Beet Chips, Air-Fried: A Healthy, Easy Snack

Beetroot chips are a tasty, healthy snack that can be made in an air fryer. They are a great alternative to potato chips, offering a sweet taste and a satisfying crunch without the grease. You can use a variety of seasonings to flavour your beetroot chips, from cinnamon and brown sugar to smoked paprika and salt. They are also very easy to make, with a typical cook time of around 10-20 minutes.

Choosing the right beets

Freshness and Firmness:

Look for beets that are fresh and firm to the touch. Avoid beets that feel soft or mushy, as they may not hold their shape during the cooking process. Fresh beets will also have a brighter, more vibrant colour.

Colour:

Select beets with a deep, rich, and uniform colour. The colour of the beet will determine the final hue of your chips, so choose according to your preference. Red beets will give you a vibrant purple hue, while golden beets will result in a more yellowish tone.

Size:

Opt for small or medium-sized beets, as they tend to be more tender than larger ones. Smaller beets are also easier to work with and will cook faster. If you choose larger beets, you may need to adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Smoothness:

Choose beets that have smooth skins without any spots or blemishes. This indicates that the beets are fresh and haven't started to spoil. It also ensures that you won't have to cut away any undesirable portions before slicing.

Weight:

Beets should feel heavy for their size. This is a good indicator that they are juicy and packed with flavour. Lighter beets may be drier and less tasty.

Preparation:

Before cooking, give your beets a good scrub to remove any dirt. You can peel the beets if you prefer, but it's not necessary. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any residue.

Once you've selected the perfect beets, you can move on to slicing them into thin, uniform slices. You can use a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer for this step. Remember to preheat your air fryer and season your beet chips before placing them inside. Enjoy the sweet and crispy delights of your air fryer beet chips!

Seasoning the chips

Before placing the beet slices in the air fryer, it is recommended to toss them with a small amount of oil. Olive oil or avocado oil are popular choices, but other types of oil can also be used. Coating the beet slices with oil helps the seasoning adhere better and also promotes even cooking. Place the sliced beets in a bowl, add the oil, and stir or toss to ensure all the slices are evenly coated.

When it comes to seasoning, there are numerous options to consider. For a savoury version of beet chips, you can use herbs and spices such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Lightly sprinkle the seasoning of your choice over the oiled beet slices, ensuring that each slice is evenly coated. You can also experiment with other savoury seasonings like chilli powder, Italian herbs (garlic powder, dried parsley, oregano), or a combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt for a smoky BBQ flavour.

If you have a sweet tooth, there are seasoning options to satisfy those cravings as well. For a sweeter version of beet chips, you can sprinkle on a pinch of cinnamon, brown sugar, or Chinese five spice. These seasonings will give your beet chips a delightful sugary kick. You can also try a combination of coconut sugar and cinnamon for a churros-inspired flavour.

Keep in mind that the amount of seasoning you use will depend on your personal preference and the number of beet slices you are preparing. It is generally advisable to start with a smaller amount and adjust to your taste. Additionally, if you are using canned beets, they may already contain salt, so be mindful of that when adding additional seasoning.

Air frying temperature

Choosing the Right Temperature:

• It is recommended to air fry beet chips between 300°F and 375°F (149°C to 190°C). The most common temperature setting mentioned in recipes is 350°F (177°C).
• Keeping the temperature in this range will ensure that your beet chips cook evenly and achieve the desired crispiness without burning.

Cooking Time:

• The cooking time for beet chips in an air fryer will vary depending on the thickness of the slices, the wattage of your air fryer, and the specific recipe you are following.
• On average, beet chips will take around 10 to 15 minutes to cook in an air fryer. However, it is important to keep an eye on them and adjust the time as needed to avoid overcooking or burning.

Tips for Optimal Results:

• Preheat your air fryer before adding the beet slices. This will help ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Place the beet slices in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Overlapping the slices slightly is usually fine, as they will shrink during cooking.
• Flip or toss the beet slices halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking on both sides.
• Depending on the thickness of your slices, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Thinner slices may require a shorter cooking time, while thicker slices may need a few extra minutes.

Remember to refer to your specific air fryer's instructions and the recipe you are following for the most accurate temperature and timing recommendations.

Slicing the beets evenly

Firstly, select a medium-sized beet from your bunch and give it a thorough cleaning. Removing any dirt or residue ensures that the beet is ready for slicing. Use a sharp knife to cut off both ends of the beet, creating a flat surface to work with.

Now, instead of slicing the beet horizontally, opt for a vertical cut. This approach will result in much more symmetrical slices. If you find this method challenging, you can try an alternative technique by first slicing the beet in half. Then, you can easily cut the halves into even, uniform pieces.

For those seeking the ultimate precision in slicing, a Mandoline Slicer is a recommended tool. With a Mandoline Slicer, you can adjust the thickness of the beet slices to your desired level, typically around 1 mm to 1.6 mm. This tool ensures uniformity and saves time in the slicing process.

Remember, the cooking time in the air fryer will depend on the thickness of your slices. Thinner slices may require a shorter cooking time, while thicker slices might need a few extra minutes. Adjust your air fryer settings accordingly.

By following these tips, you'll be able to slice beets evenly and create delicious, crispy beet chips in your air fryer!

Storing the chips

Beet chips are best enjoyed fresh, straight out of the air fryer. However, if you have leftovers, there are a few ways to store them.

Room Temperature Storage

Beet chips can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. They will lose their crispiness over time, but this method is still effective for short-term storage.

Refrigerated Storage

For longer storage, place the beet chips in a glass airtight container and refrigerate them. They will stay fresh and crunchy for about 6-7 days. If they become soggy, you can reheat them in the air fryer at a lower temperature, such as 350°F for 1-2 minutes, to restore their crispiness.

Freezer Storage

You can also freeze beet chips in freezer-friendly containers. They will maintain their quality for up to one month in the freezer. However, some people dislike the texture of thawed beet chips, so consider this before choosing this storage method.

Paper Bag Storage

If you have made oil-free beet chips, it is recommended to store them in a paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days. Do not use an airtight container, as this will make the chips soggy.

Storing Compound Butter

If you have made flavoured compound butter for your beet chips, it is best to make it in advance and let it set in the refrigerator overnight before using it to flavour the beets.

Frequently asked questions