Garlic Oregano Yam Fries

It’s hard to give up certain food favorites, but if you know what makes them unhealthy, you can make them better! You’ll love these sweet potato fries!

Who doesn't love fresh, hot, and crispy fries? In this recipe we use yams, which are an excellent source of complex carbohydrates and provide your body with long lasting energy. By coating the fries with coconut oil and pumpkin seeds, we've added a boost of healthy fats and protein. These delicious “fries” taste amazing on their own or in combination with a salad, veggie burger, or quinoa. Remember, don't peel away the skin if they are organic; the skin is loaded with fiber and other nutrients!

Garlic Oregano Yam Fries

Ingredients:

• 6 to 8 medium yams
• 2 cloves garlic
• 2 to 4 tablespoons coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons coarsely chopped pumpkin seeds
• 1 tablespoon oregano
• 1 1/2 tablespoons basil
• Sea salt to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 300° F. Cut yams into wedges or chunks. In a bowl, combine the garlic, pumpkin seeds, oregano, coconut oil, basil, and sea salt.

2. Add the yams, stirring with your hands to make sure all of the pieces are covered with the mixture.

3. Spread yams on baking tray lightly oiled with coconut oil. Bake for about 35 minutes, or if you prefer them crispier, leave in oven for an extra 10 minutes.

Why not use white potatoes?

So what's the big deal with white potatoes, and why do people associate them with weight gain? White potatoes are famous for being made into potato chips, fries, or loaded up with butter and cream, and that's where they get their bad rep. Take away the added fat and deep frying and you’re left with a healthy, high fiber food that offers significant protection against heart disease and cancer and is full of vitamins and minerals. White potatoes can be used in this recipe, but the yams add a beautiful orange colour (and dose of beta carotene!) and the naturally occurring sugars caramelize to get that sweet/salty effect.

Give zucchini fries a try too!