Banana chips are a delicious and crispy snack that’s popular in many parts of the world, especially in South India. Salted banana chips are the perfect treat for anyone who loves crunchy snacks with a hint of savory flavor. They are easy to make and are a healthier alternative to many other fried snacks, provided they are prepared with care.
Here’s a simple recipe to make salted banana chips at home.
Ingredients:
- 4-5 raw (green) bananas (not ripe)
- 1 ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- Water (for soaking)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
1. Peel and Slice the Bananas:
- Start by peeling the raw bananas. The best way to do this is to cut off both ends of the banana and make a shallow slit along the skin. Peel it off carefully.
- Once peeled, slice the bananas into thin, round slices using a mandoline slicer for even thickness. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife will work as well, but try to keep the slices as uniform as possible for even cooking.
2. Soak the Banana Slices:
- Immediately after slicing, soak the banana slices in a bowl of water to prevent them from browning. This also helps to remove some of the starch from the bananas, which makes them crispier when fried.
- Leave the slices in the water for around 5-10 minutes, then drain and pat them dry with a clean towel or paper napkin. Removing the excess moisture is crucial to achieve a crisp texture.
3. Prepare the Seasoning:
- In a small bowl, mix the salt and turmeric powder together. This simple seasoning will give the chips a beautiful golden color and a balanced, savory flavor.
4. Heat the Oil:
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. You need enough oil to submerge the banana slices for frying.
- To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of banana into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
5. Fry the Banana Chips:
- Carefully drop a handful of banana slices into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed. Stir occasionally to ensure the slices cook evenly.
- Fry the chips until they turn golden brown and crisp. This should take about 3-5 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices and the temperature of the oil.
- Remove the chips with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Season the Chips:
- While the chips are still warm, sprinkle the prepared salt and turmeric seasoning evenly over them. Toss them gently to ensure that all the chips are coated with the seasoning.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the chips to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. This will ensure they stay crispy for longer.
- Serve the salted banana chips as a snack with tea or as an accompaniment to your meals.
Tips for Perfect Banana Chips:
- Choice of Bananas: Use unripe (green) bananas for the best results. Ripe bananas will not crisp up properly.
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. Too low, and the chips will absorb too much oil; too high, and they might burn quickly.
- Seasoning Variations: You can experiment with different seasonings like chili powder, garlic powder, or black pepper for added flavor.
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 weeks.
Health Benefits of Banana Chips:
- Rich in Fiber: Bananas are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Potassium: Bananas are high in potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure and heart function.
- Energy Boosting: Banana chips provide a quick source of energy, making them a great snack for active people.
Enjoy these crispy and savory salted banana chips as a quick snack or a party treat. They’re easy to make and are sure to be a hit with family and friends!
