Baked Taro Fries with Lemon-Dill Yogurt Dip
Enjoy a healthier take on fries with these crispy-on-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside baked taro sticks, perfectly complemented by a bright and tangy lemon-dill Greek yogurt dip.
For 4 servings
Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Peel the taro roots using a vegetable peeler. Cut each taro into even, fry-shaped sticks, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick and 3-4 inches long. For extra crispiness, you can rinse the cut taro under cold water to remove excess starch, then thoroughly pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.
In a large bowl, combine the prepared taro sticks with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Toss well until all the taro sticks are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Arrange the seasoned taro sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. If necessary, use two baking sheets to avoid steaming the fries.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the fries halfway through (around 12-15 minutes), until they are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside. Keep an eye on them towards the end as oven temperatures can vary.
While the taro fries are baking, prepare the lemon-dill yogurt dip. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, finely chopped fresh dill, minced garlic clove, remaining 1/4 tsp kosher salt, and remaining 1/8 tsp black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Taste the dip and adjust seasoning if needed. For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the dip for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Once the taro fries are done, remove them from the oven. Serve immediately with the chilled lemon-dill yogurt dip.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Even Cutting is Key:** Ensure your taro sticks are cut to a similar size and thickness for uniform cooking. Uneven pieces will result in some being undercooked and others burnt.
- 2**Don't Overcrowd the Pan:** For truly crispy fries, arrange them in a single layer with a little space between each piece. Overcrowding leads to steaming, not baking, resulting in soggy fries.
- 3**Pat Dry for Crispiness:** After cutting and rinsing taro, thoroughly patting them dry removes surface moisture, which is crucial for achieving that desired crispy exterior when baking.
- 4**Make Dip Ahead:** The lemon-dill yogurt dip can be made several hours or even a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the taro seasoning for a fiery twist.
Herbaceous DipHerbaceous Dip
Substitute dill with fresh chives, parsley, or a mix of your favorite soft herbs for a different flavor profile in the dip.
Sweet Potato AlternativeSweet Potato Alternative
If taro is unavailable, sweet potatoes can be prepared and baked in the same way, offering a naturally sweeter fry.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Fiber
Taro root is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Good Source of Protein
The Greek yogurt dip provides a significant amount of protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and keeping you feeling full.
Nutrient-Dense
Taro offers vitamins and minerals like Vitamin E, B6, potassium, and manganese, while dill adds Vitamin A and C, contributing to overall health.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until golden and crispy. Adjust cooking time as needed for your specific air fryer model.
