If you love making healthy treats at home then you should also check out this delicious vegan banana bread recipe, these vegan chickpea brownies, or if you love making recipes with fruit then make sure to check out my delicious homemade dragonfruit jelly!
Are you craving homemade banana chips but don't have a dehydrator? Look no further! This easy 3-ingredient banana chips recipe is just what you need. It's a healthy snack idea made with just bananas, lemon juice and salt! With this banana chips recipe you can create crispy and flavorful banana chips right in your own kitchen. No fancy equipment required!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This banana chips recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick and nutritious snack option without the added sugar and preservatives. Bananas are a great source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium and vitamin C. Plus, they're naturally sweet, making them a tasty alternative to processed snacks.
Whether you're a busy parent looking for a wholesome treat for your little ones, or a health-conscious individual in need of a guilt-free snack, this recipe is for you. Enjoy the delightful crunch of homemade banana chips without the hassle of dehydrating. It's so simple, you'll wonder why you haven't tried it before!
So, if you're ready to satisfy your snack cravings with a recipe that's easy, tasty, and nutritious, give this 3-ingredient banana chip recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Benefits of making your own banana chips
Making your own banana chips at home has several advantages over buying them from the store. Not only do homemade banana chips taste fresher and more flavorful, but they also allow you to control the ingredients used, ensuring a healthier snack option. Store-bought banana chips often contain added sugars, oils, and preservatives, which can negate the natural benefits of the fruit. By making your own, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that is both delicious and nutritious.
Health benefits of bananas
Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a moment to appreciate the health benefits of bananas. These yellow fruits are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that promote overall well-being. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, a mineral that is essential for maintaining proper heart and muscle function. They are also rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports collagen production. Additionally, bananas contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
How to choose the right bananas for this banana chips recipe
Choosing the right bananas is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your banana chips. Look for bananas that are ripe but not overly soft. They should be yellow with a few brown spots, indicating that they are sweet and flavorful. Avoid using green or unripe bananas, as they will not provide the desired taste and texture. If you prefer slightly sweeter chips, opt for bananas with more brown spots.
To prepare the bananas for slicing, gently peel off the skin and discard it. Make sure to remove any stingy pieces of the bananas before slicing.
Step-by-step instructions for making the banana chips
Now that you have selected the perfect bananas, it's time to start making your own banana chips. The following step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process:
- Preheat your oven to 230ยฐF (110ยฐC) (depends on your oven, it's best to go lower heat over higher to prevent the chips from burning).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the banana slices from sticking.
- Slice the bananas into thin, even rounds using a sharp knife. Aim for slices that are approximately โ inch (3mm) thick to ensure even drying.
- Place the banana slices in a bowl and drizzle them with freshly squeezed lemon juice and sprinkle some salt. The lemon juice not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps prevent the bananas from browning too quickly.
- Gently toss the banana slices in the lemon juice and salt to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Arrange the banana slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other. This will allow for proper air circulation and even drying.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the banana slices for 1 ยฝ hours. Keep an eye on them during the last hour of baking to prevent any burning.
- Remove them from the oven and flip each piece of banana over and then bake for another 30 minutes to 1 ยฝ hours, checking on them regularly.
- Once the banana chips are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Once cooled, transfer the banana chips to an airtight container or a resealable bag for storage. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor
To achieve the perfect texture and flavor in your homemade banana chips, consider the following tips:
- Slice the bananas thinly and evenly to ensure even drying.
- Coat the banana slices evenly with a light layer of lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on the baking sheet to allow for proper air circulation.
- Keep an eye on the chips during the last hour of baking to prevent any burning.
- Let the chips cool completely before storing to allow them to crisp up.
- If the chips are too chewy / not crunchy enough for your liking then pop them back in the oven for another 15 to 30 minutes. I enjoy the chips to be slightly chewy! But you might prefer a more crunchy chip.
By following these tips, you'll be able to enjoy crispy and flavorful banana chips that rival those found in stores.
Storing and preserving the banana chips
To ensure the longevity of your homemade banana chips, proper storage is essential. Once the chips have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable bag. It's important to remove as much air as possible to prevent moisture from seeping in and causing the chips to become soft. Store the banana chips at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life. However, be aware that refrigeration may cause the chips to lose some of their crispness.
3 Ingredient Banana Chips Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 bananas
- 1 lemon, juice of
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 230ยฐF (110ยฐC) (depends on your oven, it's best to go lower heat over higher to prevent the chips from burning).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the banana slices from sticking.
- Slice the bananas into thin, even rounds using a sharp knife. Aim for slices that are approximately โ inch (3mm) thick to ensure even drying.
- Place the banana slices in a bowl (or just use the chopping board) and drizzle them with freshly squeezed lemon juice and sprinkle some salt. The lemon juice not only adds a tangy flavor but also helps prevent the bananas from browning too quickly.
- Gently toss the banana slices in the lemon juice and salt to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Arrange the banana slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching each other. This will allow for proper air circulation and even drying.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the banana slices for 1 ยฝ hours. Keep an eye on them during the last hour of baking to prevent any burning.
- Remove them from the oven and flip each piece of banana over and then bake for another 30 minutes to 1 ยฝ hours, checking on them regularly.
- Once the banana chips are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will continue to crisp up as they cool.
- Once cooled, transfer the banana chips to an airtight container or a resealable bag for storage. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Leave a Reply