Banana Chips are a delicious and healthy snack that offer the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a satisfying crunch. Whether baked or fried, these chips are a great alternative to traditional snacks, providing a source of fiber and essential nutrients. Perfect for munching on their own or adding to trail mixes, granola, or yogurt, banana chips are a versatile treat that’s both easy to make and convenient to store. With a hint of salt or cinnamon, they can be sweet or savory, making them a favorite for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe but firm bananas
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (for baking) or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Pinch of salt (optional)
- Ground cinnamon or sugar (optional, for a sweet version)
Instructions
Baked Banana Chips:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the bananas: Peel the bananas and slice them evenly into thin rounds, about 1/8 inch thick.
- Toss with lemon juice: In a bowl, toss the banana slices with the lemon juice to prevent browning and maintain their color.
- Arrange on the baking sheet: Place the banana slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Bake: Lightly brush the banana slices with coconut oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt or cinnamon (if desired), and bake for 2-3 hours, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden and crisp.
- Cool and store: Let the banana chips cool completely before enjoying. Store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
Fried Banana Chips:
- Heat the oil: In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Prepare the bananas: Slice the bananas as instructed above and toss with lemon juice.
- Fry the banana slices: Fry the banana slices in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Season and serve: Sprinkle with salt or cinnamon sugar while still warm. Let them cool before serving.
Banana Chips are a crunchy, naturally sweet snack that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving something crispy or looking for a wholesome alternative to store-bought chips!
