Ingredients
Method
Prep the Plantains
- Heat the oven to 190C / 375F. Line a 33 x 46 cm / 13 x 18 inch sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Cut the ends off each plantain, then score the peel lengthwise in 3 to 4 strips with a paring knife. Peel back the skin with your fingers, using the knife to help lift stubborn spots since green plantain peel doesn't pull away as easily as a ripe banana.
- Slice the plantains crosswise into rounds 1.5 to 2mm thick using a mandoline. This step decides whether your chips end up crisp or chewy, so take your time here.
- Zest the lime into a large mixing bowl, then juice it into the same bowl. Add the olive oil, salt, and chili powder if using, and whisk to combine.
- Add the plantain slices to the bowl and toss with your hands until every slice is coated in the lime-oil mixture.
Bake the Chips
- Arrange the slices in a single layer on the sheet pan, leaving space between each one so they roast instead of steam.
- Bake for 12 minutes, then flip each chip with tongs. Bake another 10 to 13 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and curling.
- Remove from the oven and let the chips cool on the pan for 5 minutes. They crisp up further as they cool, so don't judge them straight out of the oven.
- Transfer to a bowl and serve with extra lime zest on top if you like.
Notes
- Score the plantain peel with a knife before peeling; green plantains don't peel like ripe bananas.
- Slice evenly at 1.5 to 2mm thick for consistent crisping.
- Don't overlap slices on the pan or they'll steam instead of crisp.
- Chips crisp more as they cool, so wait 5 minutes before tasting.
