Purple Yam Chips Recipe – Easy Air Fryer Snack

Last Updated on 6 months ago by Neha Deshmukh

Purple Yam Chips Recipe – Easy Air Fryer Snack

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s for the most vibrant, delicious, and surprisingly easy purple yam chips! I stumbled upon purple yams at my local market a few months ago and immediately wondered how they’d taste as chips. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint. They’re a fantastic alternative to regular potato chips, and honestly, a little more fun to make (and eat!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These aren’t your average chips. They’re a beautiful, eye-catching snack that’s also packed with nutrients. Plus, making them in the air fryer means less oil and a whole lot of crispiness. Seriously, once you try these, you might just forget about store-bought chips altogether! They’re ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick snack or a colourful addition to any gathering.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these beauties:

• 250 grams purple yam (about 1 medium yam)
• 1 tsp oil (I like to use avocado or coconut oil)
• A pinch of Himalayan pink salt

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about these ingredients for a sec, because choosing the right ones can really make a difference!

Purple Yam: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Purple yams, also known as ube, are a fantastic source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They have a slightly sweet, nutty flavour that’s really lovely. You can usually find them at Asian grocery stores or even some well-stocked supermarkets.

Himalayan Pink Salt: Benefits and Flavor Profile

I prefer Himalayan pink salt for these chips because of its subtle mineral flavour. It just elevates the taste! But regular table salt works just fine if that’s what you have on hand.

Oil Selection for Air Frying

When it comes to oil, you want something with a high smoke point. Avocado oil and coconut oil are my go-to choices. They both add a subtle flavour that complements the yam beautifully. You could also use sunflower or vegetable oil.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super simple, I promise.

First, give your purple yam a good wash, then peel it. Now, carefully slice it into thin, even pieces – about 1-2mm thick is ideal. I find a mandoline slicer really helps with this, but a sharp knife works too!

Pop those slices into a bowl of water for about 10 minutes. This helps soften them up a little and makes them extra crispy.

Drain the yam slices and pat them really dry with a kitchen towel. This is important! Any excess moisture will steam the chips instead of frying them.

Now, preheat your air fryer to 180°C (356°F) for 5 minutes. While it’s heating up, toss the yam slices with the oil and a pinch of Himalayan pink salt in a bowl. Make sure everything is nicely coated.

Arrange the yam slices in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd it – you might need to work in batches.

Cook for 10 minutes, then give the basket a good shake or toss the chips with tongs. This ensures they cook evenly.

Cook for another 10 minutes, toss again, then reduce the temperature to 160°C (320°F) and cook for a final 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them during this last stage – you want them golden and crispy, but not burnt!

Serve immediately while they’re still hot and crispy. Trust me, they disappear fast!

Expert Tips

Want to take your purple yam chips to the next level? Here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way:

Achieving Maximum Crispiness

The key to crispy chips is removing as much moisture as possible. Don’t skip the soaking step, and definitely pat them dry thoroughly.

Preventing Sticking in the Air Fryer

A light coating of oil helps prevent sticking. If you’re still having trouble, you can lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Yam Slice Thickness for Perfect Chips

Thin slices = crispy chips! Aim for around 1-2mm thick. If they’re too thick, they’ll be soft in the middle.

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ways to spice things up:

Spice Level Variations: Adding Chili Powder or Cayenne Pepper

My friend loves adding a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the oil for a little kick. It’s delicious!

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is naturally vegan! Just double-check that your oil is vegan-friendly.

Gluten-Free Confirmation

Good news! These chips are naturally gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Festival Adaptations: A Colorful Diwali Snack

These chips are a beautiful and festive snack for Diwali! Their vibrant purple colour adds a special touch to your celebrations.

Serving Suggestions

These chips are amazing on their own, but they’re also great with:

• A spicy dip like raita or chutney
• A side of your favourite Indian curry
• As a colourful addition to a snack platter

Storage Instructions

Honestly, these are best enjoyed fresh. But if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They might lose some of their crispiness, but they’ll still be tasty!

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

What is purple yam and where can I find it?

Purple yam, also known as ube, is a vibrant root vegetable popular in Filipino and other Asian cuisines. You can usually find it at Asian grocery stores or well-stocked supermarkets.

Can I bake these chips in the oven instead of using an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and bake the yam slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as air-fried, but still delicious.

How can I adjust the salt level to my preference?

Feel free to add more or less salt to taste. Start with a pinch and add more as needed.

What other spices complement the flavor of purple yam?

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger all pair beautifully with purple yam.

How do I know when the chips are perfectly cooked and crispy?

They should be golden brown and feel firm to the touch. If they’re still soft, cook them for a few more minutes.