7 Steps to Make Restaurant-Quality Baked Plantain Chips at Home

Craving a healthy and delicious snack that’s both sweet and savory? Look no further than homemade baked plantain chips! These crispy delights are a fantastic alternative to traditional potato chips and offer a unique tropical twist. Plantains, a close relative of the banana, are starchy and less sweet, making them perfect for baking into crunchy chips. Hailing from tropical regions, plantain chips are a popular snack enjoyed worldwide. In this recipe, I’ll show you how to make perfectly crispy baked plantain chips with just a few simple ingredients and easy steps.

Quick Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 4
Calories: 150 (per serving)

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 green plantains
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Equipment Needed

• Large bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Mandoline or sharp knife

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Peel the Plantains: Cut off both ends of the plantains. Make a shallow slit lengthwise along the peel, being careful not to cut into the flesh. Use your fingers or a knife to peel away the skin.
3. Slice the Plantains: Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, slice the plantains into thin, even rounds, about 1/16 inch thick. Aim for consistent thickness to ensure even baking.
4. Prepare the Seasoning: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, salt, garlic powder (if using), and chili powder (if using).
5. Coat the Plantains: Add the plantain slices to the bowl and toss gently to coat them evenly with the oil and seasoning mixture. Make sure each slice is lightly coated.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the plantain slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping, as this will prevent them from crisping properly.
7. Bake Until Crispy: Bake for 10 minutes, then flip the chips over and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the slices.
8. Cool and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the plantain chips cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp up further as they cool.

Pro Tips for Success

• Use Green Plantains: Green plantains are less sweet and have a higher starch content, which makes them ideal for making crispy chips. Ripe plantains will be too soft and sweet.
• Slice Evenly: Consistent thickness is key for even baking. A mandoline is highly recommended for achieving uniform slices.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overlapping plantain slices will steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy chips. Bake in batches if necessary.
• Storage: Store cooled plantain chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

How to Serve and Present

Serve your baked plantain chips as a healthy snack on their own, or pair them with your favorite dips, such as guacamole, salsa, or black bean dip. They also make a great addition to a charcuterie board or as a side dish for grilled meats and seafood. For an extra touch, sprinkle with a bit of sea salt or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Variations to Try

• Sweet Plantain Chips: Use slightly ripe plantains and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar before baking for a sweet treat.
• Spicy Plantain Chips: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the oil mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Plantain Chips: Mix in dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an aromatic flavor.

FAQ Section

• Q: Can I use ripe plantains for this recipe?
  A: While you can use ripe plantains, the chips will be sweeter and may not get as crispy. Green plantains are recommended for the best results.
• Q: How do I store baked plantain chips?
  A: Store cooled plantain chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Q: My plantain chips are not crispy. What did I do wrong?
  A: Make sure you are using green plantains, slicing them thinly and evenly, and not overcrowding the baking sheet. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate.
• Q: Can I fry these instead of baking?
  A: Yes, you can fry the plantain chips in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. However, baking is a healthier option.

Conclusion

Making your own baked plantain chips is a simple and rewarding way to enjoy a healthy and delicious snack. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create crispy, flavorful chips that are perfect for any occasion. So, grab some green plantains and give this recipe a try! Share your results in the comments! You might also enjoy our recipes for baked sweet potato fries or homemade kale chips.