Baked Kale Chips
Baked Kale Chips are a nutritious and satisfying snack that’s incredibly easy to make at home. These chips have a delightful crunch and can be customized with your favorite seasonings for a burst of flavor. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of kale.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 bunch of kale (about 6-8 large leaves)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or any of your favorite seasonings
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Prepare the Kale:
Wash the kale leaves thoroughly and dry them completely. You can use a salad spinner or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Ensure the leaves are completely dry to achieve crispy chips.
Remove the tough center ribs from each kale leaf by running a knife or your hands along the sides. Tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Season the Kale:
Place the torn kale pieces in a large mixing bowl.
Drizzle the olive oil over the kale. You may want to start with 1 tablespoon and add more if needed. The goal is to lightly coat the kale leaves, not drench them.
Use your hands to massage the oil into the kale leaves, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This helps the kale become crispy.
Season the kale with a pinch of salt and any optional seasonings you like. Common choices include garlic powder, nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, smoked paprika for smokiness, or cayenne pepper for heat. Customize to your taste.
Bake the Kale Chips:
Arrange the seasoned kale pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. You may need to use two baking sheets or bake in batches if you have a large bunch of kale.
Place the baking sheet(s) in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the kale chips are crispy and have slightly darkened in color. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, as they can go from crispy to overdone quickly.
Serve Baked Kale Chips:
Remove the kale chips from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two on the baking sheet.
Transfer the kale chips to a serving bowl or plate.
Serve your homemade baked kale chips as a healthy and crispy snack.
TIPS
- Experiment with different seasonings to create unique flavor profiles. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a cheesy taste, sprinkle nutritional yeast over the kale.
- Keep a close eye on the kale chips while they’re baking, as they can burn quickly, especially around the edges.
- Be mindful not to over-oil the kale, as excessive oil can make the chips greasy instead of crispy. Start with a small amount and add more if needed.
- Store any leftover kale chips in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Carbohydrates: 4-6g
- Protein: 2-3g
- Fat: 3-4g
- Fiber: 1-2g
