How to Make Sweet Potato Chips (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sweet Potato Chips, or 'Shakarkandi Chips', are a delightful Indian snack that blends tradition with modern health-conscious cooking. Popular across India, especially during winter and festival seasons like Diwali, these chips are made from shakarkandi (sweet potato), which is revered for its warming properties and sweet, earthy flavor. Unlike conventional potato chips, Sweet Potato Chips offer a unique taste and vibrant color, making them a favorite for festive platters and family gatherings. The Indian version of Sweet Potato Chips can be air-fried or baked, ensuring minimal oil use and maximum nutrition. Often spiced with chaat masala, red chili powder, and kala namak (black salt), these chips are a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. They are commonly served as an evening snack with chai or as a festive treat during Holi or Diwali. With roots in both street food and homestyle cooking, these chips are a healthy, vegetarian option that fits seamlessly into calorie-conscious diets. Their crisp texture and wholesome flavor make them a popular choice among children and adults alike, and the recipe adapts easily to regional tastes by varying the spices.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Wash and peel the shakarkandi (sweet potatoes)
Wash and peel the shakarkandi (sweet potatoes). Slice them thinly using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform chips.
Step 2 · Soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch
Soak the slices in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch. Pat dry thoroughly with a clean cloth.
Step 3 · Preheat your oven to 180°C or air fryer to 160°C
Preheat your oven to 180°C or air fryer to 160°C. Arrange the sweet potato slices on a parchment-lined tray or air fryer basket.
Step 4 · Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or sarson ka tel
Brush both sides lightly with olive oil or sarson ka tel. Sprinkle salt, chaat masala, kala namak, and optional spices evenly.
Step 5 · Bake or air fry for 15-20 minutes
Bake or air fry for 15-20 minutes, turning chips halfway for even browning. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 6 · Remove chips when golden and crisp
Remove chips when golden and crisp. Cool for 2 minutes, then garnish with fresh coriander and a dash of lemon juice.
Step 7 · Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later use
Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later use.
Why this recipe is healthy
This recipe is a healthy choice due to its use of baked or air-fried techniques, reducing oil and calories. Sweet potatoes are naturally lower in glycemic index, making them suitable for diabetics and weight-watchers. The addition of Indian spices enhances flavor without adding extra calories, and the recipe can be easily adapted to vegan and kid-friendly versions. Overall, it's a guilt-free snack with wholesome ingredients.
A note on tradition
Shakarkandi Chips are commonly enjoyed across North India, especially during winter and festival seasons like Diwali and Holi. Street vendors in Delhi and Lucknow often serve shakarkandi snacks with masala toppings. The dish is popular during fasting (vrat) days, as sweet potatoes are allowed and sendha namak is used. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a staple for festive gatherings and evening chai breaks.