Quality evaluation of deep fried chips produced from lotus rhizome

The main objective of the present study was to produce crispy deep fried chips from lotus rhizome with acceptable organoleptic qualities. Effects of three different frying temperatures (180, 190 and 200°C, for 15-20 sec) on the overall qualities (proximate composition, texture and sensory) of lotus rhizome chips were determined. Prior to frying, freshly procured rhizomes were sliced uniformly (thickness of ~2.5 mm, diameter ~ 5.2mm), blanched in hot water (85°C for 3.5 min) and dried in a hot air vacuum oven (60°C, 24 h). Results on textural studies showed force required to break the chips to be dependent on temperature. Sensory quality results revealed high acceptability for chips produced by frying at 200°C. This reported work being a preliminary study, further research works is warranted to standardize the protocols for industrial scale production of lotus rhizome chips, with improved taste and flavour, keeping in mind the safety and quality issues.