhouse for eye health and immune function. They are also a great source of fiber, potassium, and antioxidants, which contribute to heart health and overall well-being. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes makes them a perfect base for this recipe, as it complements the crispy coconut batter and the creamy curry aioli, balancing the savory elements with a subtle sweetness.

Using sweet potatoes in fries allows you to enjoy a healthier alternative to regular white potato fries. The combination of the fiber in the sweet potato and the healthy fats in the curry aioli makes this dish more filling and nutritious than traditional fries, while still offering that comforting, indulgent experience that fries are known for. Whether baked or fried, sweet potatoes offer a rich, naturally sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with various seasonings and toppings.

Tempura Batter: Light, Crispy, and Golden

Tempura is a Japanese cooking technique known for creating a light, crispy batter that envelops ingredients like vegetables, seafood, or even fruits. In this recipe, the tempura batter is used to coat the sweet potato fries, giving them a delicate and airy texture that contrasts wonderfully with the dense, tender sweet potato. The batter itself is simple to make, consisting of self-rising flour, an egg, and ice-cold water, which creates a light and crispy exterior when fried.

The use of ice-cold water is a key element in achieving the perfect tempura texture. Cold water helps keep the batter from becoming too thick or doughy, allowing it to remain light and airy when fried. This results in a crispy, crunchy outer layer that complements the soft, creamy interior of the sweet potato fries. The slight hint of toasted coconut in the batter adds an extra layer of flavor and a bit more texture, making each fry even more delightful.

Coconut: A Flavorful Crunch

Coconut adds another layer of flavor and texture to these fries. Toasted coconut, in particular, provides a subtle nuttiness and an aromatic fragrance that enhances the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes. The addition of toasted coconut to the tempura batter creates a beautiful, crispy coating that adds extra crunch to each fry. Coconut pairs naturally with sweet potatoes, amplifying their inherent sweetness and making the fries more indulgent without overwhelming the other flavors.

The coconut coating not only provides a delightful crunch but also contributes to the overall richness of the dish. Whether you choose to use raw or toasted coconut, it adds a tropical flair that gives the fries a unique twist and a hint of exotic flavor. The combination of coconut and sweet potatoes is a classic pairing, making this dish even more enjoyable for those who appreciate the flavors of coconut.

Frying the Fries to Perfection

The process of frying the fries is crucial to achieving the right texture and flavor. To get that perfect crispy exterior, the oil must be preheated to the right temperature—around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, the fries will burn on the outside before cooking through, while oil that’s not hot enough will result in greasy fries with a soggy coating.

When frying the sweet potato fries, it’s important to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, leading to uneven frying and less crispy fries. Frying in small batches ensures that each fry gets evenly cooked and coated with that crispy, golden crust. After frying, the fries should be drained on a wire rack to allow excess oil to drip off, keeping them light and crispy.

The Curry Aioli: A Perfect Dip for Sweet Potato Fries

The curry aioli serves as the perfect complement to the coconut tempura sweet potato fries. Aioli, a garlicky, creamy sauce, is traditionally made with egg yolks and olive oil, creating a rich and smooth base. In this recipe, the curry aioli adds a tangy, zesty flavor with the addition of Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and curry powder. The garlic and mustard provide a sharp contrast to the sweetness of the fries, while the curry powder adds a depth of flavor and a bit of warmth.

The aioli is simple to make and can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together before serving. As a dipping sauce, it enhances the flavor of the fries by providing a creamy, spicy contrast to the crispy texture of the tempura batter. The combination of the creamy aioli with the sweet, crunchy fries creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you prefer a mild curry flavor or a spicier kick, you can adjust the amount of curry powder to suit your preferences.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Coconut Tempura Sweet Potato Fries are versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. They make an excellent appetizer or side dish for a larger meal. Serve them alongside grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a hearty grain like quinoa for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. These fries also pair well with burgers or sandwiches, offering a fun and flavorful twist on traditional fries.

For a more casual gathering or party, serve the fries as a finger food with the curry aioli on the side for dipping. The bright, zesty flavors of the aioli complement the crispy fries perfectly, making them a crowd-pleasing choice for appetizers. If you’re hosting a dinner or gathering with friends, these fries are sure to impress, offering a unique and flavorful twist on a familiar favorite.

You can also serve these fries as a snack or light meal. The combination of sweet potatoes, coconut, and the creamy curry aioli makes them both filling and flavorful, offering a satisfying bite that works well for a quick meal or an afternoon treat. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them a great option for meal prepping or making in advance.

Health Considerations

While these Coconut Tempura Sweet Potato Fries are indulgent, they also offer several health benefits, particularly due to the use of sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They are also rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function. The addition of coconut and the use of healthy oils like olive oil and vegetable oil help provide healthy fats that support brain and heart health.

The curry aioli, made with olive oil and fresh ingredients, also adds some healthy fats and antioxidants, making this dish a more nutritious option than traditional fries with store-bought dipping sauces. However, since the fries are fried in oil, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie or fat intake.

Conclusion

Coconut Tempura Sweet Potato Fries are a delicious and creative twist on a classic snack. The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the crunchy, flavorful coconut coating, while the curry aioli adds a tangy, creamy contrast that makes these fries truly special. Whether you bake or fry them, these fries are crispy, satisfying, and full of flavor. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a fun snack, a side dish, or an appetizer for a gathering—Coconut Tempura Sweet Potato Fries are sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. The combination of textures and flavors makes this dish a standout, and the curry aioli brings an exciting depth of flavor that will have your guests coming back for more.