Baked Plantain Chips recipe

In our home, snack time used to be a bit of a battle. The kids craved chips, and I always felt a pang of guilt reaching for the processed bags loaded with who-knows-what. That was until we discovered baked plantain chips. Honestly, it was a game-changer. One afternoon, experimenting in the kitchen, I sliced up some slightly ripe plantains, tossed them with a little olive oil and salt, and popped them in the oven. The aroma that filled the house was incredible – sweet and subtly savory. When they emerged, golden and crispy, everyone pounced! Even my pickiest eater devoured them. What started as a simple experiment quickly became a family favorite. Now, baked plantain chips are our go-to snack. They’re satisfyingly crunchy, naturally sweet (without added sugar!), and I feel good knowing exactly what’s in them. If you’re looking for a healthier, delicious, and surprisingly easy alternative to traditional chips, you absolutely have to try this recipe. Trust me, your family will thank you!

Ingredients

Creating perfectly crisp and flavorful baked plantain chips relies on just a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in the final taste and texture of your snack. Let’s delve into each ingredient and understand why they are essential and how to choose the best ones.

• Plantains: The star of the show! Plantains are starchy fruits that look similar to bananas but are less sweet and need to be cooked before eating. For baked plantain chips, the ripeness of your plantains is key. You’ll want to use slightly ripe plantains. What does “slightly ripe” mean? Look for plantains that are mostly yellow with some black spots starting to appear. If they are completely green, they will be too starchy and won’t have that subtle sweetness we’re aiming for. If they are overly ripe (mostly black), they will be too soft and sweet and might caramelize too quickly in the oven, potentially burning before they crisp up. Slightly ripe plantains strike the perfect balance – they are firm enough to slice thinly and evenly, yet have developed enough natural sugars to caramelize beautifully in the oven, yielding a delightful sweetness that complements the savory saltiness. You’ll need about 2-3 medium-sized plantains for this recipe, which will yield a generous batch of chips. When selecting plantains at the grocery store, choose ones that are firm to the touch and free from bruises or blemishes. Organic plantains are always a great option if available, ensuring you’re using the best quality fruit as the base for your healthy snack.
• Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil): Oil is essential for achieving that desirable crispiness in baked plantain chips. It helps to conduct heat evenly and prevents the plantain slices from drying out and becoming brittle. Olive oil is a fantastic choice due to its healthy monounsaturated fats and mild flavor. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its richer flavor and higher antioxidant content, but regular olive oil will also work well. Another excellent option is avocado oil. Avocado oil has a higher smoke point than olive oil, which means it can withstand higher oven temperatures without breaking down or smoking, making it ideal for baking at slightly higher temperatures if you prefer a faster cooking time. Avocado oil also has a very neutral flavor, allowing the natural taste of the plantains to shine through. You’ll need about 2-3 tablespoons of oil for this recipe. The amount might slightly vary depending on the size of your plantains and how thinly you slice them. The goal is to lightly coat each slice, ensuring they bake evenly and develop that satisfying crunch.
• Salt: Salt is the simple yet crucial seasoning that enhances the natural sweetness of the plantains and balances the overall flavor profile of the chips. Sea salt or kosher salt are excellent choices for their pure flavor and coarser texture, which helps them adhere nicely to the plantain slices. Table salt can also be used, but you might want to use a bit less as it tends to be more intensely salty. Start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and adjust to your taste. You can always add more salt after baking if needed. Don’t underestimate the power of salt – it truly elevates the taste of these chips from good to irresistible!

Optional Flavor Enhancements:

While the basic recipe of plantains, oil, and salt is delicious on its own, you can easily customize your baked plantain chips with additional spices and seasonings to create different flavor profiles. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

• Cinnamon: For a touch of warm sweetness, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the plantain slices along with the salt before baking. Cinnamon pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of plantains and adds a comforting, aromatic dimension to the chips. This variation is particularly delightful for a slightly sweeter snack or even as a dessert-inspired treat.
• Chili Powder: If you crave a little heat, add a pinch of chili powder for a subtle kick. Chili powder provides a warm, slightly smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the plantains and the saltiness. Start with a small amount and add more to taste if you prefer a spicier chip.
• Garlic Powder: For a savory and slightly pungent flavor, garlic powder is an excellent addition. Garlic powder adds depth and complexity to the chips, making them even more addictive. It’s a great option if you prefer a more savory snack over a sweet one.
• Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder adds a savory and slightly sweet oniony flavor that enhances the overall taste of the chips. It’s another fantastic option for those who enjoy savory snacks.
• Paprika (Smoked or Sweet): Paprika, especially smoked paprika, can add a wonderful smoky and slightly sweet flavor to the chips. Sweet paprika offers a milder, sweeter flavor and vibrant color. Both varieties add depth and complexity and are a great way to experiment with different flavor profiles.
• Black Pepper: A simple sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice that complements both sweet and savory flavors. It’s a classic seasoning that enhances the overall taste of the chips.
• Cayenne Pepper: For a significant kick of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick. Cayenne pepper adds a fiery heat that is perfect for those who love spicy snacks. Use it sparingly at first and add more to taste.

Remember to add any additional spices or seasonings sparingly at first, as you can always add more after baking or in your next batch. Experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite flavor variations of baked plantain chips! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility – allowing you to create a snack that perfectly suits your taste preferences.

Instructions

Making baked plantain chips is surprisingly simple and straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly crispy and delicious chips every time. Let’s break down each step in detail to ensure success, even for beginner cooks.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking plantain chips. It’s high enough to crisp them up nicely but not so high that they burn before they are cooked through. Make sure your oven is properly preheated before you put the plantain slices in, as this helps ensure even cooking and crisping. Using an oven thermometer is a great way to ensure your oven is accurately reaching the desired temperature.
• Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper is your best friend when baking plantain chips. It prevents the chips from sticking to the baking sheet, making them easy to remove and clean up afterwards. It also helps to promote even browning. If you don’t have parchment paper, you can lightly grease the baking sheets with oil, but parchment paper is highly recommended for the best results. Using two baking sheets will allow you to spread the plantain slices in a single layer, which is crucial for even baking and crisping. Overcrowding the baking sheet will cause the plantain slices to steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy chips.

Step 2: Prepare the Plantains

• Peel the plantains. Plantain peels can be a bit tougher to remove than banana peels. The easiest way to peel a plantain is to first cut off both ends. Then, make a shallow slit lengthwise down the skin of the plantain. Use your fingers or the tip of a knife to carefully peel back the skin. It might take a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes quite easy. Make sure to remove all the peel.
• Slice the plantains thinly. This is perhaps the most important step for achieving crispy plantain chips. Thinly sliced plantains will cook through and crisp up beautifully in the oven. Thick slices are more likely to remain soft in the center. Aim for slices that are about ⅛ inch thick or even slightly thinner if you can manage it. A mandoline slicer is an excellent tool for achieving uniform, thin slices quickly and easily. If you don’t have a mandoline, a sharp knife will work just fine. Slice the plantains crosswise or diagonally, depending on your preference. Diagonal slices can be slightly larger and visually appealing. Try to keep the slices as uniform in thickness as possible for even cooking.

Step 3: Season and Toss the Plantain Slices

• Place the plantain slices in a large bowl. Using a large bowl gives you ample space to toss the slices without overcrowding and ensures even coating with oil and seasonings.
• Drizzle with olive oil (or avocado oil). Pour the olive oil (or avocado oil) over the plantain slices. Start with about 2 tablespoons and add more if needed to lightly coat all the slices. You don’t want the slices to be swimming in oil, just lightly coated.
• Sprinkle with salt (and any optional seasonings). Sprinkle the salt (and any optional seasonings like cinnamon, chili powder, garlic powder, etc.) evenly over the plantain slices. Start with ½ teaspoon of salt and adjust to your taste. If you are using additional spices, use them sparingly at first and add more to taste in your next batch.
• Toss to coat evenly. Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss the plantain slices until they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Make sure every slice is lightly coated to ensure even baking and flavor.

Step 4: Arrange Plantain Slices on Baking Sheets

• Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. This is crucial for crispiness. Make sure the slices are not overlapping, as overlapping will prevent them from crisping up properly. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure you have enough space to arrange all the slices in a single layer. Spacing them out slightly allows for better air circulation and even baking.

Step 5: Bake the Plantain Chips

• Bake for 15-20 minutes. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the plantain chips are golden brown and crispy. The baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your plantain slices. Keep an eye on them, especially towards the end of the baking time, to prevent them from burning.
• Flip the chips halfway through baking (optional but recommended). Flipping the chips halfway through baking helps to ensure even browning and crisping on both sides. Using a spatula, carefully flip each plantain slice. This step is optional, but it can contribute to a more uniformly crispy chip.
• Watch carefully towards the end to prevent burning. Plantain chips can go from golden brown to burnt quite quickly, so it’s important to watch them carefully during the last few minutes of baking. If you notice any chips browning too quickly, you can remove them from the oven while the rest continue to bake.

Step 6: Cool and Crisp Up

• Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets. Once the plantain chips are golden brown and crispy, remove the baking sheets from the oven. Let the chips cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Resist the urge to move them immediately, as they are more delicate when hot.
• Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (optional but recommended). For maximum crispiness, transfer the baked plantain chips to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows air to circulate around the chips, preventing them from becoming soggy on the bottom. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can simply let them cool on the parchment paper-lined baking sheets.

Step 7: Enjoy!

• Once completely cooled, the baked plantain chips are ready to enjoy! They are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness. Store any leftover chips in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness for as long as possible. However, they are so delicious, leftovers are rarely a problem in our house!

Follow these detailed instructions, and you’ll be well on your way to making perfectly crispy and flavorful baked plantain chips that are sure to become a new favorite snack in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and adjust the baking time to suit your oven and preferences. Happy baking!

Nutrition Facts

Baked plantain chips are not only delicious and satisfying, but they also offer some nutritional benefits compared to traditional potato chips, especially when baked instead of fried. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional profile of these homemade chips.

(Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 ounce (28 grams) or about 10-12 chips (depending on size)
• Calories: 120-150 calories
• Total Fat: 6-8 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1 gram
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 4-5 grams (primarily from olive or avocado oil)
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 gram
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 50-100 mg (depending on salt added)
• Total Carbohydrate: 18-20 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugars: 4-6 grams (naturally occurring sugars from plantains)
• Protein: 1-2 grams
• Vitamin A: 2% DV (Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Potassium: 10% DV
• Magnesium: 5% DV

Important Notes on Nutrition:

• Serving Size Matters: The nutrition facts provided are based on an approximate 1-ounce serving. It’s easy to eat more than one serving of chips, so be mindful of your portion sizes to manage your calorie and nutrient intake.
• Baking vs. Frying: Baked plantain chips are significantly lower in fat and calories compared to fried plantain chips. Frying can dramatically increase the fat content and calorie count. Baking is a much healthier cooking method for this snack.
• Healthy Fats: The fat content in baked plantain chips comes primarily from the olive oil or avocado oil used. These oils are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats.
• Fiber Content: Plantains are a good source of dietary fiber. Fiber is important for digestive health, helps you feel full and satisfied, and can contribute to blood sugar control. Baked plantain chips provide a decent amount of fiber compared to many other snack options.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Plantains contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium. While the amounts in a serving of chips are not extremely high, they contribute to your overall nutrient intake.
• Natural Sugars: Plantains contain natural sugars, which contribute to the carbohydrate content. However, these are natural sugars from a whole food source, not added sugars. The sweetness of the chips is derived from the plantains themselves.
• Sodium Content: The sodium content in baked plantain chips can be controlled by adjusting the amount of salt you add. Using less salt will result in lower sodium chips. You can also use salt substitutes or experiment with other flavorings to reduce sodium intake while still enjoying flavorful chips.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan: Baked plantain chips are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them a suitable snack option for people with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Health Benefits of Plantains:

Beyond the nutrition facts of the chips themselves, plantains offer several potential health benefits:

• Good Source of Potassium: Plantains are rich in potassium, an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure, muscle function, and nerve signals.
• Rich in Vitamin C: Plantains are a good source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function, collagen production, and iron absorption.
• High in Fiber: The fiber content in plantains promotes digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and contributes to feelings of fullness and satiety.
• May Improve Gut Health: Plantains contain resistant starch, a type of carbohydrate that acts like fiber and may promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, contributing to improved gut health.
• Energy Source: Plantains are a good source of carbohydrates, providing sustained energy for your body.

While baked plantain chips are a healthier snack option compared to many processed chips, they should still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. They are a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy plantains and can be a satisfying alternative to less healthy snack choices. Remember to focus on whole foods and a variety of nutrients for overall health and well-being.

Preparation Time

The beauty of baked plantain chips lies not only in their delicious taste and health benefits but also in their quick and easy preparation. From start to finish, you can have a batch of crispy, homemade chips ready to enjoy in a relatively short amount of time. Let’s break down the preparation time into different stages to give you a clear picture of how long it takes to make this snack.

Total Preparation Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

This total time includes both the active time you spend preparing the chips and the baking time in the oven. Here’s a breakdown of the different stages:

• Prep Time (Active Time): 10-15 minutes
  • Peeling and Slicing Plantains: This is the most hands-on part of the preparation. Peeling and slicing 2-3 plantains will take about 5-7 minutes, depending on your speed and knife skills. Using a mandoline slicer can significantly speed up the slicing process.
  • Seasoning and Tossing: Drizzling with oil, adding salt and seasonings, and tossing to coat the plantain slices takes only about 2-3 minutes. It’s a quick and simple step.
  • Arranging on Baking Sheets: Arranging the plantain slices in a single layer on the baking sheets takes approximately 3-5 minutes. The time will depend on how many baking sheets you are using and how carefully you arrange the slices.
• Baking Time (Oven Time): 15-20 minutes
  • Baking in the Oven: The plantain chips need to bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. This is mostly passive time, where the oven does the work.
  • Flipping (Optional): If you choose to flip the chips halfway through baking, it will add a minute or two to the baking time, but it’s generally included within the 15-20 minute range.
• Cooling Time: 5-10 minutes (for optimal crispiness)
  • Cooling on Baking Sheets/Wire Rack: Allowing the baked plantain chips to cool on the baking sheets or a wire rack for 5-10 minutes is crucial for them to crisp up fully. While this is technically part of the overall process, it’s mostly passive cooling time.

Factors Affecting Preparation Time:

• Plantain Ripeness: Slightly ripe plantains are easier to peel and slice than very green or overly ripe plantains. Using plantains at the optimal ripeness will make the prep process smoother and faster.
• Slicing Method: Using a mandoline slicer will significantly reduce the slicing time compared to slicing by hand with a knife. If you are making plantain chips frequently, a mandoline slicer can be a worthwhile investment.
• Oven Preheat Time: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before you put the plantain slices in. Preheating time can vary depending on your oven model, but it typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Factor in the oven preheat time if you are calculating the total time from start to finish.
• Batch Size: Making a larger batch of plantain chips will take slightly longer to peel, slice, and arrange on baking sheets. However, the baking time will remain roughly the same, as long as you are using enough baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

Tips for Faster Preparation:

• Use a Mandoline Slicer: If you have a mandoline slicer, use it to slice the plantains. It will make the slicing process incredibly fast and ensure uniform thickness.
• Prepare in Batches: If you are making a large batch, you can peel and slice all the plantains ahead of time. However, it’s best to season and bake them in batches to ensure they are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheets.
• Efficient Workflow: Organize your ingredients and equipment before you start. Have your plantains, oil, salt, seasonings, bowl, baking sheets, and parchment paper ready to go. This streamlined workflow will make the preparation process more efficient.
• Enlist Help: If you have family members or friends around, ask for help with peeling or slicing the plantains. Making it a collaborative effort can make the process faster and more enjoyable.

Overall, baked plantain chips are a remarkably quick and easy snack to make. With just a few minutes of active preparation and a short baking time, you can enjoy a healthy, homemade treat that is far superior to store-bought chips in both taste and nutrition. The minimal time investment makes them perfect for satisfying those snack cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve Baked Plantain Chips

Baked plantain chips are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making them a fantastic snack for any occasion. Their slightly sweet and savory flavor profile pairs well with both sweet and savory accompaniments. Here are some delicious and creative ways to serve your homemade baked plantain chips:

As a Snack on Their Own:

• Simply Enjoy Them Plain: Sometimes, the simplest way is the best. Baked plantain chips are delicious on their own, offering a satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness. They are perfect for a quick and healthy snack anytime of day.
• Lightly Salted: The classic combination of plantains and salt is always a winner. A light sprinkle of sea salt enhances the natural flavors and makes them incredibly addictive.
• With a Sprinkle of Spices: For a flavor boost, sprinkle your baked plantain chips with your favorite spices after they come out of the oven. Consider options like:
  • Cinnamon sugar: For a sweet and warm snack.
  • Chili powder: For a spicy kick.
  • Garlic powder or onion powder: For a savory depth.
  • Paprika (smoked or sweet): For a smoky or sweet flavor.
  • Everything bagel seasoning: For a savory and flavorful coating.

With Dips and Salsas:

• Guacamole: The creamy richness of guacamole perfectly complements the crispy texture and subtle sweetness of plantain chips. This classic pairing is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Salsa: Fresh salsa, whether it’s tomato-based, mango salsa, or pineapple salsa, provides a vibrant and refreshing contrast to the baked plantain chips. The acidity and freshness of salsa cut through the richness of the chips beautifully.
• Hummus: Creamy hummus, in any flavor (classic, roasted red pepper, garlic), is a healthy and satisfying dip for plantain chips. The smooth texture and savory flavor of hummus pair wonderfully with the crispy chips.
• Yogurt Dips: Greek yogurt-based dips are a lighter and healthier option. Try:
  • Tzatziki: A refreshing cucumber and yogurt dip.
  • Spicy cilantro-lime yogurt dip: For a zesty and flavorful dip.
  • Roasted red pepper and feta yogurt dip: For a creamy and savory dip.
• Black Bean Dip: A hearty and flavorful black bean dip is a great accompaniment to plantain chips. The earthy flavors of black beans and spices complement the plantain chips beautifully.
• Cheese Dips: Warm cheese dips, like queso or spinach artichoke dip, can be a more indulgent treat to enjoy with plantain chips.

As a Side Dish or Accompaniment:

• Alongside Grilled Meats or Fish: Baked plantain chips can be a delicious and unique side dish to serve with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or shrimp. They provide a nice textural contrast and a slightly sweet element to balance savory main courses.
• With Salads: Crumble baked plantain chips over salads for added crunch and flavor. They work especially well with tropical-inspired salads or salads with grilled chicken or shrimp.
• In Bowls: Add baked plantain chips to grain bowls or Buddha bowls for extra texture and a touch of sweetness. They are a great addition to bowls with rice, quinoa, beans, and roasted vegetables.
• With Soups: Serve a small bowl of baked plantain chips alongside soups, especially creamy soups or Latin-inspired soups. They can be used for dipping or simply as a crunchy side.

Creative Serving Ideas:

• Plantain Chip Nachos: Get creative and use baked plantain chips as the base for nachos! Top them with your favorite nacho toppings like cheese, beans, salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and jalapenos. Bake briefly to melt the cheese and create a unique and flavorful appetizer.
• Dessert Plantain Chips: For a sweet treat, sprinkle baked plantain chips with cinnamon sugar while they are still warm. Serve them with chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or a scoop of ice cream for a fun and unexpected dessert.
• Charcuterie Board Addition: Include baked plantain chips on your next charcuterie board for a unique and gluten-free cracker alternative. They pair well with cheeses, cured meats, olives, and dips.

No matter how you choose to serve them, baked plantain chips are sure to be a hit. Their versatility and delicious flavor make them a perfect snack for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant appetizers. Experiment with different pairings and dips to discover your favorite ways to enjoy these crispy and healthy homemade chips!

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Plantain Chips

While the recipe for baked plantain chips is quite straightforward, a few extra tips and tricks can help you achieve consistently perfect, crispy, and flavorful results every time. Here are five essential tips to elevate your baked plantain chip game:

1. Ripeness is Key: Choose Slightly Ripe Plantains

• The Sweet Spot: As mentioned earlier, the ripeness of your plantains is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor. Aim for slightly ripe plantains – those that are mostly yellow with some black spots just starting to appear. These plantains offer the perfect balance of firmness for slicing and natural sweetness for caramelization.
• Avoid Green Plantains: Green plantains are too starchy and lack the subtle sweetness needed for delicious chips. They will also be harder to slice and may not crisp up as well.
• Avoid Overly Ripe Plantains: Overly ripe plantains (mostly black) are too soft and sweet. They can caramelize too quickly in the oven and potentially burn before they become crispy. They are also more difficult to slice thinly and evenly.
• Test for Ripeness: Gently press the plantain. Slightly ripe plantains will be firm to the touch but yield slightly. They should not be rock hard (too green) or mushy (too ripe).

2. Slice Thin and Uniformly for Maximum Crispiness

• Thin Slices are Essential: Thinly sliced plantains are the secret to achieving crispy baked plantain chips. Thick slices are more likely to remain soft in the center, even after baking. Aim for slices that are about ⅛ inch thick or even slightly thinner if possible.
• Uniform Thickness for Even Cooking: Strive for uniform slices to ensure that all the chips cook at the same rate and become crispy at the same time. Inconsistent thickness can lead to some chips being burnt while others are still soft.
• Mandoline Slicer Recommendation: A mandoline slicer is your best friend for achieving uniformly thin slices quickly and easily. If you make plantain chips often, investing in a mandoline slicer is highly recommended.
• Sharp Knife Technique: If you don’t have a mandoline, use a very sharp knife. Slice slowly and carefully, aiming for consistent thickness with each slice. Take your time and focus on precision.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheets: Bake in Batches if Necessary

• Single Layer is Crucial: Arrange the plantain slices in a single layer on the baking sheets. Overcrowding the baking sheets will cause the plantain slices to steam instead of bake, resulting in soggy chips instead of crispy ones.
• Use Multiple Baking Sheets: If you are making a larger batch of plantain chips, use two or even three baking sheets to ensure you can arrange all the slices in a single layer without overcrowding.
• Bake in Batches if Needed: If you only have one baking sheet, bake the plantain chips in batches. It’s better to bake in batches and achieve crispy chips than to overcrowd and end up with soggy ones.

4. Monitor Baking Time Closely: Avoid Burning

• Watch Carefully Towards the End: Plantain chips can go from golden brown and crispy to burnt relatively quickly. Pay close attention to them, especially during the last few minutes of baking.
• Baking Time is a Guide: The baking time of 15-20 minutes is a guide, but it can vary depending on your oven, the thickness of your slices, and the ripeness of your plantains. Start checking for doneness around 15 minutes and adjust the baking time as needed.
• Golden Brown Color and Crispy Texture: The chips are done when they are golden brown around the edges and feel crispy to the touch. They will continue to crisp up further as they cool.
• Remove Chips as They Brown: If some chips are browning faster than others, remove the browned chips from the baking sheet while the rest continue to bake. This prevents burning and ensures all chips are cooked to perfection.

5. Cool Completely for Ultimate Crispiness

• Crisp Up as They Cool: Baked plantain chips will continue to crisp up as they cool down. Don’t be discouraged if they seem slightly soft when they first come out of the oven.
• Let Cool on Baking Sheets Initially: Allow the chips to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows them to firm up slightly before handling.
• Wire Rack for Maximum Crispiness (Optional but Recommended): For the crispiest results, transfer the chips to a wire rack to cool completely. The wire rack allows air to circulate around the chips, preventing moisture from accumulating underneath and ensuring maximum crispiness on all sides.
• Patience is Key: Resist the urge to eat the chips while they are still warm. Allow them to cool completely for the best texture and crispiness. The wait is worth it!

By following these additional tips, you’ll be well-equipped to make consistently perfect baked plantain chips that are crispy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Experiment, practice, and enjoy the process of creating this healthy and delicious homemade snack!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Baked Plantain Chips

Do you have questions about making baked plantain chips? You’re not alone! Here are five frequently asked questions, along with detailed answers to help you master this delicious and healthy snack.

Q1: Can I use green plantains instead of slightly ripe ones?

A: While technically you can use green plantains, it’s not recommended for baked plantain chips if you’re aiming for a snack similar to traditional chips. Green plantains are very starchy and have a less pleasant flavor when baked. They will be much harder to slice, less sweet, and may not crisp up as well, resulting in tougher, less flavorful chips. Slightly ripe plantains (yellow with some black spots) are the sweet spot. They offer the perfect balance of firmness for slicing, natural sweetness for flavor, and starch content for achieving that desirable crispiness. If you use green plantains, you might need to bake them longer, but they still may not achieve the same satisfying crispiness and flavor profile as chips made with slightly ripe plantains. For the best results, stick to slightly ripe plantains.

Q2: How do I store baked plantain chips to keep them crispy?

A: Proper storage is key to maintaining the crispiness of your baked plantain chips. The best way to store them is in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure the chips are completely cooled before storing them. Warm chips will release moisture and become soggy in a closed container. Lining the container with a paper towel can help absorb any excess moisture and further prolong crispness. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as the cold and humidity can make them lose their crisp texture and become soft. When stored correctly in an airtight container at room temperature, baked plantain chips should remain crispy for 2-3 days. However, they are usually so delicious they don’t last that long! For maximum freshness and crispiness, it’s always best to enjoy them within the first day or two.

Q3: My baked plantain chips are not crispy, what did I do wrong?

A: There are several reasons why your baked plantain chips might not be as crispy as you hoped. Here are the most common culprits and how to fix them:

• Thick Slices: The most common reason for soggy chips is slicing the plantains too thickly. Remember, thin slices are essential for crispiness. Aim for slices that are ⅛ inch thick or less. Use a mandoline slicer if possible for uniform thinness.
• Overcrowded Baking Sheet: Overcrowding the baking sheet prevents proper air circulation, causing the plantain slices to steam instead of bake and crisp. Make sure to arrange the slices in a single layer with space between them. Use multiple baking sheets if necessary or bake in batches.
• Oven Temperature Too Low: While 350°F (175°C) is generally recommended, oven temperatures can vary. If your oven tends to run cooler, you might need to increase the temperature slightly or bake for a longer time. An oven thermometer can help ensure your oven is accurately reaching the desired temperature.
• Not Baked Long Enough: Plantain chips need to be baked long enough to fully dehydrate and crisp up. Bake for the full 15-20 minutes or even slightly longer until they are golden brown and crispy. Watch them carefully towards the end to prevent burning.
• Not Cooled Properly: Plantain chips continue to crisp up as they cool. Make sure to let them cool completely on the baking sheets or a wire rack before eating or storing. Don’t judge their crispiness while they are still warm.

Review these points and try adjusting your technique in your next batch. Slicing thinly, avoiding overcrowding, and ensuring proper baking and cooling are the keys to achieving crispy baked plantain chips.

Q4: Can I fry plantain chips instead of baking them?

A: Yes, you can definitely fry plantain chips! Fried plantain chips are known as “mariquitas” in some cultures and are a very popular snack. Frying will result in a different texture and flavor compared to baking – typically richer, more oily, and often crispier. However, frying is significantly less healthy than baking due to the higher fat content and calorie count. If you choose to fry, use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C). Fry the plantain slices in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. While fried plantain chips are undeniably delicious, baking is a much healthier option for a regular snack. Baked plantain chips offer a good balance of flavor, crispiness, and health benefits.

Q5: Can I add different seasonings to my baked plantain chips?

A: Absolutely! One of the great things about baked plantain chips is their versatility and how well they take to different seasonings. Feel free to get creative and experiment with various spices and herbs to create your own signature flavor combinations. Some popular seasoning ideas include:

• Sweet: Cinnamon sugar, nutmeg, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract (a tiny touch added to the oil).
• Savory: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (smoked or sweet), chili powder, cumin, oregano, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, cayenne pepper (for heat), everything bagel seasoning, nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor).
• Herby: Dried parsley, dried cilantro, dried dill, Italian seasoning.
• Spicy: Chili flakes, chipotle powder, jerk seasoning, curry powder.

You can add seasonings before baking by sprinkling them along with the salt and tossing to coat the plantain slices. Or you can add seasonings after baking while the chips are still warm, which can help them adhere better. Start with small amounts of seasoning and taste as you go, adjusting to your preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite flavor combinations! Baked plantain chips are a blank canvas for flavor, so have fun and get creative!

Print