Craving a satisfying crunch without the guilt? These Baked Kale Chips with Sea Salt are your answer for a delicious Healthy Adults Snack. You will find them incredibly easy to prepare and a fantastic alternative to traditional fried snacks.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Fresh Kale: Use curly kale for the best crispiness.
- Olive Oil: Avocado oil is a good alternative.
- Sea Salt: Fine-grain salt or a flavored salt works too.
Ingredients:
- 1 large bunch curly kale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 80
- Tools Needed: Large baking sheet, parchment paper, large bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Kale
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Wash and Dry Thoroughly
Wash the kale well and pat it completely dry with paper towels. Excess water will prevent your chips from getting crispy. Remove the tough stems by tearing the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
3. Season Your Kale
Place the dry kale pieces in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Use your hands to massage the oil and salt into every piece of kale. This ensures even seasoning and helps tenderize the leaves.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Spread the kale in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Do not overcrowd the pan, as this will steam the kale instead of baking it to a crisp. Use a second baking sheet if necessary.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are slightly brown and crispy. Watch them carefully, as kale can burn quickly. You want them brittle, but not scorched.
6. Cool and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. They will crisp up even more as they cool. Enjoy your perfect Healthy Adults Snack!
Variation Ideas:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the salt.
- Cheesy Flavor: Sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami taste.
- Garlic Lover: Mix in a quarter teaspoon of garlic powder before baking.
- Smoky Twist: Add a dash of smoked paprika for depth of flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store cooled kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To restore crispiness, you can briefly reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as this can make them soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Why isn’t my kale getting crispy?
Ensure your kale is thoroughly dry before oiling and baking. Overcrowding the baking sheet can also prevent crisping.
Can I use frozen kale for this recipe?
No, you should use fresh kale for optimal results. Frozen kale releases too much water.
What kind of kale is best for kale chips?
Curly kale generally works best due to its texture, which provides more surface area for crisping.
How do I prevent the kale from burning?
Keep a close eye on your kale chips, especially during the last few minutes of baking. Ovens can vary, so adjust baking time as needed.
Are these really a healthy snack?
Yes, kale chips are a nutrient-dense Healthy Adults Snack. They are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals.
Can I make these in an air fryer?
You can, but you may need to work in smaller batches and adjust the cooking time and temperature. Experiment for best results.
