Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Spiced Raw Vegan Kale Chips?
Savory Spiced Raw Vegan Kale Chips are a nutritious, crunchy snack made from curly green kale, a creamy cashew-based coating, and a unique blend of spices.
Are these kale chips suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, these kale chips are 100% raw vegan and plant-based.
Are these chips gluten-free?
Yes, these kale chips are gluten-free and suitable for health enthusiasts seeking clean snacks.
Which type of kale is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for one bunch of curly green kale, which provides about 8 firmly packed cups of leaves.
How should I prepare the kale leaves?
Rinse the kale, remove the leaves from the stalks while discarding tough stems, and place them in a colander to drain.
Should the kale be completely dry before coating?
No, the instructions recommend leaving a bit of moisture on the leaves after draining.
Do I need to soak the raw cashews?
Yes, the raw cashews should be soaked in filtered water for 2-4 hours before use.
What is in the cashew coating mixture?
The coating includes soaked cashews, filtered water, fresh lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, Celtic sea salt, and optional agave nectar.
What consistency should the cashew mixture have?
The mixture should be blended until it is smooth, thick, and creamy, resembling the consistency of hummus.
How much garlic is used in the base mixture?
One full bulb of garlic, or approximately 8-10 cloves, is roughly chopped and blended into the mixture.
Is agave nectar required for this recipe?
No, the one tablespoon of agave nectar is listed as an optional ingredient.
What kind of salt is recommended?
The recipe specifies using one teaspoon of Celtic sea salt, or more to taste.
Why do I need to massage the kale?
Massaging ensures that the cashew mixture is thoroughly and evenly distributed across all kale leaves without leaving large clumps.
Should I wear gloves while preparing the chips?
Yes, the instructions suggest putting on kitchen gloves for hygiene while massaging the mixture into the kale.
When is the granulated garlic added?
Four teaspoons of granulated garlic are sprinkled over the kale and tossed gently after the leaves have been coated with the cashew mixture.
What is the ideal temperature for a dehydrator?
The kale chips should be dehydrated at 115 degrees Fahrenheit (46 degrees Celsius) to preserve natural enzymes.
How long does the dehydration process take?
It takes approximately 8 hours in a dehydrator or until the chips are perfectly crisp.
Can I make these chips in a regular oven?
Yes, you can spread the kale on baking sheets and use the lowest oven setting, typically around 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65 degrees Celsius).
How long do the chips take to bake in the oven?
In an oven, the process takes approximately 10-12 hours at the lowest temperature.
What is the secret to getting crispy chips in an oven?
Keep the oven door slightly ajar during the process to allow moisture to escape.
How should I arrange the kale for drying?
Lay the kale chips flat in a single layer on your dehydrator or baking sheets to ensure they dry evenly.
How do I know when the kale chips are finished?
The chips are done when they are perfectly crisp and brittle to the touch.
How should I store the finished kale chips?
Once they have cooled completely, store the chips in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
What makes these chips a healthy alternative?
They are free from harmful additives, preservatives, and frying oils, and the low-heat process preserves natural nutrients.
What provides the 'cheesy' flavor in this vegan recipe?
The combination of 1/4 cup of nutritional yeast and creamy cashews provides a savory, cheese-like taste.
How much fresh lemon juice is needed?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice squeezed from fresh lemons.
Is filtered water necessary for the recipe?
The recipe recommends approximately 1/8 cup of filtered water, added as needed to reach the desired consistency.
Why are these chips considered 'raw'?
They are dehydrated at a low temperature (115 degrees F) rather than high-heat cooked, which keeps the enzymes intact.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 primary ingredients used to make these savory spiced kale chips.
Can I serve these at social gatherings?
Yes, they are described as a nutritious crowd-pleaser that everyone will rave about at gatherings.