Crispy Kale Chips Recipe
Kale has been a staple in European diets for centuries, prized for its hardiness and nutritional value. However, kale chips as we know them today are a relatively recent creation, gaining popularity in the early 21st century as the health food movement grew.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Salad spinner (optional)
- Kitchen towel
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 bunch of kale (curly kale works best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder,
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for added flavor
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This lower temperature helps to slowly dry out the kale, ensuring that the chips become crispy without burning.
- Wash the kale thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. If you have a salad spinner, use it to dry the kale; if not, pat the leaves dry with a kitchen towel. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to achieve a crispy texture. Once dry, remove the tough stems and tear the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the kale pieces in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the kale and sprinkle with sea salt.
- If you’re adding extra seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne pepper, now is the time to do so. Use your hands to gently massage the oil and seasonings into the kale, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Spread the seasoned kale pieces out in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Overcrowding the pan can result in soggy chips, so use two baking sheets if necessary.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Check the kale chips after 10 minutes to ensure they’re not burning, then rotate the pan for even cooking. The chips are ready when they’re crisp to the touch and slightly browned around the edges.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the kale chips cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time allows them to crisp up even more. Enjoy your kale chips on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice!