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How to Make Crispy Kale Chips: Oven or Air Fryer Recipe

Kale chips are a delicious and healthy snack option that can add a satisfying crunch to your day. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a nutritious alternative to traditional crisps. Whether you prefer the convenience of an air fryer or the classic method of using an oven, making these crispy kale chips is easy and quick. Below, we’ll guide you through both methods to ensure you enjoy a perfect batch every time.

Ingredients

• 1 large bunch of kale (curly or dinosaur kale)
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or your preferred oil)
• Sea salt (to taste)
• Optional seasonings: garlic powder, smoked paprika, nutritional yeast, or chilli flakes

Preparing the Kale

1. Choose Your Kale: Select a fresh bunch of kale, free from wilting or yellowing. Curly kale is more common, but dinosaur kale offers a slightly different texture and flavour.

2. Wash and Dry: Thoroughly wash the kale leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. After washing, you must ensure the leaves are completely dry; excess moisture can lead to soggy chips rather than crispy ones. You can use a salad spinner or pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

3. Remove the Stems: Kale stems can be tough and fibrous, so it’s best to remove them. Hold a leaf by the stem and pull the leafy green away. Repeat this for the rest of the leaves.

4. Tear the Leaves: Tear the kale into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly equal in size for even cooking.

Method 1: Oven-Baked Kale Chips

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). A lower temperature helps to dehydrate the kale and achieve that perfect crispiness without burning.

2. Season the Kale: In a large bowl, toss the torn kale pieces with olive oil, ensuring each leaf is coated evenly. Sprinkle with sea salt and any optional seasonings you desire.

3. Arrange on a Baking Tray: Spread the seasoned kale in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Avoid overcrowding the tray, as this can cause steaming rather than crisping.

4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent burning – every oven is different.

5. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the kale chips cool for a few minutes. They will continue to crisp up as they cool. Enjoy as a snack on their own or as a crunchy topping for salads!

Method 2: Air Fryer Kale Chips

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: If your air fryer requires preheating, set it to 160°C (320°F).

2. Prepare the Kale: Follow the same preparation steps as outlined above: wash, dry, remove the stems, and tear the leaves.

3. Season the Kale: Just like with the oven method, toss the kale with olive oil and your choice of seasonings.

4. Air Fry: Place the seasoned kale in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Depending on your air fryer’s capacity, you may need to do this in batches. Close the air fryer and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Keep a close eye on them as they can go from perfectly crispy to burnt rather quickly.

5. Cool and Serve: Once finished, carefully remove the kale chips and allow them to cool for a bit. They will firm up as they cool, making for a delightful crunchy snack.

Final Thoughts

Whichever method you choose, kale chips are an easy and versatile snack that can be customised to your liking. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect flavour combination. Whether enjoyed on their own or as a healthy addition to a meal, crispy kale chips are sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Enjoy creating this delightful treat at home!

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