BANANA CHIPS/ ETHAKKA UPPERI

Banana chips or ethakka upperi - the most popular snack in Kerala that also has its own place in all Kerala Sadya. These chips are made with raw plaintains. These crunchy and crispy chips with the flavor of coconut oil is very quick and easy to make.

INGREDIENTS:

Raw plantain - 4

Turmeric powder - 1/2 tsp

Salt - 1 tsp

Water - 1/2 cup

Coconut oil for frying

METHOD:

1. Peel the outer skin of the bananas and immerse them in the turmeric water for 5 mins.

2. Drain the banana and rub it with a tissue paper/towel.

3. Slice it into thin round pieces. You can use a slicer or a knife. The pieces should be thin.

4. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan on medium heat.

5. Meanwhile mix the salt, turmeric powder and water in a bowl and keep it aside.

6. Slide the sliced bananas into hot oil without overcrowding them. Make sure that the slices are separated while adding to the oil, otherwise it will be clumped together and undercooked.

7. Stir it after few mins.

8. Once the chips are almost crisp, add 1 to 1.5 tsp of salt mixture to the chips. Be careful while adding this, since oil bubbles up a lot. 

9. When the bubbling diminishes completely, gently toss them on every side. 

10. Drain the chips on paper towel.

11. Follow the same procedure with the remaining batches. 

12. Once the chips cool completely, store it in an airtight container.