Looking for a super easy, healthy, and incredibly satisfying snack? These crispy kale chips are exactly what you need. They’re quick to make and disappear even faster!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Kale: Curly kale works best, but lacinato (dinosaur) kale can also be used.
- Olive Oil: A little healthy fat helps crisp them up. Avocado oil is a great alternative.
- Salt: Essential for flavor. Try garlic powder or onion powder for extra zing.
Ingredients:
- 1 large bunch curly kale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Tools Needed: Baking sheet, parchment paper (optional but recommended), large bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Kale
Wash your kale thoroughly and pat it very dry. Moisture is the enemy of crispy kale chips! Tear the leaves off the tough stems into bite-sized pieces.
2. Season the Kale
In a large bowl, drizzle the kale pieces with olive oil. Use your hands to massage the oil evenly into every piece. Sprinkle with salt and toss again.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the seasoned kale in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure the pieces aren’t overlapping too much. This helps them crisp up instead of steam.
4. Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the kale chips are crispy but not burnt. Keep a close eye on them, as they can go from perfect to overdone quickly!
5. Cool and Enjoy
Remove the kale chips from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. They will crisp up even more as they cool. Serve immediately and enjoy your healthy snack!
Storage Instructions:
Kale chips are best eaten fresh for maximum crispness. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. They might lose some crispness, but can be re-crisped briefly in a low oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Why are my kale chips not crispy?
A: Most likely, the kale wasn’t dry enough before baking, or the oven temperature was too low, causing them to steam instead of crisp.
Q: Can I use different seasonings?
A: Absolutely! Try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, a pinch of cayenne for spice, or even a dash of smoked paprika.
Q: Do I need to remove the stems?
A: Yes, the stems are tough and fibrous and won’t get crispy like the leaves. It’s best to remove them.
Q: How do I know when the kale chips are done?
A: They should be visibly shrunken, firm to the touch, and shatter easily when broken. They will turn a darker green.
Q: Can I use an air fryer for kale chips?
A: Yes, an air fryer works great! Cook at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until crispy. Watch closely!