Best Easy Candied Sweet Potato Recipe

Glistening candied sweet potato with a crackly sugar shell is a classic Chinese dessert. A family treat with naturally sweet, caramelized flavor.

Cook 45 min Difficulty NORMAL 270 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Sweet potatoes 2 lbs
  • Vegetable oil 2 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Sugar 1 cup
  • Water 4 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 57 g 84%
Protein 2 g 3%
Fat 3 g 13%
Serving size 150g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into bite-sized wedges, about 1-inch thick, keeping them similar in size for even cooking.

  2. 2

    Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F—a steady sizzle forms around a wooden chopstick.

  3. 3

    Fry the sweet potato pieces in batches for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and tender but not falling apart. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

  4. 4

    In a clean, dry pan, combine sugar and water; cook over medium heat, gently swirling (not stirring) until the syrup turns a pale golden color and large bubbles form.

  5. 5

    Quickly return the fried sweet potato to the pan, tossing until each piece is coated in glossy, thick syrup. Once the sugar begins to crystallize and harden on the outside, immediately transfer the potatoes to a parchment-lined tray to set. Serve warm for the ideal crisp shell.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this candied sweet potato recipe?
The core ingredient is sweet potatoes, which deliver a naturally sweet and earthy base that caramelizes beautifully when fried and candied. The crackly sugar shell formed from the sugar syrup defines the classic texture and flavor of this dish.
Q. What is the critical cooking point for a perfect sugar shell?
The most important cooking moment is when the sugar syrup turns a pale golden color and bubbles thicken—add the fried sweet potatoes at this stage to ensure an even, crisp coating. Over-cooking the syrup can quickly turn it bitter or cause it to harden too fast.
Q. How can I prevent the sugar shell from becoming soggy or sticky after coating?
Immediately transfer the candied sweet potatoes to a parchment-lined tray as soon as they are coated with syrup. Allowing them to cool undisturbed helps the sugar form a crisp shell rather than turning sticky. Work quickly and avoid stacking pieces.
Q. How many calories and carbs are in one serving?
Each serving (150g) contains about 270 kcal, with approximately 57g of carbohydrates, making up 84% of the total calories.
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