Are you looking for a healthy and delicious snack that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! These dehydrated kale chips are the perfect solution. Crispy, flavorful, and surprisingly addictive, they're a guilt-free way to satisfy your crunchy cravings. Forget those store-bought bags filled with sodium and preservatives; this homemade version lets you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthy and delicious treat. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick and easy way to add a nutritious element to your diet. Let's dive into this simple recipe for homemade healthy meals!
Ingredients:
- 1 large bunch of kale (about 10 ounces), stems removed and thoroughly washed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Kale:
Remove the tough stems from the kale leaves. Wash the leaves thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving crispy chips; excess moisture will lead to soggy results. Tear or cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Season the Kale:
In a large bowl, toss the kale pieces with olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Ensure the kale is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Step 3: Dehydrate the Kale:
Arrange the seasoned kale in a single layer on your dehydrator trays. Make sure the pieces aren't overlapping; this will ensure even dehydration and crispiness. Dehydrate at 135°F (57°C) for 4-6 hours, or until the kale is completely dry and crispy. Check periodically and rotate trays for even drying. If you don't have a dehydrator, you can use your oven's lowest setting with the door slightly ajar (use an oven thermometer to monitor the temperature), but it will take longer and might require more attention.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Kale Chips:
Once the kale chips are completely dehydrated, carefully remove them from the trays and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cooking Tips for the Best Kale Chips:
- Dry is Key: Thoroughly drying the kale leaves before seasoning and dehydrating is the most important step for achieving crispy chips.
- Even Coating: Ensure the kale is evenly coated with oil and seasonings for consistent flavor.
- Single Layer: Avoid overcrowding the dehydrator trays to ensure even airflow and prevent soggy chips.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor, while red pepper flakes add a spicy kick.
Variations:
- Spicy Kale Chips: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Garlic Parmesan Kale Chips: Sprinkle with parmesan cheese after dehydrating for a savory flavor.
- Lemon Herb Kale Chips: Add lemon zest and dried herbs like oregano or thyme for a brighter flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the amount of kale and oil used. However, kale chips are generally a low-calorie, high-fiber, and nutrient-rich snack. They are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K.
This simple recipe for dehydrated kale chips offers a quick and easy way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Perfect for healthy meals or as a delicious snack, they are a fantastic addition to any healthy lifestyle. Enjoy!