How to make kale chips: an alternative to the traditional potato chip

[TeenHelp]

How to make kale chips: an alternative to the traditional potato chip
By Cassie (cynefin)

Kale, sometimes called leaf cabbage, is a dark green and leafy vegetable. Kale is typically dark green, but it can also have purple leaves. Kale is known for containing fiber and Vitamin K, but it also has calcium and iron among other nutrients.

Kale is used in salads and soups, but it can also be baked into a chip. Kale chips tend to be versatile because a variety of oils and seasonings can be used to add flavor.

To make kale chips, you'll need the following:

• Kale! Some suggest using an entire bag, but you can also use enough to cover a baking pan or two. Just know that the amount of seasoning and oil will be determined by the amount of kale you use.
• Oil of your choice (e.g. olive, coconut, or avocado oils).
• Seasonings of your choice (salt, powders, etc).
• A large bowl or a gallon sized resealable bag.
• Baking trays.

To begin, rinse and dry your kale. Try to dry it as much as you can to help it crisp easily. Following this, tear the kale into bitesize pieces. If you'd like, you can trim the stem. You can leave it as well; do some experimenting and see which you prefer.

Put your kale into your large bowl or into the resealable bag. Add a bit of oil and the seasonings you chose. Next, use your hands to mix the oil, seasonings, and kale. Alternatively, seal the bag and shake it for a while.

Spread your pieces of kale out on a baking sheet. Try to keep them from touching, as this can cause a longer baking time. Recommended baking temperatures and times vary; however, some suggest to bake at 225F (107C) or higher than 300F (148C) for 10 to 15 minutes. Experiment to find the baking time and temperature that works best for you.

Stay near the oven while you're baking the kale. This will ensure the kale will not become burned, and it will allow you to turn the pan or move the pieces of kale as needed.

When the kale is done, it should be crisp and browning at the edges. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow it to cool for a while. Try tasting your chips now, or wait until later. Once cool, chips can be stored in a container for a few days.