Kale is a secret weapon against inflammation and chronic pain. Some people are so over kale, that they are missing out on its healing properties. Its anti-inflammatory compounds destroy viruses and promotes the production of healthy new tissue. And on top of that, Kale is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, chlorophyll, amino acids, vitamins A, C, E, K, B-complex and minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper, and potassium. That is why it became very popular among vegans and vegetarians. Smoothies are not the only way to take advantage of the benefits kale offers, so bake some kale chips and enjoy them while you Netflix binge.
Kale Chips with Vegan Cheese
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INGREDIENTS
1 bundle curly green or purple kale (the purple variety has a milder flavor)
1-2 Tbsp (15-30 ml) melted coconut oil (olive oil and avocado oil are other options)
Brazil nuts to grate on top as vegan cheese – however all these seasonings are a perfect choice
Himalayan salt
Nutritional Yeast
Curry Powder
Cumin
Chili Powder
Onion Powder
Cayenne Pepper
Or a mixture of a few like Himalayan Salt, Curry Powder, and Nutritional Yeast
PREP
Preheat oven to 300F
Rinse and thoroughly dry kale
Tear the leaves into pieces
Compost the stems or freeze them for future use in smoothies or soups
Add kale leaves into a large mixing bowl
Drizzle the oil and massage well until every leaf is covered.
Sprinkle the seasonings -except the brazil nuts, they taste better after the kale is baked
Spread out the kale onto a baking sheet making sure is not to overcrowded
Bake for 10 minutes and then rotate the pan
Bake for 10-15 minutes more until the kale begins to firm up
The kale will shrunk and the leaves will golden
Approx 25 minutes kale should be ready
Let it cool so it’s crispy enough - while it cools, grate the Brazil Nuts on top. It will resemble parmesan cheese. If you eat cheese, grate parmigiano reggiano or pecorino.
TIPS:
Bake at low temperature to ensure crispiness
Make sure kale is completely dry before baking
Add any liquids like tamari sauce after the kale has cool to avoid sogginess
Layer some rice inside your container to absorb humidity
May last up to 3 days - depending on the seasonings you chose.