Save to Pinterest I stumbled on this recipe during a late-night fridge raid when all I had were leftover lumpia wrappers and a head of garlic. The idea of frying them into chips felt risky, but the moment that first batch came out of the air fryer—golden, crackling, smelling like a garlic lovers dream—I knew Id accidentally created something I'd crave constantly. Now theyre my go-to whenever I need a snack that feels indulgent but comes together in minutes.
I brought these to a potluck once without much expectation, just a bowl of crispy strips with a side of sweet chili sauce. Within ten minutes the bowl was empty and three people asked for the recipe. One friend even admitted she ate them standing by the table, unable to walk away. Thats when I realized these werent just chips, they were conversation starters.
Ingredients
- Lumpia wrappers: These delicate sheets crisp up beautifully without any heavy batter, turning paper-thin and shattering with each bite.
- Neutral oil: Canola or vegetable oil lets the garlic shine without competing flavors, and it heats evenly for a perfect infusion.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable here, it blooms into something fragrant and almost sweet when gently sautéed in oil.
- Sea salt: A light sprinkle enhances every layer of flavor without overpowering the delicate wrappers.
- Black pepper: Just a whisper of heat that lingers after the crunch.
- Fresh parsley or chives: A bright, herby finish that makes the chips feel a little more special.
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer:
- Set it to 180°C and let it warm up for 3 minutes. This ensures even crisping from the first batch.
- Slice the wrappers:
- Stack them neatly and cut into strips or triangles about 3 cm wide. Kitchen scissors work just as well as a knife.
- Infuse the oil:
- Heat the oil gently in a small pan, add the garlic, and stir until golden and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Let it cool slightly so it doesnt steam the wrappers.
- Coat the wrappers:
- Toss the sliced wrappers in a bowl with the garlic oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to make sure every piece gets a little love.
- Arrange in the basket:
- Lay them in a single layer without overlapping. Crowding leads to soggy spots, and nobody wants that.
- Air-fry until golden:
- Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Theyll puff up and turn a deep amber color.
- Cool and repeat:
- Transfer to a wire rack to keep them crisp. Fry the remaining batches the same way.
- Garnish and serve:
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs if you like. Serve right away or seal them up for later.
Save to Pinterest Theres something quietly satisfying about making a snack this good from something so simple. I keep a stash of lumpia wrappers in the freezer now, just in case the craving hits or unexpected guests show up. Every time I make them, someone asks if theyre store-bought, and I get to say no, just garlic, oil, and a little bit of heat.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you nail the basic version, its hard not to experiment. A pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika in the oil adds warmth without overwhelming the garlic. I've also tried tossing them with a tiny drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of furikake after frying, which gives them an umami-packed twist. Some people like a hint of lime zest or even a dusting of nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe.
Serving Suggestions
These chips are incredible on their own, but they really come alive with the right dip. Sweet chili sauce is my favorite, the sweetness plays off the garlic in a way that feels almost addictive. A simple vinegar-based dip with a little soy sauce and sliced chilies works too, especially if you want something sharper. I've even crumbled them over a bowl of ramen or a crisp salad for texture.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you manage to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They lose a bit of crunch over time, but a quick 2-minute reheat in the air fryer brings them back to life. You can also prep the garlic oil ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to a week, then toss and fry the wrappers whenever the craving strikes.
- Slice the wrappers in advance and store them flat in a sealed bag.
- Double the batch and keep extras on hand for last-minute entertaining.
- Reheat in the air fryer, not the microwave, to preserve the crisp.
Save to Pinterest These chips have become one of those recipes I make without thinking, the kind that feels like a small victory every time. I hope they bring you the same crispy, garlicky joy they bring me.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of oil is best for infusing garlic flavor?
Neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil work best as they allow the garlic aroma to shine without overpowering the chips.
- → Can I use wonton wrappers instead of lumpia wrappers?
Yes, wonton wrappers can be substituted and will produce similarly crispy results when air-fried.
- → How do I achieve maximum crispiness in the chips?
Slice wrappers thinly and ensure they are evenly coated with garlic oil. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for uniform crisping.
- → Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer before cooking?
Preheating to 180°C (350°F) helps the chips cook evenly and reach optimal crispness quickly.
- → Can I add extra spices to the garlic oil?
Absolutely. Adding chili flakes or smoked paprika to the garlic oil can enhance flavor and add a hint of heat.