Save My roommate came home one afternoon with a bag of lumpia wrappers and no plan, just a hunch that they'd make killer chips. We were both hungry and impatient, so we chopped them up, tossed them with garlicky oil, and threw them into the air fryer. Twenty minutes later, we were fighting over the last handful of golden, shattering pieces. That spontaneous experiment became our go-to snack—something I now make whenever I need that perfect balance of crunchy and savory without the guilt.
I made these for a small dinner party once, and they disappeared so fast I didn't even get to plate them properly. A friend grabbed a handful straight from the cooling rack, bit into one, and just made this sound of pure satisfaction. That moment taught me something: the best dishes are the ones people reach for without thinking.
Ingredients
- Lumpia wrappers: These thin, delicate sheets are the star—buy them from the frozen section at any Asian market, and don't thaw them too early or they'll stick together.
- Neutral oil: Canola or vegetable oil lets the garlic shine without competing flavors.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infused gently into warm oil creates that golden, fragrant base that makes these chips irresistible.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning that lets the garlic take center stage without overwhelming your palate.
- Fresh parsley or chives: A optional garnish that adds color and a hint of freshness if you want to dress them up.
Instructions
- Heat your air fryer:
- Set it to 180°C (350°F) and let it preheat for 3 minutes so the heat is even and ready to crisp everything up quickly.
- Slice the wrappers:
- Stack them together and cut them into thin strips or triangles about 3 cm wide. A sharp knife makes this quick and clean.
- Infuse the oil:
- Heat oil over low heat, add minced garlic, and let it turn golden and fragrant for about 2 minutes. This gentle approach means the garlic flavors the oil without burning.
- Coat the chips:
- Toss your wrapper strips with the warm garlic oil, salt, and pepper until everything is evenly coated. This is where patience matters—gentle tossing keeps the wrappers intact.
- Air-fry:
- Lay the strips in a single layer in your basket, working in batches if needed. Fry for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until they're golden brown and shatter when you touch them.
- Cool and finish:
- Let them rest on a wire rack so they stay crispy. If using, sprinkle with parsley or chives while still warm so it sticks.
Save I gave a batch of these to my neighbor last month, and she texted me the next day asking if I'd teach her how to make them. We spent an afternoon in her kitchen together, and what started as a simple snack turned into one of those conversations that meanders across life, memories, and unexpected connections. That's when I realized these aren't just chips—they're permission to slow down and share something good with someone.
Storage and Make-Ahead Magic
Store these in an airtight container for up to three days, though they're best eaten fresh on day one. If they soften, give them 2 to 3 minutes in a 160°C oven to resurrect their crispness. I've learned it's better to make a smaller batch more often than to fight the battle of stale chips sitting around.
Flavor Variations to Explore
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. A pinch of chili flakes turns these into something spicy and exciting, while smoked paprika adds a subtle, complex depth. I once experimented with garlic powder mixed with a tiny bit of cayenne, and it was magic. Start with the basic version, then play around once you've got the technique down.
Serving and Pairing Ideas
These are perfect on their own as a snack, but they also shine as the unexpected crunchy element at a gathering. Serve them with sweet chili sauce for dipping, or a simple vinegar-based sauce if you want something tangy. I've even seen people crumble them over avocado toast for an unconventional crunch.
- Pair with sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or a simple soy-vinegar dip.
- Serve alongside soups or salads for a textural contrast that makes the whole meal better.
- Keep a batch handy for when you need something to do with your hands while talking or thinking.
Save These crispy garlic lumpia chips have become my go-to when I want something that tastes impressive but doesn't require any real fuss. Make a batch and watch how quickly they disappear—then make another, because everyone always wants more.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What wrappers are used for these chips?
Thin lumpia wrappers are sliced into strips or triangles to create a light and crispy texture upon frying.
- → Can I use a different cooking method?
Yes, air frying is recommended for crispiness, but baking in an oven can also work with close monitoring.
- → How is the garlic flavor infused?
Minced garlic is gently sautéed in neutral oil to release its aroma before coating the wrapper strips.
- → Are there seasoning options for extra flavor?
Adding chili flakes or smoked paprika to the oil can provide an extra kick and depth of flavor.
- → What dips complement these chips?
Sweet chili sauce, vinegar-based dips, or your favorite savory dips pair excellently with these crispy chips.
- → Can I substitute lumpia wrappers?
Wonton wrappers make a suitable alternative if lumpia wrappers are unavailable, offering a similar crisp texture.