How to Make Crispy Banana Chips at Home ?

Banana chips are a delicious and crunchy snack made by slicing raw bananas into thin rounds and either deep-frying or baking them. Popular across many countries, especially in South Asia and parts of Africa, banana chips are known for their sweet or savory taste depending on how they are prepared. These chips are not only tasty but also make for a healthy alternative to processed snacks when made at home with minimal oil and natural ingredients.

Whether you’re craving a salty bite or something mildly sweet, this banana chips recipe is perfect for any time of the day.

Let’s dive into how you can make your own crispy banana chips right in your kitchen!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

To prepare banana chips at home, you’ll need the following equipment:

• A sharp knife or a mandoline slicer
• A deep-frying pan or wok (for fried version)
• Baking tray and oven (for baked version)
• Paper towels
• Large mixing bowl
• Slotted spoon or frying ladle
• Airtight container (for storing the chips)

What Do You Need to Prepare Banana Chips?

Ingredients:

• 4 raw green bananas (plantains preferred)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for color)
• Salt to taste
• Water (for soaking)
• Oil for deep frying (coconut oil or sunflower oil works best)

Optional Flavor Variations:

• Black pepper powder
• Chaat masala
• Red chili powder
• Sugar (for sweet version)
• Garlic powder (for a spicy kick)

How to Make Easy Banana Chips Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Selecting and Peeling the Bananas

Choose firm, unripe green bananas for best results. Rinse the bananas and slice off both ends. Make a lengthwise slit in the peel and gently remove the skin without breaking the banana.

Step 2: Slicing the Bananas

Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife to cut the bananas into thin, even slices. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and crispy texture. Place the slices in a bowl of water mixed with turmeric to prevent discoloration.

Step 3: Drying the Slices

Drain the water and pat the banana slices dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Removing excess moisture is essential for getting crispy chips.

Step 4: Frying the Banana Chips

Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (test with a small slice), drop the banana slices in batches. Fry until golden and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle salt and any additional seasoning while they are hot.

Step 5: Cooling and Storing

Let the banana chips cool completely. Store in an airtight container to retain freshness and crunch.

Variations

Banana chips can be made in multiple ways, offering diverse flavors and health benefits. For a baked version, lightly brush banana slices with oil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. For an air fryer version, air fry slices at 160°C (320°F) for 10-12 minutes. Season them with sea salt, pepper, or paprika for a healthier twist.

For those who love sweet snacks, a sweet banana chips version involves soaking ripe banana slices in sugar syrup and then frying or dehydrating them. Add cinnamon or cardamom for extra flavor.

You can also explore spicy banana chips by tossing them in red chili powder, black salt, and garlic powder after frying. In South Indian style, chips are often seasoned with a mix of turmeric, salt, and hing (asafoetida).

Cooking Note

Using raw green bananas (plantains) is crucial because ripe bananas contain more sugar, making them sticky and unsuitable for chips. Keep the oil temperature moderate while frying—too hot and the chips burn; too cold and they absorb too much oil. Always fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chips.

For maximum crispiness, make sure the banana slices are dry before frying. Wet slices can cause oil splatter and uneven frying. Also, seasoning should be done immediately after frying when the chips are still hot, ensuring the flavors stick better.

If you prefer less oil, opt for baking or air frying. These methods are ideal for health-conscious individuals and still offer a good level of crunch when done properly. If baking, use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Banana chips make a versatile snack that pairs well with almost anything. Serve them:

• As a standalone snack with tea or coffee
• Alongside sandwiches or wraps as a crunchy side
• With a dip such as guacamole, salsa, or yogurt-based dips
• Crushed on top of salads for added texture
• As part of a snack platter with nuts and dried fruits

They are also great to carry for road trips, picnics, or school lunchboxes. Serve them in decorative bowls at parties or gatherings they disappear fast!

Helpful Tips

1. Choose the right banana: Use raw plantains or green bananas, not the ripe yellow ones.
2. Uniform slicing: Use a mandoline slicer for even thickness, ensuring even frying.
3. Soaking in turmeric water: This helps avoid oxidation and adds a slight yellow color.
4. Dry thoroughly: Moisture leads to oil splatter and soggy chips.
5. Don’t overcrowd: Fry in small batches for consistent results.
6. Season when hot: Add salt and spices immediately after frying.
7. Oil type: Coconut oil adds a traditional flavor, but sunflower oil is neutral.
8. Cool completely before storing: This ensures they stay crispy.
9. Try air-frying or baking: Great for a low-fat alternative.
10. Store properly: Use an airtight container to keep chips fresh longer.

Tips for the Best Banana Chips

For the best banana chips, always start with firm green bananas and slice them as thinly as possible. Thinner slices equal crispier chips. Maintain consistent oil temperature while frying to avoid undercooked or burnt chips. The ideal frying temperature is around 350°F (175°C).

Adding flavor while the chips are hot helps absorb the seasoning better. Keep your chips in a cool, dry place and use them within a week for the best taste and texture. For enhanced taste, experiment with spices such as paprika, cumin, or even BBQ seasoning.

Prep Time/ Cooking Time/ Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per 1 cup serving approx)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 1.2g
• Sodium: 110mg

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• Crispy & Delicious Funnel Cake Bites Recipe
• Hawaiian Butter Mochi Recipe
• Lemon Lavender Cookies Recipe
• Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
• Authentic Italian Torrone Recipe
• Homemade Peanut Butter Dog Treats

FAQs

Q1: Can I use ripe bananas for this recipe?
No, ripe bananas are too soft and sweet. Use green, firm plantains.

Q2: How long can I store banana chips?
Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days at room temperature.

Q3: Can I reuse the oil after frying?
Yes, but strain it and store it separately for reuse within a couple of days.

Q4: Are banana chips healthy?
When baked or air-fried with minimal oil and salt, banana chips can be a healthy snack.

Q5: Why are my banana chips not crispy?
They may not have been sliced thin enough or fried at the right temperature.

Conclusion

Banana chips are an easy and rewarding snack to make at home. Whether you prefer them salty, spicy, or sweet, you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste. By following the steps and tips in this guide, you’ll be able to make perfectly crispy and tasty banana chips every time.

So grab some green bananas and start frying, baking, or air-frying your way to snack heaven!

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