Banana chips are a tasty, crunchy treat that’s easy to make at home. Whether you want a healthy snack or a sweet and salty bite, banana chips are perfect. In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make banana chips using different methods, including baking and frying, with tips to get them just right every time.
What Are Banana Chips?
Banana chips are thin slices of banana that are dried or fried until crispy. They can be made from ripe or unripe bananas and are often seasoned with salt, spices, or a touch of sweetness. These chips make a great snack on their own or a crunchy topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or salads.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Bananas (ripe for sweet chips, unripe/green for savory chips)
– Lemon juice (to prevent browning and add a slight tang)
– Water
– Salt
– Optional: cinnamon, black pepper, chili powder, or oil (for frying or coating)
How to Make Banana Chips: Two Popular Methods
1. Oven-Baked Banana Chips (Healthy and Easy)
Baking banana chips is a simple way to enjoy a crunchy snack without deep-frying. Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-step:
– Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
– Slice bananas very thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Thin slices become crispier.
– In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice with 4 tablespoons water.
– Brush or dip the banana slices in the lemon-water mixture to prevent browning.
– Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
– Optionally, sprinkle a little salt or cinnamon for flavor.
– Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are crisp.
– Let the chips cool on the baking sheet; they will crisp up more as they cool.
Tips:
– Using ripe bananas gives a sweeter chip; unripe bananas yield a firmer, less sweet chip.
– Baking low and slow dehydrates the bananas, concentrating their flavor without burning them.
– Store cooled chips in an airtight container; they keep well for up to two weeks.
This method is great for a healthy snack that’s vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly.
2. Deep-Fried Banana Chips (Traditional and Crunchy)
For a classic, crunchy banana chip, deep-frying is the way to go, especially with unripe bananas.
Step-by-step:
– Peel 4 medium-sized raw, unripe bananas.
– Slice them thinly using a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness.
– To prevent discoloration, slice directly into a bowl of water.
– Drain the slices and pat dry completely with a kitchen towel.
– Heat oil in a deep pan or wok to medium heat.
– Fry the banana slices in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
– Stir gently to prevent sticking.
– Fry until the bubbling slows and chips turn golden and crisp.
– Remove and drain on paper towels.
– While still warm, sprinkle with salt and crushed black pepper or chili powder for extra flavor.
– Once cooled, store in an airtight container.
Tips:
– Thin slicing is key for crispiness.
– Avoid overcrowding the pan to keep chips crispy, not soggy.
– These chips are savory and perfect for snacking or as a side.
This method is popular in many cultures and yields a deliciously crunchy snack.
Flavor Variations to Try
– Sweet Cinnamon Chips: Use ripe bananas, brush with lemon water, sprinkle cinnamon before baking.
– Spicy Chips: After frying, toss with chili powder or cayenne for a spicy kick.
– Herbed Chips: Add dried herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory twist.
– Salted Chips: A simple sprinkle of kosher salt enhances the natural banana flavor.
Tips for Perfect Banana Chips Every Time
– Slice bananas evenly for uniform cooking.
– Use lemon juice to prevent browning and add a fresh flavor.
– For baking, patience is key—low temperature and long baking time yield the best crispness.
– Store chips in airtight containers to maintain crunch.
– Experiment with thickness: thinner slices are crispier, thicker slices are chewier.
Why Make Banana Chips at Home?
– Control ingredients: avoid preservatives and excess sugar.
– Customize flavors to your liking.
– Cost-effective compared to store-bought chips.
– Fun and easy kitchen project.
Banana chips are a versatile, delicious snack that’s simple to make with just a few ingredients and basic kitchen tools. Whether you bake or fry them, you’ll enjoy a crunchy treat that’s perfect anytime.
Enjoy your homemade banana chips as a snack, party treat, or topping for your favorite dishes!