If you love crispy chips but want to avoid the added calories and fats from oil, you’ll be happy to know it’s entirely possible to make them crunchy and delicious without using a single drop of oil. The secret lies in choosing the right method and ingredients that allow the natural flavors and textures to shine. Here’s how you can achieve perfect, oil-free crispy chips at home.
The Key Ingredients
Potatoes (or alternatives like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or beets)
Choose starchy potatoes like russets for extra crispiness.
Seasonings of your choice
Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or herbs like rosemary and thyme.
The Method
1. Slice Thinly and Evenly
Use a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife to cut your potatoes into thin, even slices. Uniform thickness ensures even cooking and crispiness.
Aim for slices about 1/8-inch thick or thinner.
2. Soak in Cold Water
Place the potato slices in a bowl of cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch, preventing them from becoming soggy.
Rinse well and pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
3. Use Parchment Paper or a Non-Stick Surface
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even crisping. You can also use a silicone baking mat.