This is the time of year we are usually tending towards the "fluffy" side and giving in to cravings abound due to the overabundance of delectables found at every turn. To combat a this I have been using a bit of a crunchy snack that is so easy to make and does make me feel better that my children and I are getting more of the green food group (no, not the one that contains mint candy canes, fruitcakes, or sprinkled crinkles).
First of all, what is Kale?
First of all, what is Kale?
It is a hardy part of the cabbage family of a variety that produces erect stems with large leaves and no compact head.
The best part? Just look at these stats...
The best part? Just look at these stats...
Image courtesy of www.swansonvitamins.com
Kale is reported to be one of the most nutrient dense foods naturally available, if you buy organic kale, I am not sure there is a better snack food available. But, what about the taste? I have to admit skepticism before trying it myself. It really is good. It has all the crunch of a light, flaky, thinly sliced potato chip, with none of the guilt. Weird really that a leafy green gets crunchy when cooked (usually they wilt, think cabbage spinach, etc) I wonder who accidentally came up with the idea? It works though!
So, how do you make Kale chips? It is so easy it takes about 3 minutes to make them and 10-15 minutes to cook them.
STEP #1:
Tear the Kale from the stems, I just pull off small sections about the size of a silver dollar or a bit larger.
So, how do you make Kale chips? It is so easy it takes about 3 minutes to make them and 10-15 minutes to cook them.
STEP #1:
Tear the Kale from the stems, I just pull off small sections about the size of a silver dollar or a bit larger.
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STEP #2:
Toss the Kale leaves with olive oil, I didn't even measure but I would guess a few tablespoons, you just want the leaves shiny so that the seasonings you add will stick while baking
STEP#3:
Sprinkle Salt, Pepper, Garlic powder and whatever else you like over top of the Kale. Spread into a single layer on a large cookie sheet.
Toss the Kale leaves with olive oil, I didn't even measure but I would guess a few tablespoons, you just want the leaves shiny so that the seasonings you add will stick while baking
STEP#3:
Sprinkle Salt, Pepper, Garlic powder and whatever else you like over top of the Kale. Spread into a single layer on a large cookie sheet.
STEP#4:
Bake at 300 for 10-15 minutes, sometimes you may need to turn the leaves to be sure both sides are crunchy, just bake until they are not soft at all but all crunchy, like fall leaves.
That's it!
Bake at 300 for 10-15 minutes, sometimes you may need to turn the leaves to be sure both sides are crunchy, just bake until they are not soft at all but all crunchy, like fall leaves.
That's it!
