Sweet Potato Strings with Beetroot Ketchup

For the ketchup: Preheat the oven to 220°C. Wrap the beetroots in foil, enclosing completely. Roast the beetroots until very tender when pierced with fork or skewer, 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours. Let the beetroots stand until cool enough to handle. Cut the beetroots into 1-inch chunks and transfer to a food processor. Add the ketchup, vinegar, olive oil, ginger, salt and pepper. Process until the mixture is smooth, 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer the beet ketchup to a small bowl. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper and a pinch of allspice, if desired. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate).

For the sweet potato strings: Using a mandoline or a V-slicer, cut the potatoes into matchstick-size strips 1/8- to 1/4-inch thick and preferably no longer than 4 to 5 inches (if the potatoes begin to discolor, place in a bowl of iced water until ready to use). Pat the potato strips completely dry. Place the flour in a large bowl. In batches, add the potato strips to the flour and toss to coat lightly.

Pour the canola oil into a large wide saucepan. Attach a deep-fry thermometer to the side of the saucepan. Heat the oil between 170°C. Shake off any excess flour from the potatoes.

Working in batches, add the potatoes to the oil and fry until just tender and light golden, maintaining the oil temperature between 150°C, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon or skimmer, remove the potato strings and drain on paper towels.

Sprinkle the potatoes lightly with salt and mound on a platter. Serve with the beetroot ketchup.