A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Beet Chips Recipe, Perfect for Air Frying
Beet chips are an incredibly delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional potato crisps. When prepared in an air fryer, they become irresistibly crunchy, perfectly seasoned, and retain more of their nutritional value compared to the deep-fried version. Let's take a deep dive into making these delectable chips right at home.
About Beets and Their Benefits
Beetroot, commonly known as beets in the UK, is a vibrant root vegetable known for its deep red hue. It's a powerhouse of essential nutrients, including fiber, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, iron, and vitamin C. Regular consumption of beets is linked to several health benefits such as improved blood flow, lower blood pressure, and enhanced exercise performance.
Ingredients
- 3-4 medium-sized beets
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- Optional: black pepper, garlic powder, or rosemary for seasoning
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Beets
Begin by thoroughly washing the beets under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Using a vegetable peeler, peel the skin off the beets. Ensure your cutting board is non-slip for safety.
Step 2: Slicing
Using a mandoline slicer, slice the beets into 1/8-inch thick disks. Consistent thickness is key to ensure even cooking. If a mandoline is unavailable, carefully use a sharp knife to slice as uniformly as possible.
Step 3: Seasoning
Place the beet slices in a mixing bowl. Add olive oil, sea salt, and any optional seasonings you prefer. Toss the slices until they're well-coated. Olive oil helps in crisping the slices while the salt enhances flavour.
Step 4: Air Frying
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Arrange the seasoned beet slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure air circulation.
- Cook them for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they're crispy and start to brown on the edges.
Tip: Cooking times can vary based on your air fryer model and beet thickness, so keep an eye on the first batch to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions
These beet chips are perfect as a standalone snack or paired with your favourite dip, like hummus or a Greek yogurt dip flavoured with dill and lemon. They also make an attractive addition to a charcuterie board.
Storing the Beet Chips
If you have leftovers (though they're quite moreish!), store the beet chips in an airtight container. They can stay crispy for up to a week but for best results, consume them within a few days.
Final Thoughts
Air-fried beet chips are a healthy alternative and incredibly easy to make at home. With their sweet, earthy flavour and crisp texture, they're sure to become a favourite. Plus, they offer a fun way to showcase seasonal produce!