Kale chips are a delicious and nutritious snack that can easily be made in an air fryer. Air fryers are a great way to create healthy and crunchy snacks and meals without a lot of added fat or grease. The process of how to make kale chips in an air fryer is simple and easy to follow, but there are some tips to ensure that it comes out perfect every time.
Prepping the Kale
Before you begin to cook the kale chips, it is important to prepare the kale properly. Wash the leaves carefully and tear them into bite-sized pieces. Remove any remaining stems, as they will not be as crispy as the leaves. Dry the leaves off on a tea towel or paper kitchen towels before adding to the air fryer. It is also important to ensure there is no water left on the leaves. If there is, the chips will not be as crunchy.
Adding Seasonings
Before adding the leaves to the air fryer, lightly spray them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Other seasonings, such as onion powder, garlic powder and chili powder, can also be added to add extra flavor to the chips. It is important not to overload the kale with too much oil or seasoning, as this can cause the chips to become too greasy.
Cooking the Kale
Once the kale is prepared and seasoned, it’s ready to be added to the air fryer. Spread the leaves out across the tray without overcrowding, as this can cause the chips to become soggy. Cook the chips on a medium/high heat for around 7 minutes. Every few minutes, shake the basket to make sure the chips don’t stick together. The chips may take a few extra minutes to cook, depending on the size and shape of the leaves.
Remove The Chips
Once the chips are golden brown and crispy, they are ready to be taken out of the air fryer. Place the chips on a plate or baking tray to cool down before serving. The chips should be slightly crispy, but not so brittle that they break apart easily. If the chips appear to be too soft or dull in color, give them an extra few minutes to cook.
Tips For Making The Perfect Kale Chips
Here are some tips for making perfect kale chips in an air fryer:
- Choose fresh, vibrant leaves that are not wilted or discolored.
- Wash and dry the leaves thoroughly before seasoning.
- Lightly spray the leaves with oil before adding seasonings.
- Cook the chips for no more than 7 minutes to avoid burning them.
- Leave the chips to cool before taking them out of the air fryer.
Storage and Reheating
The kale chips should be stored in an airtight container. The chips can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, cook the chips in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes on a medium/high heat, or place them in the oven for 5 minutes at 200C/400F.
Health Benefits Of Kale Chips
Kale chips are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, fiber, and calcium. They are also a great source of plant-based protein and have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Kale chips are also a low-fat and low-calorie alternative to other snacks, such as potato chips.
Conclusion
Kale chips are an easy and tasty snack that can be made in an air fryer. The process is simple and the chips can be seasoned with any number of herbs and spices to create a unique and delicious taste. Kale chips are also extremely healthy, with many vitamins and minerals, that offer health benefits and help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
