Beet Chips In An Air Fryer: Healthy, Quick, And Crispy!

Air fryers are a great way to make healthier versions of your favourite snacks. If you're looking for a healthier alternative to potato chips, air-fried beet chips are a great option. Not only are they packed with nutrients, but they're also crispy, sweet, and surprisingly addictive.

In this article, we'll explore the benefits of making beet chips in an air fryer, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make them, and offer tips for ensuring perfect results every time. We'll also suggest some creative ways to serve these vibrant, crispy treats.

Choosing the right beets

Select Fresh and Firm Beets: Look for beets that are fresh and firm to the touch. Avoid beets that feel soft or have spots and blemishes on their surface. Fresh beets will not only taste better but also have a more appealing texture after cooking.

Go for Deep, Rich Colour: Opt for beets with a deep, rich colour. Whether you choose the classic red beets or experiment with golden or striped varieties, make sure they have an intense and vibrant hue. This will not only make your chips visually appealing but also indicates a higher concentration of certain nutrients.

Size Matters: Smaller beets are generally easier to work with and take less time to cook. Larger beets, such as Bull's Blood beets, can be harder to slice and may require a longer cooking time. If you're short on time or prefer a more manageable option, go for the smaller ones.

Beets with Greens: When buying beets, look for those that still have their green leaves attached. These greens are packed with nutrients like potassium and vitamins. You can sauté them as a side dish or chop and add them to your favourite recipes.

Organic and Smooth-Skinned Beets: If you can find organic beets with thin, smooth skin, you can choose to leave the skin on for added fibre and nutrients. Just make sure to give them a good scrub to remove any dirt or debris. If the beets have thicker or rougher skin, it's best to peel them before slicing.

Seasonal Availability: Try to source beets that are in season, as they will likely be at their freshest and most flavourful. Each type of beet has its own season, so check with your local farmer's market or produce supplier to find out when your favourite variety is in abundance.

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to choosing the perfect beets for your air fryer beet chips. Remember to select beets that are fresh, firm, and deeply coloured, and don't be afraid to experiment with different varieties to find your favourite.

Seasoning the beet chips

• Use herbs and spices: Different herbs and spices can be used to add flavour to your beet chips. Some popular options include garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt, cinnamon, brown sugar, and Chinese five spice. These seasonings can be lightly sprinkled on the chips before placing them in the air fryer.
• Sweet and savoury options: Depending on your preference, you can go for a sweeter version of beet chips by adding cinnamon, brown sugar, or Chinese five spice. Alternatively, you can enhance the savoury aspect by using garlic powder, smoked paprika, or salt.
• Oils: Using oils like extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil can add flavour and help the chips cook evenly. You can toss the beet slices in oil before placing them in the air fryer.
• Butter: For a richer flavour, you can marinate the beet slices in compound butter. Lemon balm butter, scallion butter, or plain butter with added herbs like dill weed or tarragon are some options to consider.
• Spicy kick: If you enjoy spicy food, you can add a little black pepper or garlic powder to the seasoning mix. Alternatively, chilli powder can be used to give your beet chips a nice kick.
• Creative combinations: Get creative with your seasonings! Try unique combinations like a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a dash of cinnamon. These creative twists can elevate the flavour of your beet chips.
• Salt: While salt is a basic seasoning, it can significantly enhance the flavour of your beet chips. You can use sea salt or kosher salt according to your preference.

Air fryer temperature

The air fryer temperature you use for making beet chips is important to get right. If you cook them at too high a temperature, the outside will burn and the inside will remain raw. Therefore, it is recommended to keep the temperature low, at around 300°F-350°F (150°C-177°C).

The exact temperature and cooking time will depend on the thickness of your beet slices, the wattage of your air fryer, and the temperature of the beets. Thinner slices will cook more quickly, and room temperature beets will cook faster than cold beets.

It is also important to preheat your air fryer for the best results. Preheat on the hottest setting for 10 minutes, with the basket inside, to prevent sticking.

When cooking the beet chips, you should cook them for around 10-22 minutes, checking them regularly to ensure they don't burn. You may need to adjust the temperature and cooking time depending on the thickness of your slices and the model of your air fryer.

If you are using an oven-style air fryer, you can cook the beet chips at a slightly higher temperature of 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.

Slicing the beets evenly

Slicing beets evenly is a crucial step in making beet chips in the air fryer. Here are some tips to achieve uniform slices:

Select the Right Beet

When preparing beet chips, it is essential to choose beets that are fresh and firm, with a deep, rich colour. Avoid beets that are soft or have spots and blemishes. Make sure to wash and peel the beets before slicing them.

Use a Mandoline Slicer

For the most consistent results, a mandoline slicer is your best tool. Adjust the thickness of the slicer to around 1/8 inch (3 mm) for beet chips. This ensures that your beet slices are all the same thickness, promoting even cooking.

If you don't have a mandoline slicer, you can use a sharp knife.

Slice the Beet Vertically or Halve It First

Instead of slicing the beet horizontally, try cutting it vertically. This method yields more symmetrical slices. Alternatively, you can slice the beet in half and then cut the halves into even, uniform pieces.

Slice at a Thickness of 1/8" to 1/4"

The ideal thickness for beet chips is between 1/8 inch (about 3 mm) and 1/4 inch (about 6 mm). Slices thinner than 1/8 inch may stick together and not crisp up as well, while thicker slices may burn before reaching the desired crispness.

Pat the Beets Dry

After washing your beets, use a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step helps the beets crisp up more effectively in the air fryer.

By following these tips, you'll be able to slice beets evenly, ensuring your beet chips cook uniformly and turn out perfectly crispy!

Storing the beet chips

Storing beet chips is a simple process, but it's important to do it properly to maintain their freshness and crispiness. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store your beet chips:

Storing Beet Chips in the Refrigerator:

Beet chips can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh and crunchy for up to one week. This is a great option if you plan on eating the chips within a few days. Place the container in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator to maintain optimal freshness.

Storing Beet Chips in the Freezer:

If you want to extend the shelf life of your beet chips, consider freezing them. Place the chips in a freezer-friendly container or bag and store them in the freezer. Frozen beet chips can last for up to one month. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them by running them under cold water for a couple of minutes.

Storing Beet Chips at Room Temperature:

If you plan on eating your beet chips within a day or two, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, it's important to note that they may start to lose their crispiness and become slightly soggy. Additionally, make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight or heat sources, as this can affect their texture and taste.

Tips for Storing Beet Chips:

• It is recommended to let the beet chips cool to room temperature before storing them.
• To maintain the crispiness of the chips, reheat them in the air fryer at a lower temperature of around 350°F for 1-2 minutes if they become soggy.
• Check the chips frequently while they are in the air fryer to prevent overcooking or burning.
• If you notice any spoilage or growth on the chips, remove them immediately to prevent the spread to other chips.
• Always wash and dry your beets thoroughly before slicing and cooking them to remove any dirt or excess moisture.

By following these storage instructions, you can enjoy your delicious and nutritious air fryer beet chips for longer!

Frequently asked questions