With the increased hours in the sun come BBQs, potlucks, and outdoor themed parties.  For me, parties and gatherings scream ways to try new recipes, especially ones that are typical crowd favorites but twisted…  Who doesn’t like French fries!?!  Of course these French fries are not just French Fries…  They’re gluten-free, not deep-fried, and offer a great crunch to a meal.

Garnet potatoes are NOT yams but they are ‘sweet potatoes’.  Yams are not sweet like ‘sweet potatoes’ and their nutrient composition differs; for example, yams have more calories and carbohydrates.  The sweet taste of garnet potatoes make them ideal for this savory dish.  Garnet potato flesh is a mellow/golden orange tinge and when cooked the color becomes a bright yellow rather than a slight yellow that is usually noted with most restaurant fries. The skin and flesh are loaded with antioxidants (beta carotene and phytonutrients) as well as vitamin A, vitamin C, and fiber.  The diverse nutrient content of garnet sweet potatoes can assist with blood sugar regulation, proper blood clotting, and decreasing risks associated with heavy metal and oxygen radical exposure.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 large 90% skinned garnet potatoes; sliced and thickly julienned (assorted lengths with varying bits of the red skin showing)
• 1 small yellow onion; minced
• 4 tbsp coconut oil; melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• 1/4 tsp lemon grass powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp yellow mustard

METHODOLOGY:

1. Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. In a small bowl combine all the spices and mix thoroughly.
3. Coat a rectangular baking dish/Pyrex container with melted coconut oil.
4. Toss the julienned potatoes into the coated dish and sprinkle the spices atop.  Aim to cover as much of the potatoes with the spices then add in the remaining oil if there is any.
5. Cook in the oven for 50-60 minutes until the potatoes are a golden-yellow and are slightly browned.  After about 25 minutes it is recommended to use a spatula and toss the potatoes to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove from heat.
7. Serve as a side dish or simply as a snack with homemade aioli or ketchup.
8. Time to smack your lips!

xxx – Sarah