30 Minute Root Vegetable Fries

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sweet potatoes
• 3-4 large carrots
• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp cornstarch
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp freshly-cracked black pepper
• fine sea salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 500°F and set a heavy duty baking sheet (one that can take high heat) in the oven to preheat.
2. Peel the sweet potatoes and carrots (if desired) and cut off the ends.
3. Cut the potatoes and carrots in half lengthwise and then, if they are very long, in half crosswise.
4. Cut each piece into 1/4" to 1/2" thick wedges.
5. Put the sweet potatoes and carrots into a large bowl and add the oil. Mix well to combine.
6. Sprinkle with salt and spices, then use your hands to mix well, so all pieces are coated with oil and spices.
7. Remove the preheated baking sheet from the oven and carefully spread the veggies out in a single layer on the baking sheet. (Watch out, the pan is hot!)
8. Bake for 20 minutes. After the first 10 minutes, remove the baking sheet from the oven and rotate to allow for even cooking.
9. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until they are well browned.
10. When ready let the fries cool for 5 minutes before serving.

NOTE: Try to cut the veggies evenly so they all cook at about the same rate. For best browning results, bake only one sheet at a time. For extra caramelization, sprinkle fries with a little sugar before putting in the oven. For richer flavor, try swapping out half of the oil with melted butter.