Irresistibly Crispy Oven-Baked Malt Vinegar Potato Chips: Your Perfect Homemade Fish & Chips Side

There’s nothing quite like the classic combination of crispy fish and perfectly golden chips. While the traditional fish and chips experience often involves deep-fried potatoes, you don’t need a fryer to achieve that satisfying crunch and authentic flavor. My recipe for **Oven-Baked Homemade Malt Vinegar Potato Chips** delivers an incredibly delicious, healthier alternative that pairs beautifully with your favorite fish, chicken, or even a hearty sandwich. Forget greasy, store-bought bags – these homemade chips are made with simple pantry staples and burst with that distinctive tangy malt vinegar taste, making them an absolute game-changer for your next meal.

Why You Will Absolutely Love These Homemade Potato Chips

Ditching the store-bought varieties and making your own potato chips at home might seem like extra effort, but once you try these oven-baked delights, you’ll understand why it’s worth every minute. Here’s a detailed look at why this recipe will become a new favorite:

• Remarkably Simple and Requires Just a Few Pantry Staples: You don’t need exotic ingredients or specialized equipment to whip up a batch of these fantastic chips. Chances are, you already have potatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper in your kitchen. Add a bottle of malt vinegar, and you’re good to go! This simplicity makes it a perfect recipe for a spontaneous craving or a busy weeknight.
• Incredibly Inexpensive to Make: Compared to buying premium potato chips from the grocery store, making them at home is significantly more budget-friendly. A few potatoes and some basic seasonings go a long long way, allowing you to enjoy a generous serving of crispy, flavorful chips without breaking the bank. It’s a smart way to enjoy a gourmet-style side dish on a shoestring budget.
• A Healthier Alternative to Store-Bought Chips: One of the biggest advantages of oven-baking your potato chips is the dramatic reduction in fat and calories compared to deep-fried versions. You control the amount and type of oil used (we prefer heart-healthy olive oil), and you avoid all the artificial flavors, preservatives, and excessive sodium often found in commercially produced chips. This means you can indulge in that satisfying crunch with far less guilt!
• Simply DELICIOUS and Versatile: The flavor profile of these chips is truly exceptional. The natural sweetness of the potatoes, the savory notes of salt and pepper, and the unmistakable tangy kick of malt vinegar create an addictive combination that’s hard to beat. While they are the ultimate companion for fish (especially beer-battered fish) or crispy chicken strips, they also shine alongside burgers, sandwiches, or even as a standalone snack. Don’t forget to serve them with my 5-minute easy coleslaw recipe for a complete meal!
• Customizable to Your Taste: While the malt vinegar is a star here, the basic recipe is a fantastic canvas for other flavors. Feel free to experiment with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes to create your own signature chip flavor. The possibilities are endless!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, enjoying a family dinner, or simply treating yourself to a movie night, these homemade chips fit right in. They bring a touch of gourmet comfort food to any setting.

NOTE: The recipe below is perfectly portioned for two people, making it ideal for a cozy dinner. However, it’s super easy to double or even triple the ingredients to serve a larger family or a crowd. Just ensure you use multiple baking sheets to maintain a single layer for optimal crispiness.

Ingredients Needed: Simple and Wholesome

Crafting these delectable oven-baked chips requires only a handful of common ingredients. The beauty lies in the quality of these components and how they come together to create a truly satisfying snack or side dish.

• Potatoes: The foundation of any great chip!
  • I personally lean towards Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture and slightly buttery flavor, which crisps up beautifully in the oven while retaining a tender interior.
  • Alternatively, Russet potatoes (also known as baking potatoes) are an excellent choice. Their high starch content makes them ideal for achieving an extra crispy chip. Regardless of your choice, look for firm, unblemished potatoes.
  • For maximum flavor and nutrients, we recommend leaving the skin on, just be sure to give them a good scrub before slicing.
• Olive Oil: Essential for achieving that golden crispness.
  • Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its robust flavor and health benefits. It helps the potato slices brown evenly and contributes to the overall texture. You’ll use it to coat the baking sheet and to toss with the potato slices, ensuring every chip gets a light, even coating.
  • It’s a much healthier alternative to the fats used in deep-frying, allowing you to enjoy your chips guilt-free.
• Salt and Pepper: The fundamental seasonings.
  • A good quality sea salt (or Kosher salt) enhances the potato’s natural flavor and provides that essential salty chip experience.
  • Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle, aromatic warmth that complements the other flavors. Don’t underestimate the power of these basic seasonings in bringing the whole dish to life.
• Malt Vinegar: The star of the show for that classic British chip shop tang.
  • Malt vinegar delivers a unique, slightly sweet and sour flavor that truly elevates these potato chips. It’s what gives them that authentic “fish and chips” vibe.
  • Important Note: Malt vinegar is derived from barley malt and therefore contains gluten. If you or your guests require a gluten-free diet, you must omit this ingredient. As an alternative, you can offer apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table, allowing individuals to add their preferred tang. For those who can enjoy it, we recommend drizzling a little on the chips after baking, and then placing the bottle on the table so everyone can add more to their liking.
• Parsley (Optional): For a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
  • A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a lovely pop of color but also a hint of herbaceous freshness that brightens the dish. It’s entirely optional but highly recommended for that extra touch of gourmet presentation.
  • Other fresh herbs like rosemary or chives could also be used for different flavor profiles.

How to Make These Crispy Oven-Baked Potato Chips: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making homemade oven-baked potato chips is simpler than you might think, and the process is incredibly rewarding. Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful chips every time.

1. Prepare Your Potatoes: Start by washing your chosen Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes thoroughly. We love leaving the skin on for added texture, flavor, and nutrients, so a good scrub is key. Once clean, slice the potatoes approximately 1/4 inch thick. This is a crucial step – resist the urge to cut them too thin, as thinner slices will cook too quickly and burn before developing enough flavor. A uniform 1/4 inch thickness ensures even cooking and optimal crispness. For best results and consistent slices, a mandoline slicer can be very helpful, but a sharp chef’s knife works perfectly with a steady hand.
2. Soak for Crispiness: Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 5-10 minutes. This step is vital as it helps to remove excess starch from the surface of the potatoes. Removing starch is the secret to achieving that coveted extra crisp texture, preventing the chips from becoming gummy or soft.
3. Thoroughly Dry the Potatoes: After soaking, drain the potatoes and lay them out on a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels. Pat them as dry as possible. Any residual moisture will steam the chips in the oven instead of crisping them, so take your time with this step to ensure they are completely dry.
4. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to a hot 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220°C). A high temperature is essential for getting the chips crispy quickly without drying them out completely.
5. Prepare the Baking Sheet: While the oven preheats, coat a large baking sheet generously with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Ensure the entire surface is covered.
6. Heat the Baking Sheet: Place the oiled baking sheet into the preheated oven for 5 minutes. Getting the baking sheet hot before adding the potatoes helps to create an immediate sizzle, promoting a super crispy bottom crust and preventing the chips from sticking. This is another secret to superior crispness!
7. Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the dried potato slices with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, along with the sea salt and black pepper. Make sure every slice is lightly and evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
8. Arrange on the Hot Sheet: Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Arrange the seasoned potato slices on the hot baking sheet in a single layer. It’s incredibly important not to overcrowd the pan. If the slices are overlapping or too close together, they will steam instead of crisping. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure ample space between each chip.
9. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking sheet (or sheets) in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. At this point, the chips should be slightly browned and starting to crisp around the edges. Carefully flip each potato slice using tongs or a spatula. Return them to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until they are deeply golden brown and deliciously crispy. Keep a close eye on them during the final minutes, as oven temperatures can vary, and they can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly.
10. Garnish and Serve Hot: Once baked to your desired crispness, immediately remove the chips from the oven. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley (if using). Then, lightly sprinkle with malt vinegar. A useful tip here is to add a small amount first, and then set the bottle of malt vinegar out on the table so each person can add more to their individual preference. These chips are best served immediately, fresh and hot from the oven, to enjoy their optimal crispness and flavor.

Expert Tips for Perfect Homemade Oven Chips

• Consistency is Key: Using a mandoline slicer ensures uniform potato slices, which is the easiest way to guarantee even cooking and consistent crispiness across all your chips. If slicing by hand, try your best to keep them all around 1/4 inch thick.
• Don’t Skip the Soak: This simple step makes a huge difference in the final texture. Starchy potatoes tend to be gummy or soft; soaking helps achieve that dry, crispy exterior.
• Dry, Dry, Dry: As mentioned, moisture is the enemy of crispiness. Use plenty of paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to ensure your potato slices are bone dry before tossing with oil.
• Hot Pan, Hot Oven: Preheating the baking sheet is a game-changer. It gives the chips a head start on crisping the moment they hit the surface, preventing them from sticking and creating a better crust.
• Single Layer Rule: This cannot be stressed enough. If your potatoes are piled up, they will steam rather than bake, resulting in soggy chips. Use multiple baking sheets if necessary.
• Watch Closely: Baking times are approximate. Ovens vary, and chips can quickly go from perfect to overdone. Keep an eye on them, especially during the last 10-15 minutes, and remove them when they reach your desired level of golden crispness.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper. Potatoes need a good amount of seasoning to truly shine.
• Serve Immediately: Like all good chips, these are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they are at their crispiest. While they can be stored, they lose some of their crunch over time.

Looking for More Delicious Potato Recipes?

Potatoes are incredibly versatile and a staple in countless cuisines. If you’ve loved these oven-baked chips, you’ll surely enjoy exploring other ways to prepare this humble yet satisfying vegetable. Here are some more fantastic potato recipes from my kitchen to inspire your next meal:

• Zoes Kitchen Potato Salad (Copycat Recipe): Recreate the fresh, vibrant flavors of this popular potato salad at home. Whether you prefer it grilled or classic, this copycat recipe is a crowd-pleaser and a perfect side for BBQs and picnics.
• Skillet Roasted Baby Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, these baby potatoes are roasted to perfection in a skillet. They make a wonderful, rustic side dish that comes together quickly on the stovetop.
• Creamy Dairy-Free Mashed Potatoes: For those seeking a rich and comforting mashed potato experience without dairy, this recipe delivers! It’s incredibly creamy and flavorful, proving that dairy-free doesn’t mean flavor-free.
• Crispy Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes: Imagine tender potatoes tossed with fragrant garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, then roasted until golden and crispy. These are perfect with any main course.
• Spicy Potato Wedges with Aioli: Thick-cut potato wedges seasoned with a kick of spice, oven-baked until tender inside and crunchy outside, served with a creamy homemade aioli. A fantastic appetizer or snack!
• Sweet Potato Fries with Chipotle Mayo: A delicious twist on traditional fries, these sweet potato versions offer a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, especially good with a smoky chipotle mayonnaise.

There’s a potato dish for every palate and every occasion! Dive into these recipes and discover new ways to enjoy this beloved ingredient.

If you tried these Homemade Malt Vinegar Potato Chips or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below! Your feedback helps others discover and enjoy these recipes too!

Homemade Malt Vinegar Potato Chips

Kelly Kirkendoll

Discover the ultimate side dish for your fish and chips – or any meal! These oven-baked homemade malt vinegar potato chips are incredibly crispy, tangy, and healthier than their deep-fried counterparts. Made with just a few simple pantry ingredients, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare and absolutely delicious. Get ready to enjoy the authentic British chippy flavor right from your own kitchen!

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine American, British

Servings 2 people

Calories 224 kcal

Equipment

• ▢
  1-2 large sheet pans (depending on batch size)
• ▢
  Sharp knife or mandoline slicer
• ▢
  Large mixing bowl
• ▢
  Paper towels or clean kitchen towel
• ▢
  Tongs or spatula

Ingredients

  

• ▢ 2-3 medium Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes
• ▢ 1 1/2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil (1 Tbsp for baking sheet; 1/2 Tbsp for coating potatoes)
• ▢ 1/2 tsp sea salt
• ▢ 1/8 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 1/4 tsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
• ▢ Malt vinegar (for drizzling, optional and contains gluten)

Instructions

 

• Wash the potatoes thoroughly, leaving the skin on for extra flavor and texture. Slice the potatoes 1/4 inch thick. Tip: For uniform crispiness, avoid cutting them too thin, as they may burn easily and lack flavor. A mandoline can help with even slices.
• Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl and soak them in cold water for 5-10 minutes. This step helps remove excess starch, which is key for extra crispy chips. Drain thoroughly and pat the slices completely dry with paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.
• Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220°C).
• Coat a large baking sheet with 1 Tbsp of extra virgin olive oil, ensuring the surface is well covered.
• Place the oiled baking sheet in the preheated oven for 5 minutes to get it hot. This aids in achieving a crispy bottom crust.
• In a large bowl, toss the dried potato slices with the remaining 1/2 Tbsp of olive oil, sea salt, and black pepper until every slice is evenly coated.
• Carefully remove the hot baking sheet from the oven. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the hot sheet, ensuring they do not overlap. Use a second baking sheet if necessary to prevent overcrowding.
• Place the baking sheet(s) in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the edges are slightly browned. Flip each potato slice, then bake for another 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. (Monitor closely during the final minutes, as baking times can vary between ovens.)
• Once done, remove from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley (if using) and sprinkle with malt vinegar to taste. Serve fresh and hot for the best flavor and crispness.

Notes

Gluten-Free Option: Please note that traditional malt vinegar contains gluten. If you or someone you’re serving requires a gluten-free diet, simply omit the malt vinegar from this recipe. You can offer a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of apple cider vinegar at the table for a tangy alternative.

Batch Size: This recipe is designed for 2 servings. For larger groups, easily double or triple the ingredients. Remember to use additional baking sheets to ensure potatoes are arranged in a single layer for optimal crisping.

Nutrition

Calories: 224kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gSodium: 592mgPotassium: 718mgFiber: 4gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 34mgCalcium: 21mgIron: 1mg

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!