Banana Chips Recipe

Banana Chips Recipe is one of the most loved traditional Indian snacks, especially popular in South India. Crispy, golden, and lightly salted, these chips are made from raw bananas and are perfect for tea-time munching, festive platters, or even as a travel snack. The best part? You can easily prepare them at home with just a few ingredients and enjoy a fresh, crunchy treat without preservatives.

Homemade banana chips are much healthier compared to store-bought ones because you can control the oil quality, salt level, and spices according to your taste. Whether you like them simple salted, spicy masala, or slightly sweet, this versatile snack never disappoints. Let’s learn how to make perfectly crispy banana chips step by step.

About Banana Chips

Banana chips are thin slices of raw green bananas that are deep-fried until crisp. In Kerala, they are famously known as “Upperi” and are traditionally fried in coconut oil, which gives them a unique aroma and authentic flavor. These chips are a common part of festive meals like Onam Sadya.

The key to making perfect banana chips is choosing the right type of banana (raw green banana, not ripe) and slicing them thinly and evenly. Proper frying temperature also plays an important role in achieving crispiness.

Ingredients Required

4 raw green bananas (kaccha kela)
Oil for deep frying (coconut oil or refined oil)
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons water
½ teaspoon turmeric powder (optional, for color)
½ teaspoon black pepper powder or red chili powder (optional)

How to Choose the Right Banana

Always use raw green bananas that are firm and unripe. They should have green skin and feel hard to touch. Avoid yellow or slightly ripe bananas because they contain more sugar and will not turn crispy when fried.

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Salt Water

In a small bowl, mix salt and water until dissolved. Keep it aside. This salt water will be added during frying to season the chips evenly.

Step 2: Peel the Bananas

Cut off both ends of the banana. Make a light slit on the skin using a knife and remove the peel carefully. Since raw bananas can be sticky, you can apply a little oil on your hands before peeling.

Step 3: Slice the Bananas

Using a slicer or mandoline, slice the bananas directly into hot oil. The slices should be thin and uniform. Thin slices ensure crispiness.

Frying Method

Heat oil in a deep kadai on medium flame.
Once the oil is hot (not smoking), reduce the flame to medium.
Slice the bananas directly into the hot oil.
Fry them for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
When bubbles reduce slightly, carefully sprinkle 1–2 teaspoons of prepared salt water into the oil. Be cautious as oil may splutter.
Continue frying until chips turn golden and crisp.
Remove using a slotted spoon and place on tissue paper.

Repeat the process in batches.

How to Make Spicy Banana Chips

If you prefer spicy chips:

After frying, sprinkle red chili powder and black pepper powder while the chips are still warm.
Toss gently so that the masala coats evenly.

You can also add chaat masala for a tangy twist.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Banana Chips

Always fry on medium flame. High flame will brown the chips quickly but keep them soft inside.
Do not overcrowd the kadai.
Slice directly into oil to prevent discoloration.
Make sure chips are completely cooled before storing.
Store in an airtight container to maintain crispiness.

Baking or Air Fryer Method

If you want a healthier version:

Air Fryer Method:

Slice bananas thinly.
Mix with 1–2 teaspoons oil and salt.
Arrange in a single layer.
Air fry at 180°C for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Oven Method:

Preheat oven to 180°C.
Place slices on baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Brush lightly with oil.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until crisp.

Note: Texture may be slightly different from deep-fried version but still tasty.

Storage Tips

Allow the chips to cool completely before storing. Keep them in a clean, dry, airtight container. They stay fresh for 2–3 weeks if stored properly in a cool place.

Avoid moisture exposure as it can make chips soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with evening tea.
Add to kids’ lunch boxes.
Include in festive snack platters.
Crush slightly and use as crunchy topping on chaat.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Banana chips are rich in carbohydrates and provide quick energy. When fried in coconut oil, they also contain healthy fats. However, since they are deep-fried, moderation is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my banana chips not crispy?

Possible reasons:

Banana was slightly ripe.
Oil temperature was too low.
Slices were too thick.

Can I use ripe bananas?

No, ripe bananas contain sugar and become soft when fried.

Why add salt water during frying?

It helps distribute salt evenly and gives authentic taste.

Conclusion

Banana Chips Recipe is a simple yet delicious snack that you can easily prepare at home. With just a few ingredients and proper frying technique, you can enjoy crispy, golden chips anytime. Whether you prefer traditional salted chips or spicy masala flavor, this homemade recipe will surely become a family favorite.

Try this recipe today and enjoy fresh, crunchy banana chips with your loved ones!