Chipotle Kale Chips: A Delicious Vegan Snack
Kale chips are a fantastic way to enjoy a crunchy, flavorful snack that’s also packed with nutrients. This recipe for Chipotle Kale Chips takes things up a notch with the smoky heat of chipotle powder and the rich flavor of parmesan. The kale is baked to perfection, offering a satisfying crunch without any frying. Whether you’re snacking on them as a healthy treat or serving them at a party, these chips are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large bunch of kale, chopped into 4-inch pieces and stemmed | 1 bunch |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Chipotle powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Parmesan cheese, shredded | ¼ cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 37 kcal
- Fat: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 1 g
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 4 minutes
- Cook Time: 29 minutes
Serving Size: 4 servings
Directions:
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Prepare the Kale: Wash the kale thoroughly, ensuring it’s clean and free of any dirt or debris. Dry it completely before chopping it into approximately 4-inch pieces. Remove the tough stems and set aside.
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Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 250°F (120°C). A low temperature ensures that the kale crisps without burning.
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Line the Baking Sheet: Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent the chips from sticking and to allow for easy cleanup.
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Coat the Kale: In a large bowl, add the chopped kale. Drizzle the kale with olive oil, ensuring every piece is lightly coated. Add the chipotle powder and salt to the kale and toss it all together. Finally, sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the kale and mix it well to distribute evenly.
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Transfer to Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned kale evenly over the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the kale is in a single layer to ensure even crisping.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 19 minutes. After this time, check the kale for crispiness. If the chips aren’t crispy enough, bake for an additional 9 minutes.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once your kale chips are perfectly crisped to your liking, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a snack or a healthy addition to any meal!
Allergen Information:
- Contains dairy (parmesan cheese). Can be made vegan by using a plant-based parmesan alternative.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegan: This recipe can be easily adapted by replacing the parmesan cheese with a vegan-friendly cheese alternative or omitting it entirely.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for those avoiding gluten.
Tips for the Best Kale Chips:
- Dry the Kale Thoroughly: Ensure the kale is as dry as possible after washing. Excess moisture can lead to soggy chips.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread the kale out in a single layer to allow it to crisp evenly. Overcrowding will cause uneven cooking.
- Adjust the Spice Level: For a milder flavor, use less chipotle powder. If you prefer more heat, add an extra pinch.
Conclusion:
These Chipotle Kale Chips are the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and cheesy flavors. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients, and bake up in just under 30 minutes. Whether you’re making them as a healthy snack or serving them at your next gathering, these kale chips are bound to be a hit. With the added benefits of kale’s nutrients and the satisfying crunch of a chip, this recipe is a delightful addition to any plant-based or vegetarian diet.
