The Ultimate Crispy Garlic Kale Chips Recipe (Dehydrator Method)

If you’re a devoted admirer of crisp, flavorful snacks and crave a healthy alternative, then you are in for a treat! This irresistible Garlic Kale Chips recipe, often affectionately dubbed “Vampire Killer Kale Chips,” takes simple dinosaur kale and transforms it into an intensely garlicky, utterly delicious, and surprisingly nutritious snack. By using a food dehydrator, we achieve an unparalleled crispiness that oven-baked versions often struggle to match, locking in all the vibrant flavor and vital nutrients.

Prepare yourself for a snack that’s not only packed with B vitamins and other beneficial phytonutrients but also boasts a bold garlic flavor that will keep you coming back for more. Dive into this recipe and elevate your vegetable intake with a snack that’s both satisfying and delightfully crunchy.

Why These Garlic Kale Chips Will Become Your Favorite Healthy Snack

Among the handful of recipes I’ve carried over from my vegan days, these garlic kale chips stand out as truly exceptional and worthy of sharing with everyone. They offer a unique blend of robust flavor and wholesome goodness, making them an ideal choice for anyone seeking a guilt-free snack.

A word of caution, however: this recipe is a copycat of the famously potent Brad’s kale chips, which means it is *extremely* heavy on the garlic. We leverage a double dose of garlic, incorporating both fresh minced garlic and garlic powder to achieve a truly intense flavor profile. Rest assured, with every crispy bite, you’ll be well-protected from any lurking vampires. Perhaps your colleagues and family might also prefer to keep a respectful distance after you’ve indulged – a small price to pay for such a powerfully delicious snack! Consider saving this potent treat for when you have a little personal space.

It’s almost unbelievable, but I used to make this recipe with *twice* the amount of garlic listed below. My dedicated (and brave) recipe testers, primarily my family, unanimously agreed that this was far too much garlic for the average palate. So, trust me when I say, even with the reduced amount, you are still getting an abundance of incredible garlic flavor.

The Dehydrator Advantage: Achieving Unrivaled Crispiness

The secret to perfectly crisp kale chips lies in the method of drying. While ovens can work, a food dehydrator offers superior results, providing a consistent low temperature that gently removes moisture without cooking the kale. This slow, even drying process prevents burning and ensures a wonderfully airy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that is characteristic of truly great kale chips.

Many years ago, I acquired my trusted Nesco American Harvest Food Dehydrator for about $25 on Craigslist, and it has been an invaluable kitchen tool ever since. Most conventional ovens simply cannot maintain the precise low temperatures required for dehydrating without risking uneven cooking or bitterness. Any standard food dehydrator, however, will perform beautifully for this recipe, making it an essential appliance for anyone serious about crafting the best crispy snacks.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Benefits of Kale and Nutritional Yeast

Kale is widely celebrated as a superfood, and for good reason. It’s an exceptionally nutrient-dense leafy green, packed with an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. In every serving of these kale chips, you’ll benefit from high levels of Vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health, as well as significant amounts of Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), crucial for vision and immune function, and Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports skin health and immunity.

Beyond these, kale provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety, making these chips an excellent choice for weight management. It also contains various phytonutrients, including sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol, which have been studied for their potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Nutritional yeast, a key ingredient in our coating, adds a delicious cheesy, umami flavor that perfectly complements the garlic. It’s also a fantastic source of B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin), which are vital for energy production, brain function, and overall metabolic health. For those following a vegan or vegetarian diet, nutritional yeast is particularly valuable as a source of B12, which is often difficult to obtain from plant-based foods alone. Together, kale and nutritional yeast create a snack that is not only satisfying to your taste buds but also a true boon for your health.

🥬 Vampire Killer Garlic Kale Chips Recipe

Ready to discover how to make the best garlic kale chips using your dehydrator? Here’s what you’ll need for this incredibly flavorful and healthy snack:

Ingredients:

• 10 ounces dinosaur kale pieces (283 grams) – also known as Lacinato or Tuscan kale
• ½ cup nutritional yeast – for that irresistible cheesy flavor and B vitamins
• ¼ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed) – adds a bright, tangy kick
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder – for an intense, savory base
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped – fresh garlic takes the flavor to the next level
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika – for a smoky depth
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley – for herbaceous notes and visual appeal
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic beautifully
• 1½ tablespoons almond butter – helps bind the coating and adds richness
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – season perfectly to your preference
• Cooking spray of choice – for preparing your dehydrator trays

How to Make Crispy Garlic Kale Chips (Step-by-Step)

Follow these detailed instructions to create the crispiest, most flavorful kale chips you’ve ever tasted:

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Arrange on Trays: Carefully spread the coated kale leaves in a single, even layer across your prepared dehydrator trays. Avoid overcrowding, as this will hinder air circulation and lead to uneven drying and potentially soggy chips. Give each piece enough space to dry effectively.

Tips for Achieving Perfectly Crispy Kale Chips

Making truly exceptional kale chips requires attention to a few key details that can make all the difference between soggy disappointment and crunchy perfection. Here are some expert tips to ensure your garlic kale chips are always a hit:

• Thoroughly Dry the Kale: This cannot be stressed enough. Water is the enemy of crispiness. After washing, use a salad spinner to remove as much water as possible, then pat the leaves completely dry with paper towels. Any residual moisture will lead to steaming instead of drying, resulting in a soft, rather than crispy, chip.
• Massage Vigorously: The massaging step is crucial. It not only helps the coating adhere evenly but also breaks down the tough fibers of the kale, tenderizing it and preparing it for dehydration. Don’t be shy – really work that paste into every nook and cranny of the leaves until they feel soft and fully coated.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Spread the coated kale in a single layer on your dehydrator trays, leaving space between the pieces. Overcrowding restricts airflow, trapping moisture and leading to uneven drying and potentially soggy patches. It’s better to dry in batches if you have a smaller dehydrator.
• Rotate Trays: Dehydrators often have hotter or cooler spots. Rotating your trays halfway through the drying process ensures all chips receive even heat and airflow, promoting uniform crispness.
• Test for Crispness: The drying time is a guideline. True readiness is determined by texture. A perfectly dehydrated kale chip should be light, brittle, and snap easily when bent. If it still feels pliable or chewy, it needs more time.
• Cool Completely Before Storing: Once dehydrated, allow the chips to cool completely to room temperature before storing. Storing warm chips can create condensation, leading to sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you need to refrigerate kale chips?

Store-bought kale chips, like Brad’s veggie chips, are often shelf-stable and can be kept in a cool, dry pantry without refrigeration. However, homemade dehydrated kale chips typically do not store as well, as they are more prone to absorbing moisture from the air and losing their crispness over time. If you happen to have leftovers, it’s best to store your homemade kale chips in an airtight container in the refrigerator, ideally with a paper towel inside to absorb any remaining moisture. Ensure they are completely dry before storing to maximize their shelf life and crispness. For best results, enjoy them as soon as possible after dehydrating!

Why are my homemade kale chips bitter?

Bitterness in homemade kale chips can stem from several factors. One common reason is using kale that is old or has been stored improperly, as aging can increase bitterness. Another culprit could be insufficient washing, leaving residual dirt or pesticides on the leaves. Additionally, if the kale chips are overcooked, particularly in an oven at too high a temperature, they can develop an unpleasant bitter taste. The gentle, low heat of a dehydrator helps mitigate this risk, but ensuring fresh, clean kale and proper drying techniques are key.

How do you get the bitterness out of kale chips?

To avoid bitterness, start with the freshest kale possible. Thoroughly wash and dry the leaves. Before dehydrating, gently massage the kale with a small amount of olive oil and salt. This process helps to break down the kale’s cell walls, tenderizing it and reducing its natural bitterness, while also enhancing the flavor profile. Make sure not to over-dehydrate; cook them just until they are perfectly crispy, and no longer.

How do you keep kale chips from getting soggy?

The key to preventing soggy kale chips lies in meticulous preparation and proper drying. First, ensure the kale leaves are massaged thoroughly with the coating before dehydrating. This not only infuses flavor but also helps to break down the kale, allowing for better moisture release. Second, avoid overcrowding the dehydrator trays. Spreading the kale in a single, even layer allows for optimal air circulation, which is essential for uniform drying and crispness. If trays are too full, moisture can get trapped, leading to steaming instead of crisping. Finally, once the chips are perfectly dry and cool, store them in an airtight container. Adding a desiccant packet or a small piece of paper towel can also help absorb any lingering moisture, further maintaining their delightful crunch.

How to make a garlic kale chips air fryer recipe?

No dehydrator? No problem! You can still enjoy delicious garlic kale chips using your air fryer. Here’s a quick method: Begin by washing and thoroughly drying about 1/2 bunch of kale leaves, then remove the thick, tough stems. Tear the remaining leaves into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the kale with a drizzle of olive oil, minced garlic (adjust to your preference!), and a pinch of salt. Ensure all the leaves are lightly coated. Arrange the seasoned kale in a single layer in your air fryer basket – you may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook at 350°F (177°C) for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the chips are delightfully crispy. Keep a close eye on them as air fryers can cook quickly!

What’s the best kale chip seasoning?

While these lemon-garlic kale chips are a definite crowd-pleaser, the beauty of homemade snacks is the endless customization! If you’re looking to explore beyond our “Vampire Killer” flavor, the possibilities for kale chip seasoning are vast. For a savory, cheesy alternative without dairy, consider a generous dusting of nutritional yeast, perhaps with a touch of onion powder for a “cheesy onion” flavor. You could also try making “Parmesan” kale chips by adding a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan cheese or a blend of savory spices. For an earthy, warm flavor, sprinkle on some ground cumin or a curry powder blend. If you like a bit of heat, transform them into spicy kale chips with a dash of chili powder, a pinch of cayenne spice, or a generous shake of red pepper flakes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite spice blends – think everything bagel seasoning, Italian herbs, or even a smoky BBQ rub! The best seasoning is truly whatever delights your palate.

👨‍🍳 Other Kale Recipes to Explore

If you’re now a newfound fan of kale or simply looking to incorporate more of this nutritious green into your diet, here are a few more delicious recipes featuring kale:

• Refreshing Kale Apple Slaw
• Copycat Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad
• Classic Baked Kale Chips (Martha Stewart Style)
• High Protein Sun-Dried Tomato Frittata with Baby Kale
• Copycat Chick-fil-A Superfood Salad

Garlic Kale Chips (Vampire Killer Kale Chips Recipe for Dehydrator)

By Summer Yule

If you’re a fan of intensely flavored, crispy snacks, you are going to absolutely love this garlicky homemade kale chips recipe! Perfect for health-conscious snackers and garlic enthusiasts alike.

User Rating: 4.75 stars from 4 votes

Do you enjoy making kale chips as a healthy and delicious snack? If so, what are some of your favorite seasonings to add, elevating the flavor beyond the ordinary? Do you prefer the consistent, gentle drying of a food dehydrator, or do you find success with the quicker, higher heat of an oven?

I’d love to hear all about your kale chip-making process and any unique tips or tricks you’ve discovered along the way! Also, if you try this fantastic recipe for intensely garlicky kale chips, please remember to leave a rating. This crispy, flavorful goodness is truly for the garlic lovers!