National Dish Ghana: Plantain Chips (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Plantain Chips, one of Ghana’s most-loved snacks! These golden, deep-fried slices of plantain are crisp, lightly salted and strike a moreish balance between sweet and savoury. Perfect as a nibble to share or a quick bite on the go, they bring the sunny flavours of West Africa straight to your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that disappears in minutes.
About Plantain Chips
Plantain Chips are a hugely popular snack enjoyed across Ghana and much of West Africa. These golden, deep-fried pieces of plantain are not only wonderfully crisp and salty, they also offer a lovely interplay of sweetness and spice. Equally at home as an appetiser or a casual treat between meals, they are a delicious way to bring the aromas of Ghana into your own cooking. In this article we walk you through a simple recipe that is easy to recreate at home.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 ripe plantains
- Oil, for deep-frying
- Salt, to taste
- Optional: spices such as paprika or chilli
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for plantain chips are easy to track down. Plantains can be found in most supermarkets or at Asian and African grocery shops. Be sure to choose ripe plantains, as these deliver the best flavour and the right texture for the chips. If you fancy adding spices, you have plenty of options to lend the dish a personal touch. Similar humble roots and tubers appear right across Ghanaian cuisine, from chips to stews.
Preparing the dish
Before you start frying the plantain chips, a little preparation goes a long way. Cut the plantains into thin slices so they cook evenly and turn out nice and crisp. You can slice them either on the diagonal or straight across, depending on the shape you prefer. Leave the cut slices to air-dry for at least 15 minutes to draw off excess moisture and boost the crispness.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the oil in a deep pan or fryer to around 180 °C.
- Carefully add the sliced plantains to the hot oil.
- Fry for about 3–5 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Lift the chips out with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
- Season the freshly fried chips at once with salt and any optional spices.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
Plantain chips are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, which makes them a brilliant snack for anyone with those intolerances. Do double-check that any spices you use are gluten-free too. If you are after a healthier version, you can bake the chips in the oven rather than deep-frying them. This cuts down the fat content and makes the snack lighter still.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Plantain chips are ideal for vegans and vegetarians, as they contain no animal products whatsoever. To make them even more enjoyable, reach for a range of plant-based spices to give the chips different flavours. Experiment with herbs and spices to create your own signature blends. These chips also make a superb partner for all sorts of vegan dips.
More tips and tricks
To make the very best plantain chips, it is important to bring the oil up to the right temperature. If the oil is not hot enough, the chips turn greasy instead of crisp. Another handy tip is not to overcrowd the pan when you begin frying, as this lowers the oil temperature and the chips cook unevenly. Finally, you can dust the chips with a little extra seasoning after frying to intensify the flavour.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
One of the great things about making plantain chips is how easily you can tailor the recipe to your own preferences. Vary the spices by adding smoked paprika for a smoky note or garlic powder for extra savoury depth. If you prefer something sweeter, a pinch of cinnamon or sugar creates a lovely sweet variation. Let your creativity run free! For a spicier, marinated take, try Kelewele.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have plantains to hand, you can usually use green bananas instead, though the flavour and texture will differ slightly. If you would rather skip the frying, try roasting the plantains in the oven for a healthier option — experiment a little to find the perfect baking time. The choice of oil can be varied too; use olive oil, for instance, for a different flavour. Root vegetables also shine in dishes like Yam Chips and Fried Cassava Balls.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with plantain chips. A cold, refreshing beer or a fizzy lemonade makes an ideal companion. If you fancy something more exotic, try a glass of fresh fruit juice or a tropical cocktail to round out the tasting experience. The interplay of the crisp chips with your chosen drink makes for an unforgettable treat. A homemade Ginger Beer is another lively match.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present plantain chips can really lift the enjoyment. Serve the chips in a pretty bowl or on a fresh leaf for a natural touch. Round out the display with dips such as homemade guacamole or a zesty salsa. The combination of colours and textures will please the eye as well as delight your guests.
A bit of history
Plantain chips have a long tradition in West African cooking, and in Ghana in particular. They are a fine example of how local ingredients can be turned into tasty snacks. The use of plantains is deeply woven into the culture of the region, where they are regarded as a staple food. Deep-frying has established itself over generations as a favourite way to heighten the natural flavour of the plantains.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Plantain Chips
All in all, plantain chips are a simple, delicious snack that offers a wonderful combination of crispness and flavour. Whether you enjoy them as an appetiser or a bite between meals, plantain chips are a great way to bring the aromas of Ghana into your kitchen. With just a few ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you can easily recreate this tasty treat and delight your family and friends. Let the many ways to adapt it inspire you to create a snack that is all your own!
