If you have been hunting for a deliciously satisfying snack that balances lightness with irresistible crunch, this Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Taking fresh spinach leaves and transforming them into golden, crispy bites, this recipe delivers on both flavor and texture without any fuss. Whether you’re craving a guilt-free snack or an impressive appetizer to serve friends, these spinach chips are bursting with garlic and subtle savory notes from optional stock powder, all encased in a perfectly crisp batter. Trust me, once you try this Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe, it will become your go-to anytime snack obsession!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, everyday ingredients create magic in this Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe. Each one plays a crucial role: the fresh spinach provides a natural base with vibrant color, the flour and cornstarch form the light and crunchy coating, and the spices boost the flavor, making every bite amazing.
- 50 fresh spinach leaves: Use young, tender leaves for the best texture and easiest frying experience.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of the batter, giving the chips their perfect crispness.
- 2 tbsp cornstarch: Adds extra crunch and helps make the coating incredibly light.
- 1/2 tsp chicken or mushroom stock powder (optional): Enhances umami and deepens flavor with just a pinch.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the chips with savory warmth that’s just irresistible.
- 200 ml water (about 3/4 cup): This binds the dry ingredients to create a smooth, easy-to-dip batter.
- Salt to taste: Essential for balancing flavors and amplifying all the ingredients.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle, pleasant heat to lift the overall profile.
- Cooking oil for frying: Pick a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying results.
How to Make Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the batter
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, stock powder if you’re using it, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. Slowly add the water while stirring, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Your aim is a smooth, slightly thick batter that clings gently to each spinach leaf.
Step 2: Heat the oil
Pour enough cooking oil into a frying pan so that your spinach leaves can be fully submerged. Heat it over medium heat until it’s hot enough for frying—test by dropping a little batter in; it should immediately sizzle and float to the surface. This step is key to achieving that perfect golden crunch.
Step 3: Dip and fry
One leaf at a time, dip the spinach into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated but not overloaded. Carefully place each battered leaf into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes until the spinach chips transform into crispy, golden morsels.
Step 4: Drain the excess oil
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the spinach chips and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This step helps soak up any extra oil, keeping the chips light and not greasy.
Step 5: Repeat and enjoy
Continue frying in small batches until all spinach leaves are cooked and crispy. Serve immediately to enjoy their full crunch and flavor!
How to Serve Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe, sprinkle a pinch of finishing sea salt or a dash of smoked paprika. Fresh lemon zest or a drizzle of truffle oil can add unexpected bursts of brightness and intrigue, transforming these chips into an elegant appetizer.
Side Dishes
These crispy chips pair wonderfully with light dips such as garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or creamy hummus. They also make a fantastic crunchy alternative to croutons atop fresh salads or soups, adding texture without overpowering other flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your spinach chips in small, rustic bowls or on a wooden board layered with parchment paper for a casual vibe. For a party, stack them artistically on tiered trays alongside assorted dips, turning simple spinach leaves into a show-stopping snack everyone will talk about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place the cooled spinach chips in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture. Store them at room temperature and enjoy within a day for the best texture.
Freezing
While frying is best fresh, you can freeze leftover spinach chips in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from the freezer for a quick snack later, but expect some loss in crispness.
Reheating
To bring back crunch, reheat your chips in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other leafy greens instead of spinach for this recipe?
Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard can also be used, though cooking times may vary slightly due to thickness. Spinach remains popular for its tender leaves and mild flavor, but experimenting is always fun.
Is it possible to bake the spinach chips instead of frying?
Yes, baking can be a healthier alternative. Coat the spinach leaves in the batter, place them on a parchment-lined tray, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or until crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare the batter fresh before frying for optimal texture. If you do need to make it ahead, keep it refrigerated and give it a good stir before dipping the leaves.
What oil is best for frying spinach chips?
Choose neutral oils with high smoke points such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. These oils won’t overpower the flavor and allow a steady frying temperature for crisp results.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
The simplest test is dropping a small bit of batter into the oil. If it immediately bubbles and floats to the surface, your oil is ready. Maintaining medium heat ensures the chips cook evenly without burning.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe enough for anyone looking to turn ordinary spinach into a crispy, flavorful delight that feels indulgent without the guilt. It’s simple, quick, and guaranteed to impress both your taste buds and your guests. So go ahead, give it a try—you’ll wonder why you didn’t snack on spinach chips sooner!
Print
Crispy Spinach Chips Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crispy Spinach Chips are a delightful, crunchy snack made by coating fresh spinach leaves in a flavorful batter and frying them until golden. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or a savory treat, these chips combine the wholesome goodness of spinach with a crispy, savory batter that’s lightly seasoned for extra flavor.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 50 fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 tsp chicken or mushroom stock powder (optional, for flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 200 ml water (about 3/4 cup)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Cooking oil for frying (enough to submerge leaves)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, chicken or mushroom stock powder (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Gradually add the water while stirring to create a smooth, lump-free batter.
- Heat the oil: Pour enough cooking oil into a frying pan to submerge the spinach leaves. Heat the oil over medium heat until it’s hot; test by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil – it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately.
- Dip the spinach: Dip each fresh spinach leaf into the prepared batter, making sure it is evenly coated on all sides.
- Fry the spinach chips: Gently place the coated spinach leaf into the hot oil. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes until the chips turn crispy and golden brown.
- Drain excess oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried spinach chips from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Repeat frying: Continue the process in batches until all the spinach leaves have been dipped, fried, and drained.
- Serve: Serve the crispy spinach chips immediately on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious snack.
Notes
- For a vegetarian-friendly option, use mushroom stock powder instead of chicken stock powder.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Serve immediately for the best crunchy texture, as the chips can become soggy if left out too long.
- These chips pair well with garlic aioli, ranch dip, or spicy mayonnaise.
