Nacho Cheesy Kale Chips
Ingredients
- 2 bunches curly kale
- 2 cups cashews soaked for 2 hours
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne more or less to taste depending on your preferences)
(optional
- Juice of 1 lemon 2 - 3 tablespoons
- 3/4 cup water
Directions
- 1
Add the kale to a very large mixing bowl (or separate into two if you don't have one large enough - you need to be able to toss it around).
- 2
Add the remaining ingredients to a blender (or food processor) and blend until smooth. Pour the 'cheese' sauce over the kale and mix with your hands until the leaves are covered.
- 3
If you have a dehydrator, arrange the kale chips in your dehydrator and dehydrate at 120ºF for 12 - 14 hours, until crispy.
- 4
If not, heat your oven to 225ºF. Spread the kale on two baking sheets trying to not overlap as much as possible. Bake for 90 minutes, flipping halfway through (and swapping your pans on the racks).
- 5
Allow chips to completely cool before storing in a sealed container or bag. They must be TOTALLY cooled or they won't stay crispy!
Nacho Cheesy Kale Chips
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About this Recipe
Craving a snack that's both deeply satisfying and genuinely good for you? These Nacho Cheesy Kale Chips deliver all the bold, savory flavors of your favorite nacho dip in a surprisingly healthy, crispy form. Get ready to rethink what a "chip" can be.
The genius of these chips lies in their incredibly rich and creamy vegan nacho sauce. It's a marvel of flavor engineering, meticulously crafted from soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, and a symphony of spices. This unique sauce perfectly coats every ruffled leaf of kale, allowing it to bake down into a remarkably crispy, "cheesy," and utterly addictive snack that stands head and shoulders above store-bought alternatives.
With your first bite, you'll encounter an immediate burst of savory, umami-rich flavor, unmistakably reminiscent of classic nacho cheese but with a fresh, vibrant twist. The chili powder and smoked paprika provide a warming depth, while the optional cayenne adds a gentle or robust kick, depending on your preference. The texture is key here – a delightful, airy crunch that gives way to the intense, layered flavors. This recipe delivers a guilt-free indulgence, transforming simple kale into an experience that satisfies both your taste buds and your desire for wholesome eating.
This recipe is naturally plant-based, making it an excellent, flavorful option for vegan diets or for anyone seeking a nutritious alternative to traditional fried snacks. The amount of cayenne is entirely up to you; feel free to adjust it or omit it completely to match your desired level of heat. You can experiment with adding a pinch more garlic powder or a dash of onion powder to the sauce for an even deeper savory profile.
These Nacho Cheesy Kale Chips are incredibly versatile, perfect for elevating your snack game, serving as a unique appetizer at parties, or even as a vibrant, textural side dish alongside sandwiches or wraps. They're a fantastic choice for a healthy afternoon pick-me-up or a flavorful crunch to munch on while relaxing.