One of the guilty pleasures that I always have during this holiday season is eating too much cookies, chocolates and sweets. That is what the holidays is all about, right? To balance this off, my family has been having lots of these kale chips for snacks. My son who lives in Calgary introduced us to these healthy snacks one time when he came for a visit. It is super easy and simple to make. The hard part is washing and drying it thoroughly, which is an important step in order to have crunchy kale chips. After drying the kale leaves in the salad spinner, I would put the kale leaves on a kitchen towel on the table for couple more hours to let it dry completely. Baking time may vary, depending on the oven or on how thick or how dry your kale leaves are. So keep an eye on the kale while baking so as not to burn it; over baking it will result to bitter kale chips. Tossing the kale chips simply with salt is already good but my son likes it with chipotle chili pepper. Simply delicious!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Kale Chips
To achieve the perfect kale chips, start by selecting the right type of kale. Lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale, is a great choice because it holds up well during baking. When washing the kale, make sure to remove the tough stems, as they can become chewy and unpleasant. After washing, pat the leaves dry thoroughly with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. If you have time, letting them air dry for a couple of hours can help. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 300 degrees Fahrenheit, to ensure even cooking. Spread the kale leaves out in a single layer on a baking sheet, avoiding overcrowding. This allows hot air to circulate and helps them crisp up nicely. Halfway through baking, give the leaves a gentle toss to promote equal crispiness. Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes, as they can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Kale chips are incredibly versatile, making them a fantastic snack for any occasion. Serve them as a crunchy accompaniment to your favorite dips, such as hummus or guacamole. They can also be crumbled over salads for an extra layer of texture and flavor. If you want to switch things up, try seasoning your kale chips with different spices. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy, while garlic powder gives them a savory kick. For a sweet twist, sprinkle a little cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup before baking. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with adding different oils, like sesame oil or avocado oil, to give the chips unique flavors. These chips can also be enjoyed as a topping for soups, enhancing both the taste and presentation. With so many options, kale chips can easily fit into your snacking routine or be served at gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of kale?
While Lacinato kale is preferred for its texture, you can use curly kale or any other variety. Just keep in mind that different types may bake differently, so watch them closely.
What other seasonings can I use for kale chips?
You can get creative with seasonings like garlic powder, nutritional yeast, or even a sprinkle of cheese. Experiment with different spices to find your favorite flavor combo.
How should I store leftover kale chips?
Store any leftover kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh, but if stored properly, they should stay crunchy for a few days.
Can I make these kale chips ahead of time?
You can prepare the kale and season it in advance, but it’s best to bake them right before serving for that perfect crunch. If you do bake them ahead, try to reheat them in the oven to restore some of that crispiness.
What common mistakes should I avoid when making kale chips?
One common mistake is not drying the kale thoroughly after washing, which can lead to soggy chips. Also, be careful not to overcrowd the baking sheet, as this can prevent even cooking.
Baked Kale Chips
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of your favorite seasoning like paprika, Cajun or chipotle chili pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° F.
- Using a knife or kitchen shears, remove kale leaves from the thick stems and tear into bite size pieces. Wash and thoroughly dry kale with a salad spinner. Transfer into a big bowl and toss with olive oil.
- Evenly scatter kale on parchment paper-lined baking sheet and bake until the edges are brown but not burn, 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a big bowl and toss simply with salt and if you like, a pinch of your favorite seasoning.
Nutrition
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