Jackfruit Chips
Crispy, golden-fried chips made from unripe jackfruit, a beloved traditional snack from Kerala. Perfectly seasoned with salt, they are an irresistible, crunchy treat for any time of day.
For 6 servings
8 steps. 25 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Workspace and Jackfruit
- b.Generously apply 1 tbsp of coconut oil to your hands and knife to prevent the jackfruit's sticky latex from adhering.
- c.Cut the raw jackfruit into large sections. Carefully remove the central core and the outer spiky skin.
- d.Separate the individual bulbs from the fibrous parts. Slit open each bulb and remove the seed inside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Slice the Bulbs
- b.Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the deseeded jackfruit bulbs into thin, uniform slices. Consistent thickness is key for even frying.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Soak in Turmeric Water
- b.In a large bowl, dissolve the turmeric powder in 8 cups of water.
- c.Add the jackfruit slices to the turmeric water and let them soak for 15-20 minutes. This helps remove any residual latex and imparts a beautiful golden color.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Drain and Dry Thoroughly
- b.Drain the soaked slices completely using a colander.
- c.Spread the slices in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Pat them completely dry. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness and preventing oil splatters.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Heat Oil for Frying
- b.Pour 3 cups of coconut oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pan (kadai) and heat over medium-high flame. The oil is ready when a small slice dropped in sizzles and rises to the surface immediately (around 350°F / 175°C).
- 6
Step 6
- a.Fry the Chips in Batches
- b.Carefully slide a handful of the dried jackfruit slices into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.
- c.Fry for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vigorous bubbling subsides and the chips are golden brown and crisp.
- d.Using a slotted spoon, remove the chips from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- 7
Step 7
- a.Season and Cool
- b.While the chips are still hot, transfer them to a large bowl.
- c.Sprinkle with salt and optional red chili powder. Toss gently to coat evenly.
- d.Allow the chips to cool completely to room temperature before storing.
- 8
Step 8
- a.Store for Freshness
- b.Once completely cool, store the jackfruit chips in an airtight container to maintain their crunch. They will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
What to keep in mind.
7 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Always use firm, unripe jackfruit. Ripe jackfruit is sweet and will not turn crispy.
- 2Oiling your hands and knife is essential to manage the sticky latex from the jackfruit.
- 3For perfectly uniform slices, use a mandoline slicer with caution and always use the safety guard.
- 4Ensure the slices are completely dry before frying to prevent oil from splattering and to get the crispiest results.
- 5Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chips.
- 6Listen to the sound of frying. A sharp, crackling sound indicates the moisture has evaporated and the chips are done.
- 7Season the chips while they are still hot, as this helps the salt and spices adhere better.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Add 1/2 teaspoon of freshly crushed black pepper along with the salt for a classic peppery kick.
SpicySpicy
For a 'masala' version, toss the hot chips with a mixture of salt, red chili powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of chaat masala.
AromaticAromatic
Fry a few curry leaves in the oil until crisp after the last batch of chips is done. Crumble them over the seasoned chips for extra aroma and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
Unripe jackfruit is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion, promotes a feeling of fullness, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Source of Key Nutrients
Jackfruit provides essential nutrients like potassium, which is important for heart health and blood pressure regulation, as well as Vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts the immune system.
Provides Energy
As a good source of complex carbohydrates, jackfruit offers a sustained release of energy, making these chips a more filling snack than many processed alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
While unripe jackfruit is nutritious and high in fiber, these chips are deep-fried, making them high in calories and fat. They are best enjoyed as a delicious, occasional treat in moderation rather than a daily health food.