Copycat Trader Joe’s Patio Chips Recipe

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The sight of Trader Joe’s Patio Chips returning to the shelves feels like a mini celebration. Their bold, summery flavors—sea Salt and vinegar, delicious dill, homestyle ketchup, and Smokein’ Sweet BBQ—packed into each crispy bite make backyard barbecues, movie nights, and lazy afternoons even more special. But let’s be honest: Waiting for the chips to reappear each year can feel like going on a snack scavenger hunt. So why not take matters into your own hands?

How to make Trader Joe’s Patio Chips

Trader Joe’s Patio Potato Chips are a seasonal snack that combines four distinct flavors in one bag: Sea Salt and vinegar, delicious dill, homestyle ketchup, and Smokein’ Sweet BBQ. Each chip is individually seasoned, offering a variety of taste experiences in a single serving.

Ingredients

For the base chips:

• 4 large russet potatoes (washed and scrubbed)
• 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• Sea salt (to taste)

Sea Salt & Vinegar Seasoning:

• ¼ cup white vinegar powder
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar

Delicious Dill Seasoning:

• 1 tablespoon dried dill
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon dried lemon zest (optional)

Homestyle Ketchup Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons tomato powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Smokin’ Sweet BBQ Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes:

1. Slice the potatoes into thin, even slices using a mandoline slicer for consistency.
2. Place the slices in a bowl of cold water to remove excess starch. Let them soak for about 30 minutes.
3. Rinse the potato slices thoroughly and pat them dry using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

Heat the Oil:

1. Pour the vegetable oil into a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the Chips:

1. Carefully add a few potato slices to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
2. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chips. Place them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain any excess oil. Sprinkle with sea salt while hot.

Prepare the Seasonings:

1. Mix the ingredients for each seasoning blend in separate bowls.

Season the Chips:

1. Divide the homemade chips into four smaller batches.
2. Toss each batch in a large bowl with one of the prepared seasoning blends. Ensure the chips are evenly coated.

Tips for Success

• Consistency is Key: Using a mandoline slicer helps ensure that all your potato slices are the same thickness, which allows them to cook evenly.
• Control the Oil Temperature: Keep a kitchen thermometer handy to monitor the oil’s temperature. If it gets too hot, the chips may burn; if it’s not hot enough, the chips could turn out greasy.
• Season While Hot: Seasoning the chips immediately after frying helps the flavors adhere better to the hot surface.
• Storage: To maintain their crunch, store your homemade seasoned chips in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed fresh but can last for up to a week if stored properly.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—your very own homemade Trader Joe’s Patio Chips! Enjoy these deliciously flavored chips that capture the essence of summer, anytime you like.

More Trader Joe’s Recipes:

• Copycat Trader Joe’s Vanilla Bean Paste Recipe
• Copycat Trader Joe’s Pistachio Chocolate Recipe