Save I was staring at a stack of leftover lumpia wrappers one Saturday afternoon, wondering what to do with them before they dried out completely. My cousin had just told me about turning them into chips, and I figured I had nothing to lose. The moment that garlic oil hit the wrappers and they crisped up in the air fryer, the kitchen smelled so good that my neighbor knocked on the door asking what I was cooking. I've been making these ever since, sometimes just for myself on lazy evenings when I want something crunchy without the guilt of deep frying.
I brought a bowl of these to a potluck once, thinking they would just sit there while people grabbed the usual chips and dip. Instead, they disappeared in minutes, and three people asked me for the recipe before I even sat down. One friend told me she made them the next day and her kids devoured them after school. It is funny how something so simple can become the thing everyone remembers.
Ingredients
- Lumpia Wrappers: These thin wrappers crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, turning golden and delicate without any sogginess, just make sure they are fresh and pliable before you start cutting.
- Neutral Oil: Canola or vegetable oil works best because it does not compete with the garlic, and it helps the wrappers crisp evenly without burning.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is everything here, the minced pieces turn sweet and nutty when you sauté them gently, and that flavor soaks right into the chips.
- Sea Salt: A good pinch of flaky sea salt brings out the garlic and adds just enough savory punch without making the chips taste flat.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth that balances the richness of the oil and garlic.
- Fresh Parsley or Chives: A light sprinkle at the end makes the chips look vibrant and adds a tiny hint of freshness that cuts through the oil.
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Turn your air fryer to 180°C and let it warm up for about three minutes. This step ensures the wrappers start crisping the moment they hit the basket.
- Slice the Wrappers:
- Stack your lumpia wrappers neatly and use a sharp knife or kitchen scissors to cut them into thin strips or small triangles, about three centimeters wide. Try to keep the pieces roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
- Make the Garlic Oil:
- Heat the oil in a small saucepan over low heat, then add the minced garlic and stir gently until it turns golden and smells amazing, about two minutes. Pull it off the heat and let it cool just a bit so it does not steam the wrappers when you toss them.
- Coat the Wrappers:
- Put the sliced wrappers in a large bowl, drizzle the warm garlic oil over them, then sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Toss everything gently with your hands or tongs until every piece is lightly coated.
- Arrange in the Basket:
- Lay the coated wrappers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping too much. If you have a lot, work in batches so they crisp up properly instead of steaming.
- Air Fry Until Golden:
- Fry the chips for five to seven minutes, shaking the basket gently halfway through so they brown evenly. Watch them closely in the last minute because they can go from golden to burnt quickly.
- Cool and Repeat:
- Use tongs to transfer the finished chips to a wire rack or plate to cool, then repeat the process with any remaining wrappers. They will get even crispier as they sit.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the cooled chips with fresh parsley or chives if you like, then serve them right away or tuck them into an airtight container for later.
Save There was an evening when I made a double batch of these and sat on the couch with a bowl, planning to watch one episode of a show. Before I knew it, the bowl was empty and I had watched three episodes without even noticing. My partner walked in and laughed at the guilty look on my face, then grabbed the recipe off the counter to make another batch himself. That is when I knew this snack was a keeper.
Flavor Variations You Can Try
If you want to switch things up, toss in a pinch of chili flakes with the garlic oil for a spicy kick, or add a dash of smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor. I have also sprinkled a little nutritional yeast on top right after frying for a cheesy, umami boost that makes them even more addictive. You can even try a squeeze of lime juice and some tajin seasoning if you are feeling adventurous.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
These chips are amazing on their own, but they also pair beautifully with sweet chili sauce, a tangy vinegar dip, or even a creamy garlic aioli. I have served them alongside a platter of fresh veggies and hummus at parties, and they always disappear first. They also make a great crunchy topping for salads or soups if you have leftovers, though that rarely happens in my house.
Storage and Freshness Tips
Once the chips are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature and they will stay crispy for up to three days. If they start to lose their crunch, you can pop them back in the air fryer for a minute or two to revive them. I have also frozen a batch before frying, and they worked perfectly straight from the freezer, just add an extra minute or two to the cook time.
- Make sure the chips are fully cooled before sealing the container or they will steam and get soft.
- Avoid stacking them too high in the container, or the ones on the bottom will get crushed.
- If you are making these ahead for a party, prep the garlic oil and slice the wrappers in advance, then toss and fry them right before serving.
Save These little garlic chips have become my go to whenever I need something quick, crunchy, and just a little bit special. I hope they bring you as much joy as they have brought to my kitchen and everyone who has tried them.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of oil is best for the garlic infusion?
Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work best to highlight the garlic flavor without overpowering it.
- → Can I use alternative wrappers for the chips?
Yes, wonton wrappers can be substituted if lumpia wrappers aren't available, yielding a similar crispy result.
- → How do I avoid sogginess when air-frying the chips?
Make sure to arrange the strips in a single layer without overcrowding and shake the basket halfway through cooking.
- → What are some good garnish options?
Fresh parsley or chives add a bright herbal note and enhance the visual appeal of the chips.
- → Can I add any spices to enhance flavor?
A pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika added to the garlic oil adds a smoky or spicy kick.