Craving a crunchy snack that’s both delicious and nutritious? These crispy baked beet chips are a fantastic choice for a healthy beet recipe that satisfies. You’ll love how simple they are to make and how vibrant they look.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Beets: Use fresh, firm beets. You can use golden beets for a different color.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil or grapeseed oil works well too.
- Salt: Flaky sea salt adds a nice touch.
Ingredients
- 2 medium beets, scrubbed and peeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- Pinch of black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 110 calories
- Tools Needed: Mandoline slicer (recommended) or sharp knife, baking sheets, parchment paper.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Beets
First, scrub your beets clean and peel them. Next, use a mandoline slicer set to 1/16-inch thickness to create very thin slices. If you don’t have a mandoline, use a very sharp knife to slice them as thinly and uniformly as possible.
2. Season the Beet Slices
In a medium bowl, gently toss the beet slices with olive oil, salt, and optional pepper. Make sure each slice is lightly coated for even crisping. This ensures your healthy beet recipe gets maximum flavor.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheets
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange the beet slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they don’t overlap. Overlapping slices will steam instead of crisp.
4. Bake Until Crispy
Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each beet chip carefully. Continue baking for another 15-25 minutes, or until the chips are crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes, as they can burn quickly.
5. Cool and Enjoy
Remove the beet chips from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheets. They will crisp up even more as they cool. Once cool, they’re ready to be enjoyed as a delightful healthy beet snack.
Variation Ideas
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika before baking.
- Herby Freshness: Toss with finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Garlic Lover: Add a tiny sprinkle of garlic powder for a savory boost.
- Sweet and Savory: A small sprinkle of brown sugar with the salt can create a delicious contrast.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover crispy baked beet chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For best results, allow them to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make them less crispy. Reheat them briefly in a low oven for a few minutes if they lose some crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why are my beet chips not crispy? You likely sliced them too thick or didn’t bake them long enough. Ensure thin, even slices and bake until firm to the touch.
- Do I have to peel the beets? While you can leave the skin on, peeling results in a smoother, more uniform chip texture.
- Can I use an air fryer? Yes, you can air fry beet chips! Arrange them in a single layer and air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
- Are these beet chips really healthy? Absolutely! They are a great source of fiber and nutrients, making them a fantastic healthy beet recipe alternative to fried potato chips.
- What if I don’t have a mandoline? A very sharp chef’s knife can work, but it requires more patience to achieve uniformly thin slices.
- Can I add other seasonings? Of course! Experiment with different spices like cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.