Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges with Lemongrass Mayo

Please don't think of these as regular everyday sweet potato fries.  They are so much more than that!  These sweet potato wedges are mixed with a very lively combination of coriander (lots of it) and red chile pepper.  All that spicy flavor makes for a very savory and mouthwatering crust on the sweet potato wedges.  These wedges are delicious all on their own, but they pair very well with this bright and fresh lemongrass mayo.  I thought these wedges were very satisfying and comforting without weighing you down.  I'm absolutely addicted to them and can't wait to make them again!

Spicy Sweet Potato Wedges with Lemongrass Mayo

Adapted from Plenty

by Yotam Ottolenghi

Serves 4

3 medium sweet potatoes  (about 2 pounds)

4 tablespoons olive oil

1-1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon salt

1 fresh red chile, finely diced

 Lemongrass Mayo

1/2 lemongrass stalk

1/2 cup mayo

grated zest and juice of 1 lime

1/2 inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated

salt and pepper, to taste

Preheat the oven to 400F.  Wash the sweet potatoes but don't peel them. Cut each lengthways in half.  Cut again lengthways into quarters and then once more in the same way so you are left with eight long wedges.

Place them on a roasting pan that has been lined with parchment paper and brushed lightly with some of the oil.  (Note: I didn't use the parchment paper and my wedges stuck slightly.  I worry that the parchment would impede the browning/caramelizing process so I would fore-go it next time as well. Toss the wedges with the remaining oil and sprinkle with a mixture of the ground coriander, finely diced red chile, and salt.  Roast for about 25-30 minutes or until the sweet potato is tender and golden brown.  Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.

To make the dipping sauce:

Very finely chop the lemongrass or grind finely in a spice grinder.  (Note: I found a jar of sliced lemongrass in the Asian section of my supermarket.) Whisk with all of the other ingredients for the dipping sauce and set aside. When ready to serve, place the wedges on a large, flat serving dish. Serve with the sauce on the side.

Theme: You Made Me Love You!