Puff Puff: Easy African Donuts in 30 Minutes
18. December 2025
Bobotie: South Africa’s Golden Comfort Food
20. December 2025Very Easy
5 minutes
15 minutes
2-3 servings
Description
Instructions
⚠️ You can choose your method. Frying gives maximum crispiness. Baking is a lighter option.
- Prepare the Plantains - First, peel the plantains. Cut off both ends. Make a shallow cut along the length. Peel the skin off. Now, slice the plantain. Use a mandoline for the best results. A sharp knife also works. Slice into very thin rounds. Aim for 1-2mm thickness. This is key for crisp chips.
- Step 2A: Frying Method (Super Crispy)
Heat oil in a deep pan. You need about 1 inch of oil. Heat it to 350°F (175°C). Test with one slice. It should sizzle immediately. Fry the slices in small batches. Do not overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side. They will turn golden brown. Remove them when they look crisp.
Step 2B: Baking Method (Lighter)
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss your plantain slices lightly with oil. You can use cooking spray. Spread them in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through. Bake until golden and crisp.
- Step 3: Season and Serve
This step is important. Drain fried chips on paper towels. Season them immediately while they are hot. Sprinkle with sea salt. Add your favorite spices now. The heat helps the seasoning stick. For baked chips, season right after taking them out of the oven. Let them cool for a minute. Then enjoy your crispy Plantain Chips!
FAQ Section
What type of plantain is best for chips?
Use ripe plantains. The skin should be yellow with black spots. This gives a slight sweetness. It also fries to a perfect golden color. Green plantains are too starchy and not sweet.
Why are my chips not crispy?
The slices were probably too thick. Slice them as thin as possible. Also, make sure your oil is hot enough. If baking, space them out well on the tray. Overcrowding steams them.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, absolutely. Toss thin slices with a little oil. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes. Shake the basket halfway through. Season immediately after cooking.
How do I store leftover Plantain Chips?
Let them cool completely first. Store in a paper bag or an airtight container. A container with a loose lid is best. This helps them stay crisp. They are best eaten within 1-2 days.
What are good seasoning ideas?
Keep it simple with just sea salt. For a kick, use chili powder or cayenne. Smoked paprika adds a nice depth. A little garlic powder is also delicious.
💡💡💡Plantain chips are not just a snack! In many West African countries, they are called ‘Kpekple’ or ‘Chiplo’. They are so popular that there are special street vendors who sell nothing else. The degree of ripeness is also interesting: the more black spots, the sweeter the chip. For a savoury, starchy chip, on the other hand, green plantains are used. A simple food with great variety!
Ingredients
- 🍌 2 large ripe plantains (look for yellow skin with black spots)
- 🛢️ Oil for frying (or spray for baking)
- 🧂 Sea salt for seasoning
- 🌶️ Optional spices: Smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder
About us
Dive into the unique world of African flavors with Nana! From traditional family recipes to modern creations, Nana brings the diversity and magic of the African continent straight to your kitchen. Get inspired, try authentic and creative dishes, and discover the heartfelt soul of African cuisine on your plate.
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My cookbook "Nigeria African Food: New Beginnings" takes you on a culinary journey through 18 authentic Nigerian dishes – adapted for kitchens everywhere. No matter where you cook or what your background is: here you’ll find recipes that work and delight.
