How To Dehydrate Banana Chips
Learn how to dehydrate banana chips for a healthy and convenient snack the whole family will enjoy!
Bananas are a popular fruit for their natural sweetness and versatility.
Dehydrating bananas allows you to turn this beloved fruit into a convenient and long-lasting snack.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of dehydrating banana slices, discuss different flavor variations, and explain how to store them in vacuum-sealed Mason jars to extend their shelf life.
Why You Should Learn How To Dehydrate Banana Chips?
Dehydrating banana slices transforms them into a tasty, chewy snack that can be enjoyed on its own or added to other dishes. Here are some reasons why you should learn how to dehydrate banana chips:
- Healthy Snack: Dehydrated banana slices are a nutritious snack, packed with vitamins, potassium, and natural sugars, making them a healthier alternative to processed snacks.
- Long Shelf Life: Dehydrated bananas can last for several weeks or months when stored properly, providing a convenient snack option for busy days.
- Reduced Food Waste: If you have ripe bananas that might go to waste, dehydrating them is an excellent way to extend their life and reduce waste.
- Portable and Lightweight: Dehydrated banana slices are lightweight, making them easy to take on hikes, camping trips, or anywhere you need a quick energy boost.
How to Dehydrate Banana Slices
Dehydrating banana slices is simple and requires only a few basic steps. Here’s how you can do it at home:
Step 1: Choose Your Bananas
Select ripe bananas with a few brown spots, indicating they’re at their sweetest. Overly ripe bananas may not dehydrate well, while underripe bananas can be too firm.
Step 2: Slice the Bananas
Peel the bananas and cut them into even slices, about 1/4 inch thick. Consistent thickness ensures even drying and prevents some slices from becoming overly crispy while others remain chewy.
Step 3: Arrange on Dehydrator Trays
Place the banana slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they don’t overlap. If you’re using an oven, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the slices similarly.
Step 4: Dehydrate
Set the dehydrator to 135°F (57°C) and let the banana slices dry for 8-12 hours, depending on the desired texture. For chewy slices, dry for a shorter time; for crispy chips, leave them longer. If using an oven, set it to the lowest temperature and keep the door slightly open to allow moisture to escape.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Check the banana slices periodically to ensure they’re not over-drying or burning. The slices should be pliable but not sticky when they’re done.
Step 6: Cool and Store
Allow the dehydrated banana slices to cool completely before storing them. This step is crucial to prevent condensation in the storage container, which could cause spoilage.
Different Variations for Dehydrated Banana Slices
While plain dehydrated banana slices are delicious, you can add variations to suit your taste. Here are some ideas to try:
- Cinnamon Sugar: Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on the banana slices before dehydrating for a sweet and aromatic twist.
- Cocoa Dusting: Dust the banana slices with unsweetened cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor.
- Honey Glaze: Lightly brush the banana slices with honey before dehydrating for added sweetness and a glossy finish.
- Savory Spices: For a unique twist, sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder on the slices for a spicy kick.
Storing Dehydrated Banana Slices in Vacuum-Sealed Mason Jars
To extend the shelf life of dehydrated banana slices, vacuum-sealing them in Mason jars is an excellent option. Here’s how you can do it:
- Choose the Right Jars: Use Mason jars designed for vacuum sealing, ensuring they’re clean and dry.
- Fill the Jars: Place the dehydrated banana slices into the jars, leaving some space at the top (about 1/2 inch).
- Vacuum Seal: Use a vacuum sealer with a Mason jar attachment to remove the air from the jars and create an airtight seal.
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep the vacuum-sealed jars in a cool, dark location. This will help maintain the quality and freshness of the banana slices for several weeks to months.
Conclusion
Dehydrated banana chips are a healthy, convenient, and delicious snack. With different flavor variations and vacuum-sealed storage, you can enjoy these treats anytime and anywhere.
Whether you’re looking for a portable snack for outdoor activities or a guilt-free alternative to processed snacks, dehydrated banana chips are a fantastic choice.
Try out the various flavors and see which one becomes your new favorite
