How to Make Sweet Potato Chips in Nigeria

How to Make Sweet Potato Chips in Nigeria (Oven-Baked & Crispy Fried)

Sweet potato chips are a popular snack in many Nigerian homes. They are crunchy, tasty, and easy to prepare with simple kitchen ingredients.

Whether you want a healthier oven-baked version or the classic deep-fried chips sold by roadside vendors, this guide will show you how to make sweet potato chips in Nigeria step by step.

Sweet potatoes are affordable, filling, and packed with nutrients, making them a perfect option for homemade snacks, school lunchboxes, or evening cravings.

Introduction: Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes in Nigerian Cooking

Potatoes are widely consumed across the world and are valued for their ability to provide quick energy. In Nigeria, we commonly use root crops such as yam, cassava, cocoyam, and sweet potatoes as major sources of carbohydrates. Sweet potatoes stand out because of their natural sweetness, soft texture, and nutritional benefits.

Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. Unlike Irish potatoes, sweet potatoes have a lower glycemic index, making them a better option for people watching their blood sugar levels. They are also widely available in Nigerian markets all year round and are cheaper than many imported snacks.

Turning sweet potatoes into chips is one of the best ways to enjoy them. With the right slicing and cooking method, you can achieve crispy sweet potato chips at home without buying packaged ones.

Why Homemade Sweet Potato Chips Are Better

• Cheaper than store-bought chips

• No preservatives or artificial additives

• You control the oil and seasoning

• Can be baked or fried

• Suitable for both adults and children

Ingredients for Sweet Potato Chips (Nigerian Kitchen)

• 2 large sweet potatoes

• 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil

• Salt to taste

Optional Seasonings

• Ground pepper

• Paprika

• Garlic powder

• Onion powder

• Curry powder (lightly)

• Cinnamon (for sweet version)

How to Prepare Sweet Potato Chips (Important First Steps)

1. Wash sweet potatoes thoroughly to remove sand.

2. Peel or leave the skin on if well cleaned.

3. Slice very thinly using a knife or slicer.

4. Soak slices in cold water for 30 minutes.

5. Drain and dry completely with a clean cloth or paper towel.

6. Toss lightly with oil and seasoning.

👉 Proper drying is the secret to crispy chips.

How to Make Sweet Potato Chips in the Oven (Baked Method)

This method is healthier and uses less oil.

Oven Temperature

180°C

Steps

1. Preheat oven.

2. Line baking tray with parchment paper.

3. Arrange slices in one layer.

4. Bake for 15 minutes.

5. Turn slices and bake for another 10–15 minutes.

6. Remove once golden and crisp.

7. Allow to cool before serving.

How to Make Baked Sweet Potato Chips Extra Crispy

• Slice evenly and very thin

• Add ½ teaspoon cornstarch before oiling

• Do not overcrowd the tray

• Flip halfway through baking

• Use a wire rack if available

Total baking time: 25–30 minutes

How to Make Fried Sweet Potato Chips Crispy (Nigerian Style)

This is the most common method used by street vendors.

Steps

1. Heat vegetable oil on medium heat.

2. Fry in small batches.

3. Stir gently to prevent sticking.

4. Fry for 3–5 minutes until golden.

5. Remove and drain on paper towel.

6. Sprinkle salt immediately.

Double Fry Method (Very Crunchy)

• Fry once at lower heat

• Rest for 5 minutes

• Fry again briefly at higher heat

Common Mistakes That Prevent Crispiness

• Slicing too thick

• Skipping the soaking step

• Too much oil

• Frying on low heat

• Overcrowding the pan

Sweet Potato Chip Flavor Ideas Nigerians Love

• Peppered: ground pepper + paprika

• Garlic: garlic powder + black pepper

• Sweet: cinnamon + honey (after baking)

• BBQ: paprika + onion powder

Are Sweet Potato Chips Healthy?

Yes, especially when:

• Baked instead of fried

• Cooked with little oil

• Eaten in moderation

Sweet potato chips are richer in fiber and vitamins than regular potato chips.

How to Store Sweet Potato Chips

• Store in airtight container

• Consume within 2 days

• Reheat in oven to restore crunch

• Do not refrigerate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make sweet potato chips without an oven?

Yes. You can deep-fry them on the stovetop using vegetable oil.

Why are my sweet potato chips not crispy?

Common reasons include thick slices, excess moisture, low heat, or overcrowding.

Do I need to peel sweet potatoes?

Peeling is optional. Just wash thoroughly if keeping the skin.

Can I use air fryer?

Yes. Air fry at 180°C for 15–20 minutes, shaking halfway.

Are sweet potato chips good for weight loss?

Baked sweet potato chips can be part of a weight-loss diet when eaten in moderation.

Final Thoughts

Making sweet potato chips in Nigeria is simple, affordable, and rewarding. Whether baked for health or fried for crunch, homemade sweet potato chips give you better taste and quality than packaged snacks. With the right technique, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy chips every time.