How to Make Banana Chips at Home: A Crispy Delight

Banana chips are one of those snacks that tick all the boxes — crispy, tasty, easy to make, and healthier than your usual fried nibbles. Whether you're looking for a mid-day snack, a lunchbox treat, or something to nibble while watching TV, homemade banana chips are a wonderful choice.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making banana chips at home, from choosing the right bananas to slicing, seasoning and frying (or baking/air frying). Let’s get started!

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Table of Contents

1. What Are Banana Chips?

2. Ingredients You Will Need

3. Best Bananas for Banana Chips

4. How to Make Banana Chips (Step-by-Step)

5. Healthier Alternatives: Baked or Air-Fried Banana Chips

6. Popular Variations (Sweet, Spicy & Salted)

7. Storage Tips for Longer Freshness

8. Nutritional Benefits

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

11. Final Thoughts

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1. What Are Banana Chips?

Banana chips are thinly sliced bananas that are either deep-fried, baked, or air-fried until they become golden and crispy. Originating from South Asia, banana chips are now enjoyed worldwide — particularly in India, Sri Lanka, and tropical regions where bananas are plentiful.

They can be salted, sweetened, or spiced depending on preference, and they make an excellent snack that’s both satisfying and wholesome.

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2. Ingredients You Will Need

To make classic crispy banana chips, you'll need just a few basic ingredients:

Basic Ingredients:

Raw bananas (plantains) – 3 to 4

Salt – 1 tsp (adjust to taste)

Turmeric powder – ½ tsp (for colour and slight bitterness)

Water – For soaking

Cooking oil – For deep frying (coconut oil or sunflower oil preferred)

Optional Seasoning (after frying):

Black pepper

Chilli powder

Chaat masala

Sugar (for sweet chips)

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3. Best Bananas for Banana Chips

The best banana chips are made using raw (unripe) plantains or firm green bananas. These have a starchy texture which crisps up beautifully when fried, unlike ripe bananas that turn mushy.

Tip:

> Avoid using ripe bananas, as they contain too much sugar and moisture which results in soggy chips.

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4. How to Make Banana Chips (Step-by-Step)

Here’s a simple step-by-step recipe for traditional deep-fried banana chips:

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

Peel the raw bananas.

Slice them thinly and evenly using a mandolin slicer or knife. Thin slices ensure even cooking and better crispiness.

Soak slices in water mixed with turmeric and salt for 10 minutes. This removes excess starch and adds flavour.

Step 2: Drain and Dry

Drain the slices and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel. Ensure there's no moisture before frying.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.

Once the oil is hot, drop in a few slices at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan.

Step 4: Fry the Chips

Fry until the chips turn golden and crisp. This usually takes 3–5 minutes.

Remove using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Season and Cool

While still warm, season the chips with salt, chilli, pepper or sugar depending on your preference.

Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

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5. Healthier Alternatives: Baked or Air-Fried Banana Chips

If you're looking for a health-conscious alternative, you can bake or air-fry banana chips:

Baked Banana Chips

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

Arrange banana slices on a baking tray lined with parchment.

Brush lightly with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Air-Fried Banana Chips

Lightly coat slices with oil.

Air-fry at 180°C for 12–15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway.

> These methods cut down on oil without compromising on crunch!

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6. Popular Variations

Here are a few flavourful takes on classic banana chips:

Salted Banana Chips

Just plain salt – perfect for traditional snacking.

Spicy Banana Chips

Add red chilli powder, black pepper or peri-peri masala after frying.

Sweet Banana Chips

Fry ripe bananas and sprinkle with sugar or jaggery powder.

Kerala-Style Chips

Fry in coconut oil and season with turmeric and salt — iconic in South Indian cuisine.

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7. Storage Tips for Longer Freshness

To keep your banana chips fresh and crisp:

Store in an airtight container once completely cooled.

Keep away from moisture or heat.

Add a small packet of silica gel (optional) to absorb humidity.

Properly stored, banana chips can last for up to 2–3 weeks.

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8. Nutritional Benefits

While banana chips are a treat, they do come with some health perks:

Nutrient Approx. Value (per 100g)

Calories 520 kcal

Carbohydrates 58g

Dietary Fibre 4g

Potassium High

Iron Moderate

> Baked or air-fried versions are lower in calories and fat compared to deep-fried ones.

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9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using ripe bananas: Leads to soggy chips.

Thick slices: Take longer to cook and don’t crisp well.

Frying on low heat: Makes chips absorb more oil.

Not drying slices properly: Causes splattering during frying.

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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use ripe bananas?

A: Ripe bananas are not suitable for frying. Stick to raw or firm bananas for the best texture.

Q2: How long can I store homemade banana chips?

A: Up to 2–3 weeks if stored in a dry, airtight container.

Q3: Can I add flavours?

A: Absolutely! Try chilli powder, black salt, or even cinnamon sugar.

Q4: Are banana chips gluten-free?

A: Yes, plain banana chips are naturally gluten-free.

Q5: Which oil is best for frying?

A: Coconut oil for a traditional flavour, or sunflower oil for a neutral taste.

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11. Final Thoughts

Making banana chips at home is not just easy — it’s also economical, customisable, and healthier than shop-bought versions. Whether you prefer them salted, spicy, or sweet, the joy of biting into a crispy banana chip you made yourself is unmatched.

So the next time you’re craving a crunchy snack, skip the processed stuff and try your hand at homemade banana chips. Your tastebuds (and wallet) will thank you!

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📌 Don’t forget to share this guide and bookmark it for later!

👍 Have a tip or twist on banana chips? Drop it in the comments below!

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--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.