If you’re looking for a healthy, crunchy snack that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, kale chips are a fantastic choice. Making kale chips in the oven is surprisingly simple and requires just a few ingredients. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite seasonings to suit your taste. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide to help you make perfect crispy kale chips every time.
Why Make Kale Chips?
Kale chips are a great way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of kale-rich in vitamins A, C, and K-without the bitterness or chewiness that raw kale can sometimes have. When baked properly, kale transforms into a light, crunchy snack that’s low in calories, vegan, gluten-free, and incredibly satisfying.
What You’ll Need
– 1 bunch of curly kale (curly kale works best for chips)
– 1 to 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon of fine sea salt
– Optional: black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite spice blends
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) for a low and slow bake that crisps the kale without burning it.
2. Prepare the Kale
– Remove the thick, woody stems from the kale leaves. These can be saved for stock or discarded.
– Tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, a bit larger than tortilla chips since they shrink while baking.
3. Wash and Dry Thoroughly
Rinse the kale leaves well. This step is crucial because any moisture left on the leaves will cause them to steam instead of crisp up. Use a salad spinner or pat dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels until the kale is completely dry.
4. Season the Kale
Place the dry kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Gently toss or massage the kale to ensure each piece has a thin, even coating of oil. Avoid using too much oil, as it can prevent crispiness.
5. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the kale in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure the leaves don’t overlap too much to allow air to circulate and crisp the leaves evenly. You might need two sheets if your kale bunch is large.
6. Bake the Kale Chips
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 8 to 12 minutes, checking closely after 8 minutes to prevent burning. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking for even cooking. The chips are done when they are crisp but still bright green, not browned or burnt.
7. Cool and Enjoy
Remove the kale chips from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. They will become even crispier as they cool. If you like, sprinkle with extra salt or your favorite seasoning blends before serving.
Tips for Perfect Kale Chips
– Dry Kale is Key: Make sure your kale is as dry as possible before baking to avoid soggy chips.
– Low and Slow: Baking at a lower temperature (around 300°F) helps prevent burning and bitterness while ensuring crispiness.
– Don’t Overcrowd: Give your kale pieces room to breathe on the baking sheet for the best texture.
– Oil Lightly: A thin coating of oil is enough to help the chips crisp and carry flavor without making them greasy.
– Customize Your Flavor: Try garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, chili powder, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese after baking for variety.
Flavor Ideas to Try
– Classic Sea Salt: Just olive oil and sea salt for a simple, clean taste.
– Garlic Parmesan: Add garlic powder and sprinkle with grated parmesan after baking.
– Spicy Kick: Toss with chili powder or cayenne pepper for some heat.
– Smoky BBQ: Use smoked paprika and a little brown sugar for a sweet and smoky flavor.
– Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy, vegan-friendly twist.
Storing Your Kale Chips
Kale chips are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them crispy, avoid sealing them while still warm or storing them in a humid environment.
Kale chips are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy snack with minimal effort. With just a bunch of kale, some olive oil, and your favorite seasonings, you’ll have a crunchy treat that’s perfect for snacking any time of day. Give it a try, and you might find yourself reaching for kale chips instead of traditional chips!
Enjoy your homemade crispy kale chips!