Are you craving a crunchy, healthy snack? Look no further! Crispy banana chips are the perfect treat, and you can make them in just 10 minutes. Whether you have an oven or not, I’ll show you two simple methods to create these delicious chips. Let’s get started!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2-3 ripe but firm bananas
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: cinnamon
No-Oven Method: Using a Stovetop
- Prepare the Bananas:
- Peel the bananas and slice them thinly into uniform pieces. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick slices for the best results.
- Toss the banana slices in a bowl with lemon juice and a pinch of salt. This helps to prevent browning and adds a slight tangy flavor.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a slice of banana sizzles immediately when added.
- Fry the Banana Slices:
- Carefully place the banana slices into the hot oil in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the skillet.
- Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until the slices are golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the banana chips from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the chips cool for a few minutes. They will become even crispier as they cool.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired and enjoy your crispy banana chips!
Oven Method:
- Prepare the Bananas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and slice the bananas into thin, uniform pieces, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Toss the banana slices in a bowl with lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
- Bake the Banana Slices:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the banana slices in a single layer.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the chips cool completely. They will become crispier as they cool.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon or sugar if desired and enjoy your oven-baked banana chips!
Tips for Perfect Banana Chips:
- Choose Firm Bananas: Ripe but firm bananas work best as they hold their shape and crisp up nicely.
- Uniform Slices: Make sure to slice the bananas uniformly for even cooking.
- Monitor Cooking: Whether frying or baking, keep a close eye on the chips to avoid burning.
Conclusion
Making crispy banana chips at home is quick, easy, and a great way to enjoy a healthy snack. With both no-oven and oven methods, you can choose the one that suits you best. Give this recipe a try and savor the delightful crunch of homemade banana chips!
