Name: Spicy Kale Chips You’ll Crave: A Crunchy Vegan Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 150-180 g Fresh kale; 1 cup Cashews; 1/2 cup Sunflower seeds; 1 cup Water; 2 tablespoons Lemon juice; 1 piece Chipotle pepper (soaked if dried); 1/4 teaspoon Salt

Pin1

1 Shares

There’s a certain delight in discovering a snack that’s both delicious and guilt-free. Picture yourself sinking your teeth into a crunchy, spicy kale chip that bursts with flavor while delivering a wholesome boost. I stumbled upon this satisfying twist on traditional snacking while searching for ways to jazz up my afternoons.

These Dehydrated Raw Vegan Spicy Kale Chips not only hit the spot when those cravings come knocking but also serve up a burst of vibrant energy, perfect for anyone tired of fast food monotony. The magic happens when fresh kale meets a zesty cashew sauce infused with chipotle pepper, giving it a delightful kick. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or sneaking a snack during your Netflix binge, these chips promise to be a crowd-pleaser.

And don’t worry—while they might look fancy, making them at home is as easy as can be. Let’s dive into the recipe and elevate your snacking game together!

Why are Spicy Kale Chips a Must-Try?

Flavorful and Spicy: Each bite packs a punch thanks to the chipotle pepper, turning snacking into a flavor fest.
Healthy Crunch: With kale, cashews, and sunflower seeds, enjoy guilt-free munching that fuels your body.
Simple Preparation: Easy-to-follow steps make these chips a breeze to whip up, no culinary degree required!
Versatile Snack: Whether for a party or solo movie time, they cater to all occasions.
Time-Saving Option: Dehydrate overnight and wake up to delicious snacks, perfect for busy days!

These Spicy Kale Chips bring excitement back to snacking, so why not try them today for a delicious change?

Spicy Kale Chips Ingredients

• Get ready to crunch with these fantastic ingredients!

For the Chips

Fresh kale – A big bunch (150g to 180g) adds the perfect crunch and nutrients.
Cashews – 1 cup, providing a creamy foundation for your zesty sauce.
Sunflower seeds – 1/2 cup, giving an extra layer of flavor and texture.

For the Sauce

Water – 1 cup, helps blend the sauce to a smooth, velvety consistency.
Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons, for that bright, zesty kick that elevates the flavors.
Chipotle pepper – 1, soaked if dried, to give your kale chips that irresistible spicy touch.
Salt – 1/4 tsp, enhancing all the delightful flavors in your spicy kale chips.

With these simple yet powerful ingredients, you’re just moments away from crunchy, mouthwatering snacks bursting with flavor!

How to Make Spicy Kale Chips

Preheat your oven to 350°F if it’s your chosen method for crispiness. If you’re going the dehydrator route, you can skip this step and get right to the fun!
Blend all the sauce ingredients—cashews, sunflower seeds, water, lemon juice, chipotle pepper, and salt—in a blender. Aim for a creamy texture that will perfectly coat the kale leaves.
Prepare the kale by removing the stems. Place the fresh leaves in a large bowl and pour in the spicy cashew sauce. Massage the sauce into the kale for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring every leaf is coated.
Roast the kale if using an oven: Cover a baking dish with parchment paper, lay the coated kale leaves on the parchment, and roast for 25-30 minutes. Check them every 10-15 minutes, flipping if necessary, until they are crispy and slightly golden.
Dehydrate the kale if you prefer that option: Set your dehydrator to 155°F. Lay the kale leaves on the dehydrator sheets and dehydrate for 1 hour. Then lower the temperature to 115°F and continue dehydrating for 10-12 hours, or until crisp.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Spicy Kale Chips?

Transform your snacking adventure into a full meal with delightful pairings that complement these crispy bites.

Creamy Hummus: Perfect for dipping, it adds a smooth texture and rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the crunch of your chips.
Fresh Veggie Sticks: Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks bring a refreshing crunch and a splash of color on your plate, perfect for a vibrant snack spread.
Tangy Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip provides a rich, luscious counterpart, creating harmony with the spicy crunch of your kale chips.
Chilled Green Smoothie: A nutrient-packed smoothie pairs well after indulging in these chips, refreshing your palate and adding another healthy element to your snack time.
Crisp White Wine: An ice-cold glass of Sauvignon Blanc will keep your snack light and breezy, complementing the spicy notes without overwhelming your taste buds.
Fruity Dessert: Consider serving with a light sorbet or fruit salad, giving a sweet finish that contrasts with the savory kale chips, rounding out your meal perfectly.

Each of these options brings out the best in your Spicy Kale Chips, allowing you to enjoy an enticing snack or light meal that satisfies your cravings.

Expert Tips for Spicy Kale Chips

Kale Selection: Choose dark, vibrant green kale leaves for the best flavor and texture. Remove any wilted or discolored leaves to ensure quality.
Massage Technique: Don’t skip the massaging step! It helps soften the kale and allows the spicy cashew sauce to adhere better, enhancing the overall taste.
Watch the Oven: If roasting, keep a close eye on the chips after 20 minutes. Oven temperatures can vary, and you want them crispy, not burnt.
Dehydrator Tips: For dehydrated chips, ensure the kale leaves are not overlapping on the trays. This allows for even drying, preventing sogginess.
Storage Solutions: Store your crunchy spicy kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week—if they last that long!

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Kale Chips are excellent for busy meal preppers! You can prep the spicy cashew sauce and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply blend your sauce ingredients and refrigerate until ready to use. Additionally, you can wash and massage the kale leaves with the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just keep them in the fridge in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent wilting. When it’s time to serve, either roast or dehydrate the kale chips per your instructions, and you’ll enjoy delicious, guilt-free snacks without the last-minute rush!

Spicy Kale Chips Variations

Feel free to explore and customize these tasty kale chips to suit your mood and dietary preferences!

Nut-Free: Swap cashews for 1 cup sunflower seed butter for a creamy, nut-free sauce.
Creamy Avocado: Blend in 1 avocado with the sauce for an extra creamy texture and healthy fats.
Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce for an irresistible smoky twist that surprises the palate.
Heat It Up: Toss in an extra chipotle pepper or a splash of hot sauce for those who crave an exciting kick.
Herb-Infused: Blend in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of flavor and color, making your chips pop.
Cheesy Touch: Stir in a couple of tablespoons of nutritional yeast into the sauce for a delicious cheesy flavor without dairy.
Sweet Twist: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the sauce to balance out the spice with a hint of sweetness.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle some sesame seeds or crushed nuts over the kale before dehydrating for a delightful crunch.

With these variations, you can tailor your Spicy Kale Chips to be uniquely yours—experiment and enjoy every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Kale Chips

Room Temperature: Keep your spicy kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for the best crunch.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain flavor and texture.

Freezer: If you want to store longer, freeze your kale chips for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: If you prefer them warm and crunchy, reheat in an oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes. Enjoy your spicy kale chips at any time!

Dehydrated Raw Vegan Spicy Kale Chips Recipe FAQs

How do I select the freshest kale for my chips?
Absolutely! Look for vibrant, dark green leaves without any brown spots or wilting. The kale should feel crisp to the touch. For the best flavor, choose a big bunch weighing between 150g to 180g.

How should I store my spicy kale chips?
You can store your spicy kale chips in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, ensuring they maintain their delightful crunch. For even longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, but make sure the container is well-sealed.

Can I freeze my kale chips for later enjoyment?
Yes, you can freeze your spicy kale chips for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to munch, you can reheat them in an oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes for that freshly baked taste!

What if my kale chips come out too soggy?
Very! If your kale chips are soggy, it might be due to an overlapping on the dehydrator trays or not enough dehydration time. Make sure to spread the leaves out evenly and check them regularly. For the oven method, ensure they don’t bake for too long at lower temperatures, as this could prevent them from crisping properly.

Can I make these kale chips nut-free?
Absolutely! If you or someone you know has nut allergies, you can substitute cashews with sunflower seed butter or tahini for a creamy texture without nuts. These alternatives retain the delightful flavor while catering to a nut-free diet. Just keep an eye on seasoning adjustments, since different nut alternatives might taste a bit different.

Are spicy kale chips safe for pets?
It’s essential to keep spicy kale chips away from pets, especially due to the chipotle pepper and salt. These ingredients can be harmful to dogs and cats alike. If you’re looking to share a wholesome treat with your furry friend, you can set aside some plain kale leaves—just make sure they are washed and stripped of oils or spices!