If you love crunchy, sweet snacks, dried banana chips are a fantastic treat you can easily make at home. Not only are they delicious, but making them yourself means you avoid the extra sugars and oils often found in store-bought versions. Ready to learn how to make dried banana chips? Let’s dive into a simple, friendly guide that will have you snacking on homemade banana chips in no time!
What Are Dried Banana Chips?
Dried banana chips are thin slices of bananas that have been dehydrated or baked until crisp. They make a perfect snack on their own or a tasty addition to cereals, trail mixes, or desserts. Unlike fried banana chips, homemade dried versions are healthier because they use less oil and no added preservatives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Bananas: Choose ripe but firm bananas. They should be yellow with little to no brown spots and not too soft, so they slice well and hold their shape.
– Lemon Juice: This helps prevent the banana slices from browning and keeps them looking fresh during drying.
– Optional: A little oil (like coconut or olive oil) for extra crispiness if you’re baking or air frying, and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg if you want to add flavor.
Equipment Options
– Oven
– Air fryer
– Food dehydrator
You can make banana chips using any of these, depending on what you have at home.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Dried Banana Chips
1. Prepare the Bananas
– Peel the bananas and slice them thinly-aim for about 1/4 inch thick. Using a mandolin slicer can help get even slices.
– To keep the slices from turning brown, soak them in a mix of lemon juice and water (about 1 part lemon juice to 4 parts water) for a few minutes.
2. Drying Methods
Oven Method
– Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature setting (around 170-250°F or 75-120°C).
– Drain the banana slices and pat them dry with a paper towel.
– Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t overlap.
– Optionally, lightly brush or spray the slices with oil for crispiness.
– Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping halfway through, until the chips are golden and crisp.
– For extra crispness, you can turn off the oven and leave the chips inside overnight.
Air Fryer Method
– Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
– Toss the banana slices lightly with oil and lemon juice.
– Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket (you may need to do batches).
– Air fry for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.
– Let cool before eating.
Dehydrator Method
– Lay the lemon-soaked banana slices in a single layer on dehydrator trays.
– Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
– Dry for 8 to 12 hours, checking occasionally, until the chips are stiff and no longer sticky.
Tips for Perfect Banana Chips
– Use firm bananas for the best texture.
– Slice evenly to ensure uniform drying.
– Don’t overcrowd your drying trays or baking sheets.
– If you like, sprinkle cinnamon or a pinch of salt before drying to add flavor.
– Store your dried banana chips in an airtight container to keep them crisp.
Why Make Your Own Banana Chips?
Homemade banana chips are healthier and more cost-effective than store-bought ones. You control the ingredients, avoiding excess sugar and unhealthy fats. Plus, the process is fun and rewarding-you get a tasty snack that’s naturally sweet and packed with fiber and potassium.
Enjoy your crunchy, homemade banana chips as a snack, a salad topper, or a sweet treat anytime!
Ready to try making your own? What method do you think you’ll try first-oven, air fryer, or dehydrator?