How to Make Banana Chips at Home – A Crispy South Indian Snack

Banana chips are one of the most loved South Indian snacks, known for their crisp texture and subtle, salty flavour. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served as a side with traditional Kerala meals, these golden, crunchy chips are a delight. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make banana chips at home, using raw bananas and simple ingredients. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and snack lovers alike.

---

🔍 SEO Keywords to Include:

How to make banana chips

Homemade banana chips recipe

Kerala banana chips

Raw banana chips

Easy banana chips recipe

South Indian snacks

---

📝 What Are Banana Chips?

Banana chips, also called nendran chips in Kerala, are thin slices of raw banana that are deep-fried until crisp and golden. Traditionally, they are made using nendran bananas – a variety of plantain native to Kerala – and fried in coconut oil for a distinct aroma and taste. You can also use other raw (green) bananas or plantains depending on availability.

---

🍌 Ingredients for Homemade Banana Chips:

(Serves 4)

Raw bananas (plantains) – 3 medium

Coconut oil or vegetable oil – for deep frying

Turmeric powder – ½ tsp

Salt – to taste

Water – ½ cup (to dissolve turmeric and salt)

Optional:

Black pepper – for a spicy twist

Chilli powder – for extra heat

---

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Banana Chips

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

Peel the raw bananas. To make peeling easier, cut off the tips and make a slit lengthwise on the skin, then remove it carefully.

Keep a bowl of turmeric water ready by mixing ½ tsp turmeric and 1 tsp salt in half a cup of water.

Using a slicer or mandoline, slice the bananas very thinly into round chips.

> 💡 Tip: Slice directly into the hot oil for maximum crispiness if you're experienced. Beginners should slice into a bowl first for safety.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Heat coconut oil or vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium flame.

Make sure the oil is hot enough – a small banana slice should rise to the top quickly and bubble without burning.

Step 3: Fry the Chips

Add a handful of banana slices into the hot oil, without overcrowding the pan.

After 30 seconds, sprinkle 1–2 teaspoons of turmeric salt water into the oil carefully. It enhances colour and flavour.

Fry the chips, stirring gently, until they turn golden yellow and crisp.

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

Step 4: Cool and Store

Let the chips cool completely before storing.

Transfer to an airtight container to maintain crispness for up to 2 weeks.

---

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Enjoy banana chips as a tea-time snack.

Serve them with Kerala meals, especially during Onam Sadya.

Pair with coconut chutney or pickle for an added zing.

---

🛒 Tips & Variations

Type of banana: Use nendran bananas for authentic Kerala-style chips. Any firm green banana will work.

Oil choice: Coconut oil gives the best flavour, but sunflower or groundnut oil can be used as alternatives.

Spice it up: Add a pinch of black pepper, red chilli powder, or chat masala after frying for a modern twist.

Baked version: If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake or air-fry the chips. Brush with oil and bake at 180°C until crisp.

---

✅ Why Make Banana Chips at Home?

No preservatives – Just pure, fresh ingredients.

Customisable – Control salt, spice, and oil content.

Budget-friendly – Much cheaper than store-bought.

Fun and easy – Great for weekend cooking or festive snacks.

---

💡 Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.):

Calories: 180

Fat: 10g

Carbohydrates: 20g

Protein: 1g

Fibre: 2g

(Note: Values may vary depending on frying method and oil used.)

---

❓ FAQs – Banana Chips Recipe

Q: Can I use ripe bananas for banana chips?

A: No, always use raw or green bananas for crisp chips. Ripe ones will be soggy and sweet.

Q: How to keep banana chips crispy for long?

A: Cool them completely and store in an airtight, moisture-free container.

Q: Are banana chips healthy?

A: While tasty, they are deep-fried. You can use air-frying or baking for a lighter version.

---

📌 Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve learnt how to make banana chips at home, you’ll never go back to store-bought ones. Whether you’re making them for guests, festival snacks, or just evening cravings, this easy South Indian recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and share your crispy creations!

---

Meta Description (SEO):

Learn how to make banana chips at home with this easy South Indian recipe. Crispy, golden and full of flavour – the perfect homemade snack using raw bananas.

how to make banana chips, homemade banana chips recipe, Kerala ban

ana chips, raw banana chips, easy banana chips recipe, South Indian snack recipes

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Stay tuned for more traditional Indian snack recipes, cooking tips, and healthy alternatives!