Air Fryer Beet Chips Recipe

Air fryer beet chips have become a surprising staple in our household. Initially, I was a bit skeptical. Beets? As chips? My family, always eager taste testers, were equally curious. But after one batch, we were all converted. The air fryer works its magic, transforming humble beet slices into crispy, slightly sweet, and utterly addictive chips. Even my kids, who are usually wary of anything remotely resembling a vegetable, devoured them! They’re now a regular snack in our rotation, perfect for movie nights, afternoon munchies, or even as a vibrant side dish. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and so much healthier than store-bought potato chips. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a nutritious and delicious snack that’s both fun to make and even more fun to eat.

Ingredients

To embark on your air fryer beet chip adventure, you’ll need just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors of the beets to shine through, enhanced by a touch of oil and your choice of seasonings. Let’s delve into each ingredient and why it plays a crucial role in creating the perfect crispy beet chips.

• Beets: The star of the show! You’ll need about 2-3 medium-sized beets for this recipe. While red beets are the most common and provide that vibrant, earthy flavor we often associate with beets, don’t hesitate to experiment with other varieties. Golden beets offer a milder, sweeter taste and a beautiful golden hue, while Chioggia beets, with their striking red and white rings, add a visually stunning element to your chips. When selecting beets, choose firm, smooth beets without any soft spots or blemishes. Smaller to medium-sized beets are generally sweeter and cook more evenly. Fresh, raw beets are essential for this recipe; avoid using pre-cooked or canned beets as they won’t crisp up properly in the air fryer.
• Olive Oil (or Avocado Oil): A tablespoon of oil is all you need to achieve that perfect crispiness in the air fryer. Olive oil is a fantastic choice, lending a subtle fruity flavor and healthy monounsaturated fats. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits, but light olive oil works equally well if you prefer a less pronounced olive oil taste. Alternatively, avocado oil is another excellent option. It boasts a high smoke point, making it ideal for air frying, and has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower the beets. You could also use other neutral oils like canola oil or grapeseed oil, but olive or avocado oil are generally considered healthier and more flavorful choices. The oil is crucial for helping the beets crisp up and prevent them from drying out in the air fryer.
• Salt: A simple pinch of salt is essential to enhance the natural sweetness of the beets and balance out any earthy notes. Table salt works perfectly fine, but for a more nuanced flavor, consider using sea salt or kosher salt. Sea salt often has a slightly more complex mineral flavor, while kosher salt’s larger crystals adhere well to the beet slices. The salt also plays a role in drawing out moisture from the beets, which is key for achieving crispy chips.
• Optional Seasonings (to taste): This is where you can truly customize your air fryer beet chips and tailor them to your taste preferences. The possibilities are endless! Here are a few popular and delicious options to consider:
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic depth that complements the sweetness of the beets beautifully. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your liking.
  • Onion Powder: Similar to garlic powder, onion powder provides a savory and slightly pungent flavor that enhances the overall taste profile. Use about ½ teaspoon.
  • Smoked Paprika: For a smoky, slightly sweet, and vibrant flavor, smoked paprika is a fantastic addition. It also adds a lovely reddish hue to the chips. Start with ½ teaspoon.
  • Chili Powder: If you like a little heat, chili powder adds a warm, spicy kick. Use sparingly at first, starting with ¼ teaspoon, and add more to taste.
  • Italian Seasoning: For a herbaceous and aromatic twist, Italian seasoning brings a blend of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme. Use about ½ teaspoon.
  • Dried Thyme or Rosemary: These herbs offer a more subtle, earthy, and slightly piney flavor that pairs wonderfully with beets. Use about ¼ – ½ teaspoon of dried thyme or rosemary.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle bite and complexity. A few cracks of black pepper can elevate the flavor of the chips.
  • Cumin: For a warm, earthy, and slightly citrusy flavor, cumin is a great option. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to taste.
  • Lemon Pepper: The citrusy zest of lemon pepper brightens up the beet chips and adds a tangy flavor dimension.
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning: For a fun and flavorful twist, Everything Bagel seasoning provides a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt.

Remember, when it comes to seasonings, less is often more, especially when you’re first experimenting. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adjusting to your personal preferences. You can even divide your beet slices into smaller batches and try out different seasoning combinations to discover your favorite flavor profiles.

Instructions

Making air fryer beet chips is surprisingly straightforward and quick, especially once you get the hang of slicing the beets thinly. Follow these step-by-step instructions for consistently crispy and delicious results every time.

1. Prepare the Beets: Begin by thoroughly washing the beets under cool running water. Use a vegetable brush to scrub away any dirt or grit clinging to the skin. Once cleaned, trim off both ends of the beets. Peeling the beets is optional. For beet chips with a slightly more rustic and earthy flavor, you can leave the skin on. However, if you prefer a smoother texture or are using beets with tougher skins, peeling them is recommended. Use a vegetable peeler to remove the skin if desired.
2. Slice the Beets Thinly: This is the most crucial step for achieving crispy beet chips. The thinner you slice the beets, the crispier they will become in the air fryer. Aim for slices that are about 1/16 to 1/8 inch thick – think potato chip thin. The best tool for this is a mandoline slicer, if you have one. A mandoline ensures uniform slices of consistent thickness, which is essential for even cooking and crisping. However, if you don’t have a mandoline, you can use a sharp chef’s knife. Take your time and slice as thinly and evenly as possible. Uneven slices will cook at different rates, resulting in some chips being burnt while others are still soft. You can slice the beets into rounds or half-moons, depending on the size and shape of your beets and your personal preference.
3. Soak the Beet Slices (Optional but Recommended for Extra Crispiness): Soaking the beet slices in cold water for about 30 minutes to an hour can help remove excess starch, resulting in even crispier chips. Place the sliced beets in a bowl of cold water. You’ll notice the water might turn slightly pink or red as the beet juices leach out. After soaking, drain the beet slices thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture is the enemy of crispiness in the air fryer, so ensure the beet slices are as dry as possible before proceeding.
4. Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a medium-sized bowl, gently toss the dried beet slices with the olive oil (or avocado oil). Make sure each slice is lightly coated with oil. Then, sprinkle with salt and your chosen seasonings. Start with a small amount of seasoning and add more to taste. Toss again to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. You can use your hands to gently massage the oil and seasonings into the beet slices, making sure they are well coated.
5. Preheat Air Fryer (if required by your model): Some air fryer models recommend preheating, while others do not. Consult your air fryer’s manual for specific instructions. If preheating is recommended, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating helps ensure even cooking and crisping from the start.
6. Arrange Beet Slices in Air Fryer Basket: Carefully arrange the beet slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this will steam the beets instead of air frying them, preventing them from crisping up properly. Work in batches if necessary to ensure a single layer. If your air fryer basket is large enough, you might be able to fit all the beet slices in one batch, but it’s better to do multiple batches than to overcrowd the basket.
7. Air Fry the Beet Chips: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping the chips halfway through, around the 7-8 minute mark. The exact cooking time will vary depending on the thickness of your beet slices and your specific air fryer model. Start checking for crispiness around the 10-minute mark. The chips are done when they are crispy and slightly browned around the edges. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become burnt quickly.
8. Cool and Crisp Up Further: Once the beet chips are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, they will crisp up even further. Resist the temptation to eat them immediately out of the air fryer, as they will be softer when hot and reach their optimal crispiness as they cool.
9. Season Again (Optional): Once cooled, you can taste the beet chips and add a sprinkle of extra salt or any other seasonings if desired. This is also a great time to add a finishing touch, such as a squeeze of lemon juice or a dusting of parmesan cheese (if not vegan).
10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your air fryer beet chips immediately for the best crispiness. They are delicious on their own as a healthy snack or paired with your favorite dips. See the “How to Serve” section below for serving suggestions.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximate values – may vary based on beet size, oil quantity, and specific ingredients)

• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Serving Size: About ¼ of the batch
• Calories: Approximately 80-120 calories per serving

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

• Calories: 80-120 kcal
• Fat: 5-8g
  • Saturated Fat: <1g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 3-5g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1-2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 100-200mg (depending on salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugar: 5-8g (naturally occurring from beets)
• Protein: 1-2g
• Vitamin C: 5-10% DV
• Potassium: 5-10% DV
• Folate (Vitamin B9): 10-15% DV
• Manganese: 15-20% DV
• Iron: 2-4% DV

Note: These are estimated values. For precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and quantities used. Air fryer beet chips are generally a low-calorie, low-fat, and nutrient-rich snack compared to traditional potato chips. They are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, particularly folate, potassium, and manganese. They are also naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (includes washing, peeling – optional, slicing, and soaking – optional)
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes (per batch in the air fryer)
• Total Time: 25-35 minutes (depending on soaking and number of batches)

The active preparation time is relatively short, mainly involving slicing the beets. Soaking adds some passive time but can contribute to crispier results. The cooking time is quick, especially if you have a large air fryer and can cook the chips in fewer batches. Overall, air fryer beet chips are a relatively fast and easy snack to prepare, perfect for satisfying cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Serve

Air fryer beet chips are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Their vibrant color and unique flavor make them a delightful addition to various meals and snacks. Here are some creative and delicious serving suggestions:

• As a Healthy Snack:
  • On their own: Simply enjoy a bowl of crispy beet chips as a satisfying and guilt-free snack. Their natural sweetness and earthy flavor are delicious on their own.
  • With dips: Pair them with your favorite dips for a flavorful and textured snack experience. Consider these dip options:
    • Hummus: Classic hummus, roasted red pepper hummus, or white bean hummus.
    • Guacamole: Freshly made guacamole or store-bought for a creamy and vibrant dip.
    • Tzatziki: Greek yogurt-based tzatziki sauce for a cool and refreshing dip.
    • French Onion Dip: A creamy and savory classic pairing.
    • Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
    • Vegan Ranch Dip: A plant-based ranch dip for a creamy and flavorful option.
    • Baba Ghanoush: Smoky eggplant dip for a Middle Eastern-inspired pairing.
• As a Side Dish:
  • Alongside sandwiches or wraps: Instead of traditional potato chips, serve beet chips as a healthier and more colorful side with sandwiches, wraps, or burgers.
  • With salads: Crumble beet chips over salads for added crunch, flavor, and visual appeal. They pair particularly well with salads featuring goat cheese, feta, or citrus dressings.
  • With grilled meats or fish: Serve beet chips as a vibrant and flavorful side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
  • With vegetarian or vegan main courses: Beet chips complement vegetarian dishes like veggie burgers, lentil soup, or roasted vegetables beautifully.
• As a Topping or Garnish:
  • Soup garnish: Crumble beet chips over creamy soups like butternut squash soup, tomato soup, or beet soup for added texture and a pop of color.
  • Taco or bowl topping: Use crushed beet chips as a crunchy topping for tacos, burrito bowls, or grain bowls.
  • Charcuterie board addition: Add beet chips to your charcuterie or cheese board for a unique and colorful crunchy element.
  • Pizza topping: Get adventurous and try adding crumbled beet chips as a topping for homemade pizza after baking for a surprising textural element.
• For Parties and Gatherings:
  • Party snack platter: Include beet chips on a snack platter alongside other healthy snacks like veggie sticks, nuts, and fruits.
  • Appetizer for gatherings: Serve beet chips with a selection of dips as a colorful and healthy appetizer for parties or gatherings.
  • Unique chip option: Offer beet chips as a unique and unexpected chip option at your next party – they are sure to be a conversation starter!

Additional Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Beet Chips

To ensure your air fryer beet chips are consistently crispy, flavorful, and enjoyable, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Slice Uniformly Thin: As emphasized earlier, uniform thin slices are paramount for even cooking and crispiness. Invest in a mandoline slicer if you plan to make beet chips (or other vegetable chips) frequently. If using a knife, take your time and aim for consistent thickness. Thicker slices will be softer and may not crisp up fully, while uneven slices will cook unevenly, leading to some burnt and some undercooked chips.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food. Overcrowding the basket restricts airflow, causing the beets to steam instead of air fry, resulting in soggy chips. Work in batches if necessary to ensure the beet slices are arranged in a single layer with some space between them. This allows for optimal air circulation and even crisping.
3. Pat Beet Slices Thoroughly Dry: Moisture is the enemy of crispiness in the air fryer. After washing and slicing (and soaking, if you choose to soak), pat the beet slices completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. The drier the slices are, the better they will crisp up in the air fryer. You can even gently press the slices between layers of paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4. Experiment with Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings! While salt is essential, explore different flavor combinations to find your favorites. Try sweet seasonings like cinnamon and sugar for a sweet beet chip, or savory combinations like ranch seasoning, parmesan cheese and garlic powder (added after cooking), or even spicy blends. Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference.
5. Store Properly (if you have leftovers): Air fryer beet chips are best enjoyed fresh and crispy. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will lose some of their crispness over time, especially in humid environments. To try to revive some crispness, you can briefly reheat them in the air fryer at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes, but they won’t be as crispy as freshly made chips. It’s generally recommended to make only as much as you plan to consume in one sitting for the best texture and flavor.

FAQ About Air Fryer Beet Chips

Here are some frequently asked questions about making air fryer beet chips to help you troubleshoot and achieve perfect results:

Q1: Why are my beet chips not crispy?

A: The most common reason for soggy beet chips is excess moisture. Ensure you are slicing the beets thinly and uniformly, patting them completely dry after washing and slicing (and soaking), and avoiding overcrowding the air fryer basket. Soaking and then thoroughly drying the beet slices can also help remove excess starch and moisture, leading to crispier chips. Cooking at a slightly higher temperature for the last few minutes can also help crisp them up further, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Q2: Can I use pre-cooked beets for this recipe?

A: No, pre-cooked or canned beets are not recommended for air fryer beet chips. They already contain a high moisture content and will not crisp up properly in the air fryer. Raw beets are essential for achieving crispy chips.

Q3: What other seasonings can I use besides salt and pepper?

A: The seasoning possibilities are endless! Some delicious options include garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, Italian seasoning, dried thyme, dried rosemary, cumin, lemon pepper, Everything Bagel seasoning, cinnamon and sugar (for sweet chips), ranch seasoning, parmesan cheese (added after cooking), and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor (vegan option). Experiment to find your favorite flavor combinations!

Q4: How long do air fryer beet chips stay crispy?

A: Air fryer beet chips are best enjoyed immediately for maximum crispiness. They will start to lose their crispness over time, especially in humid conditions. If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they might remain somewhat crispy for a few hours, but they are most delicious within the first hour or two of being made.

Q5: Can I make a large batch of beet chips and store them for later?

A: While you can technically store leftover beet chips, they are best enjoyed fresh. They tend to lose their crispness upon storage. If you need to make a larger quantity, consider preparing the beet slices ahead of time (slicing and soaking) and storing them in the refrigerator in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Then, air fry them in batches just before serving for the best quality and crispiness.

Enjoy making and savoring your delicious and healthy air fryer beet chips! They are a fantastic way to enjoy beets in a fun and addictive snack form.

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