Jerk Sweet Potato Street Fries

Updated January 5, 2026

Introduction

These Jerk Sweet Potato Street Fries reimagine classic sweet potato fries with bold Caribbean-inspired flavors, featuring a zesty jerk seasoning blend, aromatic sautéed vegetables, and a vibrant lime garnish. Perfect for sharing, they balance crispy texture with complex, savory-spicy notes, embodying the energy of street food culture.

Ingredients

Serves 4–6

Base Ingredients

• 2 medium sweet potatoes (≈450–500g), peeled and cut into uniform fries (1/2-inch thick; adjust thickness for crispiness preference)

• 3 tbsp avocado oil or extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 2 tsp jerk seasoning (salt-free option available)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp sea salt

• 1 tsp dried thyme

Aromatic Topping

• ½ red bell pepper, diced (≈¼ cup)

• 4 scallions (green onions), trimmed; white and green parts separated

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

• ½ tsp whole black peppercorns

• ½ tsp freshly grated nutmeg

Garnishes

• 1 tsp lime zest (from 1–2 limes)

• Fresh lime wedges (for squeezing)

• Fresh cilantro, chopped (≈¼ cup)

Equipment

• Air fryer (4–5 quart capacity) or oven-safe baking sheet

• Parchment paper (for oven method)

• Small saucepan

• Mixing bowl

• Chef’s knife, cutting board

• Slotted spoon

• Measuring spoons/cups

Preparation

Air Fryer Method

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 5 minutes to ensure uniform heat distribution. This step is critical for achieving optimal crispiness.

Step 2: Season the Sweet Potato Fries

In a large mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato fries with 1 tbsp of the oil, jerk seasoning, garlic powder, sea salt, and dried thyme. Mix thoroughly to coat each fry evenly, ensuring all surfaces are seasoned.

Step 3: Air-Fry the Fries

Arrange the seasoned fries in a single layer within the air fryer basket, leaving ½-inch of space between each fry to allow heat circulation. If the basket is too crowded, cook in 2–3 batches. Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air-fry for 10–15 minutes. Midway through cooking (at 7–8 minutes), pause the air fryer and gently shake the basket to rotate the fries, ensuring even browning. The fries are ready when golden and crispy on the edges.

Step 4: Prepare the Aromatic Topping

While the fries cook, heat the remaining 2 tbsp of oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the diced red bell pepper, scallion white parts, minced garlic, grated ginger, whole black peppercorns, and nutmeg. Stir continuously for 1 minute until fragrant and the garlic/ginger release their oils (be careful not to burn). Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Transfer the crispy fries to a serving platter. Spoon the warm aromatic topping over the fries, distributing it evenly. Finish with lime zest, chopped cilantro, scallion green parts, and a generous squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately to maintain crispiness.

Oven-Roasting Alternative

For oven preparation:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Spread the seasoned fries in a single layer on the sheet, ensuring no overcrowding.

• Bake for 35–40 minutes, rotating the sheet halfway through (at 15–20 minutes) for even browning.

• Proceed with the aromatic topping and garnishes as directed.

User Feedback & Variations

Tasting Notes

"Delicious as-is. Next time I make this, I’ll double the scallion/pepper mixture—it added bright, citrusy notes alongside the lime. I served them topped with pan-fried sausage for extra heartiness."

What Defines These as "Street Fries"?

Unlike plain sweet potato fries, these feature Caribbean jerk seasoning (a blend of chili, allspice, and warm spices), a vibrant sautéed vegetable topping, and fresh lime accents. The combination of crispy texture, bold flavors, and shareable plating mirrors the lively, aromatic profile of street food, elevating a simple root vegetable dish into a restaurant-worthy experience.

Final Tips

• For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne to the jerk seasoning.

• Use a mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform sweet potato fries.

• Substitute scallions with green onions or chives for garnish.

Enjoy these vibrant, flavor-packed street fries as a standalone snack, appetizer, or main dish!