Looking for a healthy and easy snack option? Look no further than homemade banana chips. With just 52 calories per 10 chip serving, these chips are a great alternative to traditional potato chips.
In addition to being low in calories, banana chips are also a good source of fiber and vitamins. Plus, making your own banana chips allows you to control the amount of oil and salt used, making them an even healthier option.
In this article, we'll explore how to make homemade banana chips, tips for ensuring they come out crispy, the health benefits of eating them, different ways to season them, and much more. Let's get started!
How to make homemade banana chips
To make homemade banana chips, start by slicing ripe bananas into thin, even slices. Next, heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat, and add the banana slices in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the pan and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool before serving.
Tips for making crispy banana chips
To ensure your banana chips come out crispy, it's important to use ripe, but firm bananas. Overripe bananas will become mushy and won't crisp up as well. In addition, be sure to slice the bananas as evenly as possible to ensure they cook evenly. Finally, don't overcrowd the pan when cooking your banana chips. This will cause them to steam and become soft instead of getting crispy and crunchy.
Health benefits of homemade banana chips
Bananas are a great source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and keep you feeling full and satisfied. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6. When you make your own banana chips, you can control the amount of oil and salt used, making them a healthier alternative to store-bought chips. Just be sure to enjoy them in moderation, as they are still a calorie-dense food.
Different ways to season banana chips
One of the great things about homemade banana chips is that you can season them any way you like! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Cinnamon and sugar
- Paprika and cumin
- Chili powder and lime juice
- Garlic and onion powder
- Rosemary and sea salt
Feel free to experiment with different spice blends to find your perfect flavor combination!
Using homemade banana chips in recipes
Banana chips are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, from sweet to savory. Try using them as a crunchy topping for oatmeal or yogurt bowls, or use them to add texture to salads or rice bowls. You can even use them as a healthier alternative to traditional croutons in soups and stews!
Storing homemade banana chips
To keep your banana chips fresh and crispy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep for several days, although they are best eaten within the first day or two. If you do notice they are starting to lose their crispiness, you can reheat them in the oven at 350 degrees for a few minutes to bring them back to life.
Variations of homemade banana chips
While plain banana chips are delicious on their own, there are a few variations you can try to mix things up:
- Try using plantain instead of banana for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Add a sprinkle of coconut sugar or honey before cooking for a touch of sweetness.
- Use a crinkle cutter to create fun, wavy chips that kids will love.
The possibilities are endless!
Difference between homemade and store-bought banana chips
While store-bought banana chips can be a convenient snack option, they are often loaded with added sugars and preservatives. Making your own banana chips at home allows you to control the ingredients and make a healthier version of this popular snack. In addition, homemade banana chips are often crispier and more flavorful than store-bought options, making them even more satisfying to eat.
Serving suggestions for homemade banana chips
Homemade banana chips are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of dips and toppings for an even more satisfying snack. Try serving them with:
- Peanut butter or almond butter
- Hummus
- Salsa
- Greek yogurt dip
- Guacamole
In addition to being low in calories, homemade banana chips are also a good source of fiber and vitamins. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information per 10 chip serving:
- Calories: 52
- Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.6g
Keep in mind that the nutritional content may vary depending on how you season and cook your banana chips.
Eating healthy doesn't have to be boring. Homemade banana chips are a delicious and easy way to satisfy your snack cravings while still sticking to your health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions about Homemade Banana Chips
1. How many calories are in a 10-chip serving of homemade banana chips?
A 10-chip serving of homemade banana chips contains 52 calories.
2. Are homemade banana chips healthy?
Homemade banana chips can be a healthy snack option as they are low in calories and fat, high in fiber and nutrients, and contain natural sugars.
3. How do you make homemade banana chips?
To make homemade banana chips, slice ripe bananas thinly and evenly, then bake in a preheated oven at 200°C for 2-3 hours, turning them occasionally, until they are crispy and golden brown.
4. How long do homemade banana chips last?
Banana chips can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
5. Can homemade banana chips be flavored?
Yes, homemade banana chips can be flavored with a variety of spices and seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, or honey to add more taste and depth to the snack.