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This crispy keto-friendly zucchini chip recipe has become my go-to snack when I'm craving something crunchy without the carbs. The air fryer creates that perfect crispiness while keeping the zucchini tender inside, all with minimal oil.
I discovered this recipe during my keto journey when potato chips were calling my name. These zucchini chips satisfied that craving so completely that now my family requests them even when they're not watching carbs.
Ingredients
- Fresh zucchini: Sliced into thin rounds for the perfect crispy base
- Salt: Helps draw out moisture ensuring crispy not soggy chips
- Pork rind crumbs: Create an incredibly crispy coating without carbs
- Grated parmesan: Adds savory depth and helps with browning
- Black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika: Create a seasoning blend that complements the mild zucchini
- Eggs: Act as the perfect binder for the coating to stick properly
- Water: Thins the egg mixture slightly for easier coating
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 400°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the zucchini. This ensures immediate cooking when the zucchini goes in.
- Prep the Zucchini:
- Slice zucchini into uniform rounds about 1/4 inch thick. Sprinkle with salt and let sit on paper towels for 15 minutes. This crucial step draws out excess moisture. Afterward pat dry thoroughly with paper towels pressing gently.
- Make the Coating:
- In a bowl combine pork rind crumbs, parmesan cheese, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings. The parmesan adds flavor while helping the coating brown beautifully.
- Prepare Egg Wash:
- Whisk eggs with water in a separate bowl until fully combined. The water thins the mixture slightly making it easier to coat the zucchini evenly without clumping.
- Coat the Zucchini:
- Dip each zucchini slice into the egg mixture allowing excess to drip off. Then thoroughly coat both sides in the pork rind mixture pressing gently to adhere. Place coated slices on a clean paper towel.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Arrange zucchini in a single layer in your air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook at 400°F for 5 minutes, then flip each piece carefully using tongs. Continue cooking for 3 more minutes until golden brown and crispy.
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The pork rind coating is what makes these chips truly special. I discovered this trick when experimenting with keto breading alternatives and was amazed at how similar the texture is to traditional breaded zucchini. My husband who typically dislikes vegetables actually finished the entire batch the first time I made them.
Keeping Them Crispy
The biggest challenge with zucchini chips is maintaining crispiness. Zucchini naturally contains a lot of water which can make your chips soggy. The salting step is absolutely critical as it draws out moisture before cooking. For extra insurance pat the zucchini dry multiple times with paper towels. If you skip this step you'll end up with soggy chips regardless of how long you cook them.
Make Ahead Options
While these zucchini chips are best eaten immediately after cooking you can prepare components ahead of time. Slice and salt the zucchini up to 4 hours before cooking keeping them in the refrigerator after patting dry. You can also mix the pork rind coating mixture a day in advance. Just store in an airtight container. The actual cooking should happen right before serving for optimal crispiness.
Dipping Sauce Suggestions
These crispy zucchini chips are delicious on their own but a keto friendly dipping sauce takes them to another level. Try mixing sour cream with a little hot sauce and lime for a tangy option. Ranch dressing works beautifully or make a quick aioli with mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice. For something different a dollop of guacamole provides a creamy contrast to the crunchy chips.
Flavor Variations
While the recipe provides a classic savory flavor profile you can customize the seasoning blend to your preference. For Italian flair add dried oregano, basil, and extra parmesan. Spice lovers can incorporate cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat. Taco seasoning creates a Mexican inspired version or try everything bagel seasoning for a unique flavor twist. Just add these additional seasonings to the pork rind mixture before coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use almond flour instead of pork rind crumbs?
Yes, almond or coconut flour can be substituted for pork rind crumbs to suit your preference or dietary needs.
- → How do I keep zucchini chips crispy?
Serve them immediately after air frying. If left sitting, the zucchini's moisture may affect their crispiness.
- → What temperature should I use for air frying?
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the zucchini chips for 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 3 minutes.
- → Can I pan fry the zucchini chips?
Yes, you can pan fry them. Use a similar coating method and fry in a pan with hot oil until golden and crispy on both sides.
- → What can I pair with zucchini chips?
Pair the zucchini chips with a dipping sauce like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for a delicious complement.