How to make crispy and delicious banana chips

Banana chips are a healthy, versatile, and easy snack to prepare at home. With a naturally sweet flavor and a crispy texture, they are perfect for complementing your meals or enjoying at any time of the day. Below, we will explain how to make crispy and delicious banana chips in a simple way.

Necessary Ingredients

To prepare your own banana chips, you will need:

• Green bananas or very ripe bananas, depending on your preference.
• Oil (you can use olive, coconut, or sunflower oil).
• Salt (optional).
• Additional optional seasonings like cinnamon or sugar if you prefer a sweeter version.

Tips on Bananas

It is important to select the right type of banana. Green bananas offer a crunchier texture, while ripe bananas are sweeter and softer. For an authentic flavor, it is advisable to use bananas that are not overly ripe.

Preparation Method

1. Preparing the Bananas

Start by peeling the bananas. Use a sharp knife to cut off the ends of each banana and then carefully remove the skin.

2. Slicing the Bananas

Slice the bananas into thin rounds. A thickness of about 0.5 cm is ideal to ensure they become nice and crispy. If you want to increase the number of chips, you can mix bananas of different ripeness for a varied flavor.

3. Soaking in Water

A trick to achieve tastier chips is to soak the banana slices in salted water for a few minutes. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps maintain their color. Make sure to rinse the bananas well to remove any excess salt before drying them.

4. Drying the Slices

After rinsing, place the banana slices on a clean cloth or paper towels to dry them completely. This is crucial, as excess moisture can prevent the chips from becoming crispy.

5. Frying or Baking

Now you can choose how to cook your chips:

• Frying: Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the banana slices in portions, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 2 to 4 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove from heat and place on absorbent paper to eliminate excess oil.

• Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Arrange the banana slices on a baking tray, ensuring they are spaced evenly. Spray with a little oil and bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You will know they are ready when they are golden and crispy.

6. Cooling and Storing

Once cooked, allow the chips to cool at room temperature. This will help them become even crispier. You can store them in an airtight container once they are cool and enjoy them at any time.

Variations and Additional Tips

• Spices: You can experiment with different spices, such as cinnamon, paprika, or even a little chili powder for a spicy kick.
• Sweeteners: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can sprinkle a bit of sugar after taking them out of the oven.

Banana chips are a healthy and delicious snack option that you can pair with dips, yogurt, or enjoy on their own. If you are looking for more recipes and tips on healthy snacks, feel free to visit my blog for more reading.