Name: Crispy Kerala Banana Chips (Nenthra-Kaaya Upperi)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 Surti Bananas; 1/2 tsp Salt (adjust to taste); 2 cup Coconut Oil (or other high-heat oil suitable for deep frying); Paper Towels (for draining excess oil); 1 Airtight Container (for storage)

Crispy Kerala Banana Chips (Nenthra-Kaaya Upperi)

25 minutes

1149 reads

4.50 from 8 votes

South Indian

About Crispy Kerala Banana Chips (Nenthra-Kaaya Upperi)

Discover the delightful crunch of Kerala Banana Chips, a beloved South Indian snack known as Nenthra-Kaaya Upperi or Upperi. These vibrant yellow chips, traditionally made with Surti bananas and fried in fragrant coconut oil, offer an authentic taste of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

Also known as Kela Chips across India, this recipe delivers perfectly crispy, savory chips—a nostalgic treat perfect for snacking or serving with a cup of chai. The special Surti bananas impart a unique yellow hue and delicious flavor.

Follow our simple step-by-step instructions to make this iconic snack at home and experience the true taste of South India!

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Recipe Time & More

Prep10

Cook15

Total25

Calories147 kcal

Serves

Served AsSnacks

Recipe TasteAstringent Salty

Ingredients

Bananas

▢ 2 Surti Bananas also known as nenthra pazham in kerala. ripe but firm bananas will work, plantains, but surti bananas give the best flavor and color.

Seasoning

▢ 1/2 tsp Salt adjust to taste

Frying

▢ 2 cup Coconut Oil or other high-heat oil suitable for deep frying
▢ Paper Towels for draining excess oil
▢ 1 Airtight Container for storage

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Instructions

Prepare the Bananas

Cut off the ends of the two bananas.
Make vertical cuts in the banana peel without cutting into the fruit itself.
Peel the banana.

Slice the Bananas

Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, thinly slice the peeled bananas lengthwise. Aim for even slices about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking.

Fry the Banana Chips

Heat the coconut oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough that a small piece of banana sizzles immediately when dropped in.
Carefully add the banana slices to the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Drain and Season

Remove the fried chips with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Sprinkle the banana chips with salt while they are still warm.

Cool and Store

Allow the banana chips to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Serve and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Chips

Choose the Right Bananas: Surti bananas are ideal, but ripe yet firm plantains work well. Avoid overripe bananas as they may be too soft for frying.
Even Slicing is Key: Uniformly thin slices ensure even cooking and prevent some pieces from burning before others are crispy. A mandoline slicer is recommended for consistent results.
Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Frying in batches prevents the temperature of the oil from dropping too much, ensuring crispier chips.
Proper Cooling and Storage: Allow the chips to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps them crisp for longer.