Sweet potato chips are a delicious and healthier alternative to regular potato chips. They’re packed with nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a great snack option for health-conscious individuals. While you can bake or deep-fry sweet potato chips, using a dehydrator is a game-changer. It allows you to achieve that perfect crunch without adding extra oil or calories. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making sweet potato chips in a dehydrator, from preparation to seasoning.
Why Use a Dehydrator for Sweet Potato Chips?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s explore the benefits of using a dehydrator for making sweet potato chips.
- Low-Calorie Snacking: Dehydrating sweet potato chips eliminates the need for added oils, making them a low-calorie snack option.
- Preserves Nutrients: Dehydrating at a low temperature helps preserve the natural nutrients and antioxidants found in sweet potatoes.
- Customizable: With a dehydrator, you can control the temperature, time, and seasoning to create your perfect sweet potato chip.
Choosing the Right Sweet Potatoes
Not all sweet potatoes are created equal when it comes to making chips. Look for sweet potatoes that are high in starch, like the Beauregard or Covington varieties. These will yield a crisper chip.
What to Look for in Sweet Potatoes
When selecting sweet potatoes, choose ones that are:
- Firm and smooth
- Free of bruises and blemishes
- Heavy for their size
Preparing Sweet Potatoes for Dehydrating
To make sweet potato chips, you’ll need to slice the sweet potatoes very thinly. Here’s how to prepare them:
Peeling and Slicing Sweet Potatoes
- Peel the sweet potatoes using a vegetable peeler.
- Slice the sweet potatoes into very thin rounds, using a mandoline or sharp knife. Try to make the slices as uniform as possible so that they dehydrate evenly.
Soaking Sweet Potato Slices
To remove excess starch and help the sweet potato chips become crisper, soak the slices in cold water for at least 30 minutes. After soaking, drain the slices and pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Dehydrating Sweet Potato Chips
Now it’s time to dehydrate your sweet potato slices. Here’s how:
Setting Up Your Dehydrator
- Preheat your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C).
- Line the dehydrator trays with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Dehydrating Sweet Potato Slices
- Place the sweet potato slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays. Make sure not to overlap the slices.
- Dehydrate the sweet potato slices for 6-8 hours, or until they reach your desired level of crispiness.
Seasoning Your Sweet Potato Chips
Once your sweet potato chips are dehydrated, it’s time to add some flavor. Here are a few seasoning options:
Simple Salt and Pepper
- Sprinkle salt and pepper over the sweet potato chips.
- Toss the chips to coat evenly.
Spicy Paprika
- Mix together paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture over the sweet potato chips.
- Toss the chips to coat evenly.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your sweet potato chips to the next level:
- Experiment with Different Seasonings: Try using different herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika or dried thyme, to create unique flavor combinations.
- Add a Squeeze of Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can add a bright, citrusy flavor to your sweet potato chips.
- Try Different Sweet Potato Varieties: Experiment with different sweet potato varieties, such as the Okahijou or the Hannah, to see how they affect the flavor and texture of your chips.
Conclusion
Making sweet potato chips in a dehydrator is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a healthier snack option. By following these steps and experimenting with different seasonings and variations, you can create your perfect sweet potato chip. So go ahead, give it a try, and indulge in the crunchy delight of homemade sweet potato chips.
What are the benefits of making sweet potato chips in a dehydrator?
Making sweet potato chips in a dehydrator offers several benefits. Firstly, it allows for a healthier alternative to deep-fried chips, as it uses minimal oil and retains the natural nutrients of the sweet potatoes. Additionally, dehydrating sweet potatoes helps to preserve their flavor and texture, resulting in a crispy and delicious snack.
Dehydrating sweet potato chips also provides more control over the cooking process, allowing you to achieve the perfect level of crispiness. Furthermore, it’s a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option, as it eliminates the need for excessive oil and packaging. Overall, making sweet potato chips in a dehydrator is a great way to enjoy a tasty and nutritious snack while promoting a healthier lifestyle.
What type of sweet potatoes are best for making chips?
The best type of sweet potatoes for making chips are those that are high in starch, as they will yield a crisper texture. Look for sweet potato varieties like ‘Jewel’ or ‘Beauregard’, which are known for their high starch content and sweet flavor. Avoid using sweet potatoes that are too waxy or moist, as they may not dehydrate properly and can result in a chewy texture.
It’s also important to choose sweet potatoes that are firm and free of bruises or blemishes. This will ensure that your chips are evenly cooked and have a consistent texture. If you’re unsure about the type of sweet potatoes to use, you can always experiment with different varieties to find the one that works best for you.
How do I slice the sweet potatoes for making chips?
To slice the sweet potatoes for making chips, you’ll need a mandoline or a sharp knife. Slice the sweet potatoes very thinly, trying to make the slices as uniform as possible. This will help the chips dehydrate evenly and prevent some slices from becoming too crispy while others remain chewy.
It’s also a good idea to slice the sweet potatoes just before dehydrating them, as this will help to prevent them from browning or becoming discolored. If you need to slice the sweet potatoes ahead of time, be sure to soak them in cold water to prevent browning, and then pat them dry with a paper towel before dehydrating.
What temperature and time should I use for dehydrating sweet potato chips?
The ideal temperature and time for dehydrating sweet potato chips will depend on your personal preference for crispiness and the specific dehydrator model you’re using. As a general guideline, you can dehydrate sweet potato chips at a temperature of 135°F (57°C) for 6-8 hours. However, you may need to adjust the temperature and time based on your dehydrator’s specifications and your desired level of crispiness.
It’s also important to check on the chips periodically during the dehydrating process to ensure they’re not becoming too crispy or overcooked. You can always dehydrate them for a longer period of time if you prefer a crisper texture, but be careful not to overcook them, as this can result in a bitter flavor.
Can I add seasonings to my sweet potato chips?
Yes, you can definitely add seasonings to your sweet potato chips to give them extra flavor. Some popular seasonings for sweet potato chips include paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, and herbs like thyme or rosemary. You can sprinkle the seasonings over the sweet potato slices before dehydrating them, or you can mix them with a small amount of oil and brush the mixture onto the chips during the dehydrating process.
When adding seasonings, be sure to use them sparingly, as too much seasoning can overpower the natural flavor of the sweet potatoes. You can also experiment with different seasoning combinations to find the flavor that you enjoy the most. Just remember to adjust the amount of seasoning according to your personal taste preferences.
How do I store my sweet potato chips to keep them fresh?
To keep your sweet potato chips fresh, it’s essential to store them in an airtight container. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid to store the chips. Make sure the container is completely dry before adding the chips, as any moisture can cause them to become stale or develop off-flavors.
It’s also a good idea to store the sweet potato chips in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This will help to preserve their flavor and texture. If you don’t plan to consume the chips within a few days, you can also consider freezing them to keep them fresh for a longer period.
Can I make sweet potato chips in a dehydrator in large quantities?
Yes, you can make sweet potato chips in a dehydrator in large quantities, depending on the size of your dehydrator. If you have a large dehydrator with multiple trays, you can dehydrate multiple batches of sweet potato chips at once. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maximum capacity and temperature settings to ensure even cooking and to prevent overheating.
When making large quantities of sweet potato chips, it’s also essential to monitor the dehydrating process closely to ensure that the chips are not becoming too crispy or overcooked. You may need to adjust the temperature and time settings based on the quantity of chips you’re making, so be sure to check on them periodically during the dehydrating process.