Follow these simple steps to create the most amazing air-fried sweet potato wedges you’ve ever tasted!

1. Prepare the Sweet Potatoes:
   • Wash and scrub the sweet potatoes thoroughly. There’s no need to peel them, as the skin gets wonderfully crispy and contains extra nutrients. However, you can peel them if you prefer.
   • Trim off the ends of the sweet potatoes.
   • Cut each sweet potato in half lengthwise. Then, cut each half lengthwise again, so you have four long quarters.
   • Depending on the thickness of your sweet potatoes, cut each quarter lengthwise into 2 or 3 even-sized wedges, aiming for about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thickness. Consistent sizing is key for even cooking.
2. Soak the Wedges (Optional but Recommended for Extra Crispiness):
   • Place the cut wedges in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. This step helps remove excess starch, which contributes to a crispier exterior.
   • After soaking, drain the wedges thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. This is crucial – excess moisture will steam the potatoes instead of crisping them.
3. Season the Wedges:
   • In a large bowl, add the thoroughly dried sweet potato wedges.
   • Drizzle with olive oil (or avocado oil) and toss well to ensure each wedge is lightly coated.
   • In a small separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
   • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled wedges. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring each wedge is evenly coated with the spices.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps the wedges start crisping immediately.
5. Air Fry the Wedges:
   • Arrange the seasoned sweet potato wedges in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket! Work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding will lead to steaming and soggy wedges instead of crispy ones. There should be some space between the wedges for the hot air to circulate effectively.
   • Air fry for 10-15 minutes, then pause the air fryer, pull out the basket, and give the wedges a good shake or flip them with tongs for even cooking and crisping.
   • Continue to air fry for another 5-10 minutes, or until the wedges are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your wedges and your specific air fryer model.
   • Start checking for doneness around the 15-minute total mark. They should be easily pierced with a fork.
6. Serve Immediately:
   • Once cooked to perfection, carefully transfer the hot sweet potato wedges to a serving platter.
   • If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives.
   • Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Repeat the air frying process with any remaining wedges, ensuring not to overcrowd the basket each time. You might find subsequent batches cook a little faster as the air fryer is already hot.