Crispy Kale Chips The OvenBaked Snack Youll Crave
Crispy Kale Chips The Ovenbaked Snack Youll Crav
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 90 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Recipe Introduction
Craving a Guilt Free Crunch?
Fancy a healthy snack that's actually addictive? Ever wondered what the fuss is all about with kale chips ? Well, let me tell you, once you try these, you'll be hooked!
Oven Baked Goodness, Simplified
Born from the desire for a lighter alternative to crisps, these oven baked delights are ridiculously easy to make . We are diving into a quick snack you can feel good about.
Ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for four hungry snackers. They're a fantastic side dish , too.
Good for You, Good for Your Taste Buds
These vegan chips are not just a treat but also a powerhouse of nutrients. Packed with fiber and vitamins, they're a low-calorie way to satisfy your cravings.
Serve them at your next picnic or even a casual night in. What makes this recipe special is how easily you can transform a humble leafy green into something truly amazing.
Alright, let's get into what you'll need to make the best crispy kale chips recipe this side of the pond!
The Star of the Show: Kale!
You know, Kale gets a bad rap sometimes.
For this recipe, you'll need about 200g of Kale . Feel free to explore Kale recipes . Curly or Tuscan kale are amazing choices.
Ensure to have olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favourite flavour enhancers like garlic powder and smoked paprika on hand.
Ingredients & Equipment for Perfect Kale Chips
Right then, fancy making some kale chips ? These oven baked wonders are blinking brilliant. A totally healthy snack that even I can't mess up. Honestly, if I can do it, anyone can.
Main Ingredients
- 1 large bunch of kale (about 200g / 7oz ). Curly or Tuscan ( lacinato ) works best.
- 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil ( 15-30ml / 0.5-1 fl oz ).
- ½ teaspoon of sea salt ( 2.5ml ).
- ¼ teaspoon of black pepper ( 1.25ml ).
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder ( 1.25ml ), ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika ( 1.25ml ), pinch of red pepper flakes.
Quality is key with your kale . Look for leaves that are vibrant green and not wilted. Wilted kale equals sad kale chips .
We want crispy kale chips , not soggy nightmares.
Seasoning Notes
Right, let's talk flavour. Salt and pepper are non-negotiable. Garlic powder adds a nice warmth. Smoked paprika? Oh my gosh, it's a game changer.
For a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes does the trick. Feeling adventurous? Try a bit of nutritional yeast for a vegan cheesy taste.
Get creative!.
Don't have smoked paprika? Regular paprika will do in a pinch. It won't have that smoky depth, but it's still tasty.
Experiment and find your favorite combo. The right seasoning will elevate your kale chip seasoning and make it the ideal healthy snack .
Equipment Needed
- A large baking sheet. Or two if you're doing a big batch.
- A large bowl. For tossing and mixing.
- A sharp knife or kitchen shears. For chopping the kale .
- Measuring spoons. For the seasonings.
Don't have a fancy baking sheet? No worries, any oven safe tray will work. Just make sure it's big enough to spread the kale out in a single layer.
Remember, overcrowding equals steam equals soggy kale chips . And nobody wants soggy kale chips , right? It is easy to make .
Plus, it makes for a quick snack , a nice side dish to your plate, and is a vegetarian friendly.
These vegetable chips are a total win!
Crispy Kale Chips : The Oven Baked Snack You'll Crave
Fancy a guilt free snack that's actually good for you? Honestly, these kale chips are a game changer. I used to think kale was just something posh restaurants put on plates for decoration, but Oh my gosh! these oven baked beauties are totally addictive.
Plus, this healthy snack is vegan and gluten free , too! What’s not to love? Even better, you can whip them up in minutes! This easy to make recipe transforms boring kale into a bowl of crispy goodness.
Prep Like a Pro: The Secret to Crispy Kale Chips
- Essential Mise en Place : First, grab a bunch of kale . Next, give it a good wash and dry it. Completely dry, mind you! That's the key to crispiness. Finally, rip those leaves into bite sized pieces and ditch the tough stems.
- Time Saving Tip: Use a salad spinner to dry the kale . It's a total lifesaver!
- Safety Reminder: Watch your fingers when chopping! We don't want any accidents.
Step-by-Step to Kale Chip Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 300° F ( 150° C) .
- Toss the kale with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil , ½ teaspoon of sea salt , and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper . Give it a good massage to make sure every leaf is coated.
- Spread the kale in a single layer on a baking sheet. No overcrowding!
- Bake for 15- 20 minutes , or until crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. Visual cue? Aim for crispy but not too brown.
- Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet.
Pro Tips for the Best Kale Chips Ever
- Don't Overcrowd: Overcrowding the pan will steam your kale , resulting in soggy chips. Nobody wants that!
- Low and Slow: Baking at a lower temperature helps the kale crisp up properly without burning. Trust me on this one.
- Common Mistake to Avoid: Soggy kale is the enemy! Make sure the kale is bone dry before tossing it with oil. My first few attempts resulted in a pile of sad kale .
- Make Ahead Option: You can wash and chop the kale ahead of time. Just store it in a bag in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
These oven baked kale chips are a fantastic way to enjoy a quick snack or add some crunch to a side dish .
They're not just a vegetarian option; they're a seriously tasty treat that even meat eaters will enjoy. So, ditch the potato chips and give these homemade vegetable chips a go! You won't regret it.
Honestly, they're so good, you might just find yourself craving them. Plus, it's a brilliant way to sneak in some extra greens winning.
This low-calorie option lets you enjoy a crispy kale chips recipe without the guilt.
Recipe Notes for Cracking Kale Chips
Alright, so you're about to embark on your kale chip adventure. Brilliant! Let's chat about a few bits and bobs to make sure your kale chips are absolutely banging.
We’re talking next level crispy , not sad, wilted leaves, yeah?
Serving Suggestions: Get Creative With Your Kale Chips
Okay, so you've got a batch of golden, oven baked kale chips . Don’t just shove 'em in your gob (though, honestly, I wouldn't blame you!). Think presentation!
- Plating and Presentation Ideas: Chuck them in a fancy bowl, maybe with a sprig of parsley. Or, get this, use them as a topping for a creamy tomato soup. Swanky, right?
- Complementary Sides or Beverages: I reckon they'd be amazing with a dollop of hummus or even some smashed avocado. And a nice cold glass of lemonade? Sorted!
Storage Tips: Keeping the Crunch Alive
Right, so you've made a massive batch of homemade vegetable chips , and somehow, there are leftovers (unlikely, I know). Here's how to keep them perky:
- Refrigeration Guidelines: Honestly, they're best eaten fresh, but if you must, pop them in an airtight container.
- Freezing Options: Not recommended, to be honest. They'll go soggy. Nobody wants soggy kale chips .
- Reheating Instructions: If they’ve lost their snap, a quick blast in a low oven (about 250° F or 120° C ) for a few minutes should do the trick. Watch them like a hawk, though!
Variations: Spice It Up!
Fancy a change? Kale chips are ridiculously versatile.
- Dietary Adaptations: These are already naturally vegan and gluten free ! Winner winner, healthy snack dinner!
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: Chuck on some dried herbs like rosemary or thyme in autumn. A bit of lemon zest in summer? Oh my gosh, yes!
Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food
Let's be real, these low-calorie kale chips are good for you!
- Simplified Nutrition Information: We are talking fibre, vitamins, and all that jazz. Roughly 80-100 calories per serving . Not bad at all.
- Key Health Benefits: They're packed with vitamin K and antioxidants. Basically, they're a superhero in disguise! These vegetable chips are not just tasty; they're doing you a solid.
So, there you have it! You are now armed with all the knowledge you need to make utterly brilliant kale chips .
Get in the kitchen, give it a go, and remember, even if they're not perfect the first time, they'll still taste great.
Now go forth and create some crispy magic with these easy to make chips!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my kale chips soggy instead of crispy? That's a right bother!
Soggy kale chips are usually down to moisture. Make sure your kale is bone dry after washing; a salad spinner is your best mate here! Also, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If the kale leaves are too close together, they'll steam instead of crisping up. Use two baking sheets if you need to.
Honestly, the key is dry, dry, dry!
How do I store leftover kale chips to keep them crispy? No one wants a wilted chip!
Kale chips are best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, even with the best intentions, they tend to lose their crispness after a day or so.
You can try reheating them in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes to try and revive their crunch. But let's be honest, they probably won't last long enough to need storing!
Can I use different types of kale to make kale chips?
Absolutely! Curly kale is the most common choice and works brilliantly, giving you those classic, ruffled chips. Tuscan kale (also known as lacinato or dinosaur kale) is another great option; it has a milder flavor and a flatter leaf, resulting in slightly different, but equally delicious, kale chips.
Experiment and find your favourite!
What are some creative seasonings I can add to my kale chips besides salt and pepper? Fancy a bit of a change, I do!
Get adventurous! Garlic powder and smoked paprika are always a winner for adding depth of flavour. Nutritional yeast gives a cheesy, vegan friendly taste. For a bit of heat, try a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You could even go for a savory sweet combo with a tiny sprinkle of brown sugar.
The possibilities are endless, so have a play!
Are kale chips actually good for you? I need some good news!
They certainly are a healthier alternative to traditional crisps! Kale is packed with vitamins (A, C, and K), antioxidants, and fiber. Baked kale chips retain much of this goodness, especially when made with a healthy oil like olive oil.
Just be mindful of the amount of salt and oil you use, and you've got yourself a relatively guilt free snack. It's practically a superfood in disguise!
How do I prevent my kale chips from burning in the oven? I always end up with charcoal!
Burning is a common kale chip woe, but easily avoided! Bake at a relatively low temperature (around 300°F/150°C) to give the kale plenty of time to crisp up without scorching.
Spread the kale in a single layer on the baking sheet and, most importantly, keep a close eye on them towards the end of the baking time. Ovens can vary, so trust your judgement and pull them out when they look crispy and just starting to turn golden brown. A little and often approach, you see!
