Discover the Health Benefits and Uses of Artisan Kettle Chips

The Crunch on Artisan Kettle Chips: A Healthier Chip Option

When you reach for a bag of chips to satisfy a craving for something salty and crunchy, kettle chips are a smart choice. These thinly sliced potatoes gently fried in small batches have a deliciously crispy texture.

Mass-produced fried chips are usually unhealthy due to high fat and sodium content. But artisan kettle chips offer full potato flavor in a lighter, more nutritious format. Keep reading to learn all about the health benefits and uses of artisan kettle chips.

What Are Artisan Kettle Chips?

Kettle chips get their name from the kettles used to fry the fresh potato slices. Artisan kettle chips differentiate themselves by using high-quality ingredients and cooking them in small batches.

To make artisan kettle chips:

• Potatoes are sliced thinly and evenly
• Slices soak in water to remove starch
• Potatoes are fried in a kettle of hot oil
• Chips are constantly stirred and monitored
• Excess oil drips off while chips cool

This process creates an extra crispy chip with a hearty potato crunch. The hands-on attention ensures every batch turns out perfectly toasted.

Benefits of Artisan Kettle Chips

When made well, kettle chips have significant advantages over other chips in terms of both nutrition and taste:

• Higher in nutrients - Less processed than other chips, kettle chips retain more vitamins and minerals from the potato.
• Less sodium - Small batch cooking requires less added sodium for flavor.
• Less fat - Excess oil drips off during cooking. Thin slices absorb less oil overall.
• No trans fats - Kettle frying avoids the hydrogenated oils linked to trans fats.
• Full potato flavor - Fresh slices and high heat bring out the natural potato taste.
• More filling - The satisfying crunch and bold flavor keeps hunger at bay longer.

Of course, nutrition can vary greatly between brands. To reap the most benefits, look for kettle chips made from quality ingredients using responsible practices.

Choosing the Healthiest Kettle Chips

Not all kettle chips are created equal. Here are some tips for picking out the healthiest bags:

• Check the ingredients - Simple is best. Potatoes, oil, and salt should be it.
• Avoid additives - Say no to artificial flavors, colors, MSG, and other additives.
• Select healthier oils - Olive, avocado, coconut, and sunflower oil make better frying oils than soybean or canola.
• Go easy on seasonings - Flavors like BBQ and salt & vinegar quickly up the sodium.
• Seek low sodium options - No more than 140mg sodium per serving is ideal.
• Choose organic brands - Organic farming practices yield more nutritious potatoes.

Judiciously choosing the healthiest options makes kettle chips a smart snack. Just watch your portions, as even healthy chips are high in fat and calories.

The Best Flavors of Artisan Kettle Chips

Artisan kettle chip brands offer an array of tempting flavors derived from high quality natural ingredients. Some tasty and nutritious options include:

• Sea Salt - Light seasoning highlights the natural potato crunch.
• Jalapeo - Tangy heat from real jalapeos flavors each crisp.
• Rosemary and Olive Oil - Herby aroma and grassy olive oil.
• Vinegar and Sea Salt - Zing of vinegar cuts the salty edge.
• Barbecue - Smoky sweet and savory paprika adds character.
• Salt and Pepper - Classic spice blend brings out potato essence.

For the boldest potato taste, simple sea salt or salt and pepper deliver. Watch sodium content in flavored varieties.

How to Prepare Artisan Kettle Chips at Home

While store-bought chips are convenient, making them at home allows you to control ingredients. Try this easy artisan kettle chip recipe:

• Slice russet potatoes very thinly using a mandoline.
• Soak slices in cold water for 15 minutes then pat extremely dry.
• Heat 1-2 inches of olive oil to 350F in a heavy pan.
• Fry slices in small batches for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
• Transfer chips to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
• Immediately sprinkle with desired seasonings.

Be sure to monitor oil temperature closely. Letting it get too hot will make chips greasy. Adjust cook time as needed for your desired level of crunch.

Serving Ideas and Pairings for Artisan Kettle Chips

Beyond just snacking, artisan kettle chips make a crunchy garnish or topping for many dishes. Get creative with these ideas:

• Garnish for soups - Sprinkle sea salt chips over potato soup for contrast.
• Salad topper - Toast pita or tortilla chips for extra salad crunch.
• Potato chip nachos - Layer chips with beans, salsa, cheese for quick nachos.
• Fish or chicken coating - Crush chips and coat protein before baking.
• Potato chip granola - Toss crushed chips with nuts, oats, and honey for crunch.
• Ice cream topping - Candied jalapeo or rosemary chips add appeal to creamy desserts.

When snacking on chips alone, boost nutrition by pairing with dips and snacks like guacamole, hummus, or fresh vegetables.

Storing Artisan Kettle Chips

To retain freshness and crunch, follow these tips for storing kettle chips:

• Keep unopened bags cool and dry.
• After opening, reseal tightly or transfer to an airtight container.
• Avoid humidity, which makes chips soggy.
• Refrigeration extends shelf life once opened.
• Eat within a few days for ultimate crispness.
• Freeze homemade chips in a single layer then transfer to bags.

Discard any chips that appear stale, soft, or soggy. Proper storage preserves the satisfying crunch that makes kettle chips irresistible.

Are Kettle Chips Healthy?

Kettle chips made the artisan way have definite advantages over traditional fried chips in terms of health. But at the end of the day, chips are still chips.

Compared to potato chips, kettle chips tend to be:

• Lower in fat and calories - Thinner cuts absorb less oil.
• Higher in nutrients - Less processing retains more nutrients.
• Lower glycemic index - Healthier oils have less impact on blood sugar.
• Free of trans fats - No hydrogenated oils used in frying.
• Lower sodium - Less added salt used in kettle cooking.

However, chips are still high in fat, salt, and calories compared to fresh, wholesome foods. Enjoy kettle chips in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet.

The Crunchy Verdict

When a salty, crispy craving strikes, reaching for a bag of artisan kettle chips is one of the healthiest options in the chip aisle. Their crunch and bold potato flavor satisfy junk food cravings with less guilt.

Made in small batches from quality ingredients, kettle chips retain more nutrients than their mass-produced counterparts. Plus, their satisfying flavor and texture mean you can get away with eating less. Just be mindful of portion sizes, as kettle chips are still a high fat, high calorie food.

Seasoned lightly with sea salt or spices, kettle chips please snackers craving something savory and crisp. Make your own at home for ultimate control over ingredients. However you enjoy them, artisan kettle chips give you permission to indulge in healthier potato chip perfection.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.