Baked Kale Chips
If you’re looking for a crispy, satisfying snack that’s both nutritious and easy to make, look no further than baked kale chips. These delightful little morsels are packed with vitamins, minerals, and a whole lot of flavor. Plus, they are incredibly simple to whip up, making them the perfect addition to your healthy snacking repertoire. Whether you’re craving something crunchy while binge-watching your favorite show or need a quick pick-me-up during the day, baked kale chips are the answer. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why You’ll Keep Making It
Baked kale chips are not just a one-time treat; they have a way of becoming a regular part of your snack rotation. Firstly, they are a fantastic way to incorporate more greens into your diet without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. The crispy texture provides a satisfying crunch that rival traditional potato chips. Secondly, they are incredibly versatile; you can easily customize them with different seasonings, making them suitable for every palate—from savory to spicy. Finally, they come together in under 30 minutes, making them a quick and convenient option for anyone with a busy lifestyle. Once you try making these baked kale chips, you’ll find yourself reaching for that bunch of kale more often than you thought possible!
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 bunch kale, stemmed and torn into 3-inch pieces (about 12 cups, see note 1)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (see note 2)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Equipment Breakdown
- Baking sheet: A large, flat pan for even cooking.
- Parchment paper: Optional, but helps to prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Mixing bowl: For tossing the kale with olive oil and seasonings.
- Oven: Essential for baking those chips to crispy perfection.
Stepwise Method: Baked Kale Chips
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the kale to crisp up nicely without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Kale
Wash the kale leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. After washing, dry them completely using a salad spinner or by gently patting them with a clean kitchen towel. Removing moisture is crucial for achieving that coveted crispiness!
Step 3: Tear the Kale
Remove the tough stems and tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, about 3 inches in size. Try to keep the pieces as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Season the Kale
In a large mixing bowl, toss the kale pieces with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure every leaf is lightly coated. This step is essential for that delicious flavor and perfect texture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned kale evenly on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Step 6: Bake the Kale Chips
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the kale is crispy and slightly golden. Be sure to check them halfway through and toss the leaves gently to promote even baking.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy!
Once baked, remove the kale chips from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later.
International Equivalents
- Olive oil: Can be replaced with sunflower oil or avocado oil in different regions.
- Kale: Collard greens or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives.
- Salt: Sea salt, kosher salt, or Himalayan pink salt are all suitable options.
- Black pepper: White pepper can be a substitute for those who prefer a milder flavor.
Behind-the-Scenes Notes
One of the best things about baked kale chips is how forgiving the recipe is. If you prefer a little more zest, consider adding garlic powder, nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a kick. The possibilities are endless! Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of kale; dinosaur kale, also known as lacinato kale, offers a unique texture and flavor that can elevate your chips.
- Note 1: Ensure the kale is fresh and vibrant; wilted leaves won’t yield the best results.
- Note 2: High-quality olive oil will enhance the flavor of your chips significantly.
Freezer-Friendly Notes
While baked kale chips are best enjoyed fresh, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them for longer, consider freezing the kale before baking. Simply wash, dry, and toss with olive oil, then store in freezer bags. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Quick Questions
Can I use other types of greens?
Absolutely! While kale is the star of the show here, you can experiment with other leafy greens like Swiss chard, collard greens, or even spinach. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type of green used.
How do I know when the kale chips are done?
The kale chips will be crispy and slightly curled at the edges. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as they can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly.
What can I serve with baked kale chips?
Baked kale chips are delicious on their own, but they can also be enjoyed with dips like hummus, guacamole, or a yogurt-based dip. They make a great addition to a cheese board too!
Can I make these chips spicy?
Yes! For a spicy kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the kale before baking. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference.
More from the Kitchen
Bring It Home
Baked kale chips are more than just a snack; they’re a delicious way to enjoy the health benefits of kale while satisfying that crunch craving. Whether you’re serving them at a party, packing them for a lunch, or just enjoying them as a post-workout nibble, these chips are sure to impress. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward preparation method, you’ll find yourself making them time and time again. So go ahead, grab that bunch of kale, and get ready to create a flavorful, guilt-free treat that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Enjoy the crispy goodness of baked kale chips!
Baked Kale Chips
Ingredients
- 1 bunch kale stemmed and torn into 3-inch pieces (about 12 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt to taste
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the kale to crisp up nicely without burning.
- Wash the kale leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. After washing, dry them completely using a salad spinner or by gently patting them with a clean kitchen towel.
- Remove the tough stems and tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, about 3 inches in size. Try to keep the pieces as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the kale pieces with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Make sure every leaf is lightly coated. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste.
- Spread the seasoned kale evenly on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of crisping. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the kale is crispy and slightly golden. Check them halfway through and toss the leaves gently to promote even baking.
- Once baked, remove the kale chips from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later.
Equipment
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
- Mixing Bowl
- Oven
Notes
- You can customize the seasoning by adding garlic powder, nutritional yeast, or paprika for extra flavor.
- Use a salad spinner or dry kale thoroughly to ensure crispy chips.
- Store baked kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Try freezing kale before baking for longer storage and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
- Substitute kale with collard greens or Swiss chard for a different twist.
