How to Make Sweet Potato Chips in the Microwave

Sweet potato chips are a delicious and healthy snack option you can easily make at home. Unlike store-bought chips, homemade sweet potato chips can be prepared with minimal oil, making them a healthier alternative. Plus, when made in the microwave, they’re quick to prepare, crispy, and full of flavor. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make sweet potato chips in the microwave using simple steps and ingredients.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make sweet potato chips in the microwave, you need the following ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato: Choose a firm, fresh sweet potato for the best results.
• Olive oil or cooking spray: For lightly coating the sweet potato slices.
• Salt: To taste.
• Optional seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, or cinnamon for a bit of extra flavor.

Equipment Needed

• Microwave: To cook the sweet potato chips.
• Microwave-safe plate: Make sure the plate is large enough to hold all the slices in a single layer.
• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer: To cut the sweet potato into thin, even slices.
• Paper towels: For blotting excess moisture from the sweet potato slices.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sweet Potato Chips in the Microwave

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potato

1. Wash and Peel: Start by thoroughly washing the sweet potato under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can peel the sweet potato if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds extra fiber and nutrients.
2. Slice the Sweet Potato: Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer, cut the sweet potato into very thin, even slices. Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices will become crispier in the microwave.
3. Tip: A mandoline slicer is ideal for getting even slices, but if you’re using a knife, take your time to make sure each slice is uniform in thickness for even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Sweet Potato Slices

1. Blot the Slices: Place the sweet potato slices on a paper towel and blot them to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving crispy chips.
2. Add Oil and Seasoning: Lightly coat the sweet potato slices with olive oil or cooking spray. Sprinkle salt and any additional seasonings you like, such as paprika or garlic powder, over the slices. Ensure both sides are well-coated for the best flavor.
3. Note: You don’t need to use a lot of oil; just enough to lightly coat the slices.

Step 3: Arrange the Slices on a Plate

1. Prepare the Plate: Take a microwave-safe plate and arrange the seasoned sweet potato slices in a single layer. Avoid overlapping the slices, as this will cause them to cook unevenly.
2. Pro Tip: If you have a small microwave, you may need to cook the chips in batches to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.

Step 4: Microwave the Sweet Potato Chips

1. Microwave in Intervals: Set your microwave to high power and cook the sweet potato slices for 2-3 minutes. After the initial cooking time, check the chips and flip them over to ensure even cooking.
2. Continue Cooking: Microwave the chips for another 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. The total cooking time will vary depending on your microwave’s power and the thickness of the slices. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals until the chips are golden brown and crispy.
3. Important: Keep a close eye on the chips, especially in the final minutes, as they can quickly go from crispy to burnt.

Step 5: Let the Chips Cool

1. Remove and Cool: Once the chips are done, carefully remove them from the microwave. They will continue to crisp up as they cool, so let them sit on the plate for a few minutes before eating.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Your microwave sweet potato chips are now ready to be enjoyed! They make a perfect snack on their own or can be served with a dip like hummus, guacamole, or Greek yogurt.

Tips for the Perfect Microwave Sweet Potato Chips

• Choose Fresh Sweet Potatoes: Fresh sweet potatoes have the best flavor and texture for making chips.
• Uniform Slices: For even cooking, make sure your sweet potato slices are all the same thickness.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the slices in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to soggy chips.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try different seasonings like cinnamon for a sweet variation or chili powder for a spicy kick.

Why Make Sweet Potato Chips in the Microwave?

Microwaving sweet potato chips offers several benefits:

• Healthier Option: Less oil is needed compared to frying, making this a healthier snack.
• Quick and Easy: The entire process takes less than 10 minutes, perfect for a quick snack.
• Customizable: You can control the seasonings and flavors to suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use regular potatoes or other types like Yukon Gold or Russet. Just follow the same steps.

2. How do I store leftover sweet potato chips?

Store them in an airtight container to keep them crisp. If they lose their crunch, you can reheat them in the microwave for 30 seconds.

3. Can I make these chips in a conventional oven?

Absolutely! You can bake the slices in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Conclusion

Making sweet potato chips in the microwave is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, homemade snack in just a few minutes. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can create a delicious treat that’s perfect for satisfying those crunchy cravings. Give this recipe a try, and you might find it becoming a regular snack in your home!