Banana Chips

INGREDIENTS

• 2 large raw bananas (unripe plantains)
• 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp red chili powder
• 1 tsp black pepper powder
• Salt to taste
• Oil for deep frying
• 1/2 tsp asafoetida (hing)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds (optional)
• 1 tsp ginger powder (optional)
• 1 tbsp coconut oil (for flavor, optional)
• 1/2 tsp garam masala (optional)
• Fresh curry leaves (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for tanginess)
• 1/2 tsp chaat masala (optional, for extra flavor)

Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

- Peel the raw bananas carefully. It’s best to use a knife or vegetable peeler, as raw bananas can be a bit sticky.

- Slice the bananas thinly, either with a mandoline slicer or knife. The thinner the slices, the crispier the chips.

- Immediately drop the slices in a bowl of water to prevent them from turning brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Seasoning

- In a small bowl, mix together turmeric powder, red chili powder, black pepper powder, salt, and asafoetida (hing).

- If you prefer extra flavor, add cumin seeds, ginger powder, or garam masala.

- You can also mix in a little coconut oil to enhance the flavor and give the chips a richer texture.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or kadai on medium-high heat.

- To test if the oil is hot enough, drop one slice into the oil. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Step 4: Fry the Banana Chips

- Drain the banana slices from the water and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

- Carefully drop the banana slices into the hot oil in small batches. Do not overcrowd the pan.

- Fry the slices for about 3–4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

- Stir occasionally to ensure even frying and prevent the chips from sticking to each other.

Step 5: Season the Chips

- Once fried, remove the chips from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

- Immediately sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the hot chips. Toss well to coat evenly.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

- Optionally, garnish the chips with fresh curry leaves or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.

- Serve the crispy banana chips as a snack or with a dip, and enjoy!

Bonus Tips:

- You can store banana chips in an airtight container for up to a week. They stay crispy for a long time if stored properly.

- If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the chips instead of deep-frying them.

- Experiment with different seasonings like chaat masala or pepper for variations in flavor.