Plantain, Yam, Beet, and Other Vegetable Chips are a delightful alternative to traditional potato chips. These chips are not only easier to fry but also offer a range of flavors and textures when different vegetables are combined. While fried in the traditional lard, you can also use neutral oils like grapeseed or corn. The recipe allows for experimentation, encouraging the use of various root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, turnips, taro, or tropical tubers. Whether served hot with a sprinkling of salt or enjoyed later in the day, these chips are sure to be a crowd-pleasing snack. For an added kick, cayenne can be included, and lime wedges can be served alongside for an extra burst of flavor. Try these vegetable chips as a tasty and nutritious option for your next snack or appetizer.
Makes: 4 servings
Time: 15 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- Lard or neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn, for deep-frying
- 2 medium-ripe plantains (yellow-green, not green, yellow, or yellow-black), peeled
- Salt
- Cayenne, to taste (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Put at least 2 inches of oil in a deep pan on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring it to a temperature of 350°F for deep-frying. Note: The broader the vessel, the more chips you can cook at once, but it will require more oil.
- While the oil is heating, use a mandolin set to the thinnest setting or slice the plantains as thinly as possible by hand. Traditionally, they are cut lengthwise, but you can make round chips if it’s easier.
- In a small bowl, combine some salt with a bit of cayenne if you want a spicy mixture for sprinkling.
- Fry as many slices at once as will fit without crowding, turning if necessary. The total cooking time will be about 2 minutes; the chips should not brown but turn a deeper yellow color.
- Remove the chips with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels or paper bags.
- Sprinkle the chips with salt and lime juice if desired. Serve them as soon as possible for the best taste and texture, although they will remain crisp and delicious for several hours.
VARIATION:
BEET or YAM (Sweet Potato) CHIPS:
- Peel the beets or yams and slice them thinly.
- Cook the slices as directed in the main recipe.
Enjoy these flavorful and crispy vegetable chips as a delicious snack or a unique addition to your appetizer spread. Experiment with different vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, turnips, taro, or other tropical tubers to discover new and exciting flavors.
