Kale chips have become increasingly popular as a healthy and delicious snack alternative. Not only are they packed with nutrients, but they also offer a satisfying crunch that can rival traditional potato chips. Making kale chips in the Ninja Air Fryer is quick and easy, and it allows you to enjoy the health benefits of kale without sacrificing flavor. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making kale chips in the Ninja Air Fryer, ensuring that you achieve perfectly crispy and flavorful chips every time.
Gathering the Ingredients and Equipment
Kale
The first step in making kale chips is to gather the necessary ingredients and equipment. The main ingredient, of course, is kale. Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber. For this recipe, you can choose any type of kale you prefer, whether it’s curly kale, Lacinato (also known as Tuscan or dinosaur kale), or even purple kale.
Olive Oil
You will also need olive oil to coat the kale leaves. Olive oil not only adds a delicious flavor to the chips but also helps them crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Extra-virgin olive oil is the best choice as it is unrefined and retains more of its natural antioxidants.
Seasonings
To add flavor to your kale chips, you can use various seasonings. Some popular options include sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, or even nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste. Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to find the combination that pleases your taste buds the most.
Ninja Air Fryer
As the name suggests, you will need a Ninja Air Fryer to make these chips. This specific air fryer model is ideal for kale chips as it provides a quick and efficient cooking process that gives them that perfect crunch. If you don’t have a Ninja Air Fryer, you can still follow along, but the cooking times may vary slightly.
Preparing the Kale
Washing and Drying
Before you can proceed with making the kale chips, it is crucial to start by properly washing and drying the kale leaves. Rinse the leaves under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities. Gently pat the leaves dry using a clean kitchen towel or a paper towel. It’s important to ensure that the leaves are completely dry to achieve the desired crispiness.
Removing the Stems and Ripping
Next, you need to remove the tough stems from the kale leaves. Hold the stem with one hand and firmly pull the leaves away from it, tearing them into bite-sized pieces as you go. You can discard the stems or reserve them for making vegetable stock or adding to soups and stews for added nutrition.
Tossing and Seasoning
Once the kale leaves are prepared, it’s time to toss them with olive oil and seasonings. Place the torn kale leaves in a large mixing bowl and drizzle them with a tablespoon or two of olive oil. Use your hands to gently massage the oil into the leaves, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated. This step is essential for achieving crispy chips.
Adding Seasonings
After the kale is well-coated with olive oil, sprinkle your desired seasonings over the leaves. You can be generous with the seasoning as kale’s robust flavor can handle it. Toss the leaves once more to evenly distribute the seasonings.
Air Frying the Kale Chips
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you start cooking the kale chips, preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the desired temperature, helping to achieve a crispy texture.
Air Frying in Batches
Since kale leaves can take up a lot of space, it’s best to cook them in batches to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. Spread a single layer of seasoned kale leaves on the air fryer basket, ensuring that they are not overlapping. Cook the kale chips for 5-7 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time using tongs or a spatula. Keep a close eye on them as they can quickly transition from perfectly crispy to burnt.
Checking for Doneness
To check if the kale chips are done, simply remove one piece and let it cool for a few seconds before testing its texture. The chips should be crispy and have a light golden color. If needed, you can cook them for an additional minute or two, but be cautious as they can burn quickly.
Cooling and Storing
Once the kale chips are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool completely on a wire rack. This will help them retain their crispiness. You can enjoy the chips immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. However, it’s unlikely that they will last that long as they are incredibly addictive!
Conclusion
Making kale chips in the Ninja Air Fryer is a simple and enjoyable way to prepare a healthy and tasty snack alternative. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can savor the deliciousness of kale while reaping its numerous health benefits. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a craving for something crunchy or trying to incorporate more greens into your diet, these kale chips are an excellent choice. So, grab your Ninja Air Fryer, follow the steps outlined in this article, and indulge in this guilt-free snack that will leave you wanting more.