Kerala Banana Chips Recipe – Irresistibly Crispy Onam Special Snack

When it comes to festive snacking, nothing matches the charm of Kerala Banana Chips Recipe. Known locally as Ethakka Upperi, these crunchy delights are an essential part of the Onam Sadya – the grand vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. Unlike regular banana wafers, these chips are made using Nendran bananas and fried in aromatic coconut oil, giving them a flavor and crispness that is unmatched.

If you’ve ever tasted them in Kerala, you’ll know why they’re special. And the best part? You can easily make them at home with just a few simple steps.

In a Nutshell:

Kerala Banana Chips, or Ethakka Upperi, are a crispy, golden snack made from unripe Nendran bananas fried in coconut oil. Soaking bananas in turmeric water, frying at medium heat, and seasoning with salt ensures the authentic crispness and flavor. Serve fresh, store in airtight jars, and enjoy as part of festive meals or casual snacking.

The Cultural Connection – Banana Chips & Onam Sadya

In Kerala, Onam is not just a festival; it’s an experience of food, culture, and tradition. The Sadya (traditional feast) includes over 20 dishes, and right at the start, placed on the top-left corner of the banana leaf, is a handful of crispy golden banana chips.

• They symbolize hospitality and abundance.
• They balance out the flavors of gravies, pickles, and curries in Sadya.
• They are also a tea-time favorite in Kerala households.

So, if you are planning your Onam Sadya this year, these chips are non-negotiable!

Must Read: Onam Sadya Recipes Made Simple – Delicious Festive Dishes You Must Try

Kerala Banana Chips vs Regular Banana Wafers

Many confuse banana chips with the regular wafers sold across India. But here’s how Kerala’s version stands out:

• ✅ Banana Variety: Uses Nendran bananas (firm, starchy, unique taste).
• ✅ Oil Used: Traditionally fried in coconut oil for that authentic aroma.
• ✅ Preparation: Bananas are soaked in turmeric water before frying.
• ✅ Seasoning: Salt solution is sprinkled directly into the hot oil for an even flavor.

This is why the Kerala Banana Chips Recipe has a golden-yellow color, crisp crunch, and a distinctive flavor profile.

Check Out: Onam Traditions: Fascinating Rituals That Celebrate Kerala’s Glorious Festival

Step-by-Step Kerala Banana Chips Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 unripe Nendran bananas (500–550 g)
• 4 cups water
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• ½ cup water + 1 tablespoon salt (for salt solution)
• 1.5 cups coconut oil (for frying)

Preparation

1. Wash and peel the unripe bananas.
2. Soak in turmeric water for 30–40 minutes.
3. Pat dry completely before frying.
4. Prepare salt solution in a separate bowl.

Frying Method

1. Heat coconut oil in a kadai on medium flame.
2. Slice bananas thinly (preferably using a mandoline slicer) directly into the oil.
3. Stir with a slotted spoon to prevent sticking.
4. Fry until light crisp, then sprinkle salt solution. Be careful – the oil will sizzle.
5. Continue frying until completely crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on a paper towel.
7. Store in an airtight jar once cooled.

Check Out: Onam 2025: Joyful Grand Festival of Kerala – Dates, Rituals, and Powerful Significance

Expert Tips for Perfect Kerala Banana Chips

• Always use unripe, green-skinned Nendran bananas for the best results.
• Fry only on medium heat – low heat makes chips oily, high heat burns them.
• If you don’t have coconut oil, use sunflower oil (though flavor will differ).
• If chips turn soft later, reheat in a microwave for 1 minute to make them crisp again.
• For variation, sprinkle black pepper, chili powder, or even curry leaves after frying.

Storage & Serving Ideas

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature. Stays fresh for up to 2 weeks.
• Serve as:
  • Part of Onam Sadya feast
  • Evening snack with South Indian Filter Coffee
  • Party platter along with Murukku and Pakoras

Beyond Chips – Zero-Waste Cooking with Banana Peels

Don’t throw away the banana peels! In Kerala households, peels are often used to make a delicious stir-fry (Banana Peel Thoran). It’s a sustainable and nutritious way to reduce food waste.

Making Kerala Banana Chips Recipe at home is easier than you think – and the results are always worth it. Crunchy, salty, and golden, they are the perfect Onam snack to enjoy with family and friends.

This year, try making a fresh batch of Ethakka Upperi instead of buying from the store. Trust us, once you’ve tasted the homemade version fried in coconut oil, there’s no going back.

👉 Add these chips to your Onam Sadya spread and watch them disappear faster than any curry!