Q. My wife made some kale chips in the oven the other day, and I have to admit I actually like them! It took a while to make them though, what with heating up the oven and everything. I asked her why she didn’t just make them in the microwave, and she said she didn’t think it was possible. She was afraid that they would be too delicate for a microwave and that they would burn. I can see how that would be a possibility, but I would probably make them myself if they could be made in the microwave. I’m sure there’s a way to get the same results in a microwave that you can get in an oven. Can you microwave kale chips?
A. You’re right, you can microwave kale chips! The benefit to microwaving kale chips over baking them is that they tend to keep their green colour better in the microwave, making them much more appetizing, in my opinion. The other great part is that it only takes about 3-4 minutes to microwave them, no preheating required!
The trick to making great kale chips in the microwave is to start with completely dry kale. This means that after washing and drying your kale, place it between a few layers of paper towel for a few hours in the fridge to really allow all of the moisture to escape. Then season your kale the way you prefer for chips.
The second key to getting great kale chips from the microwave is to invest in a microwave chip maker, which is a raised microwavable plate that is vented on the bottom for air flow. This allows the chips to cook evenly. Place the kale in a single layer on the plate, and then place in the microwave. Microwave on medium for about 3-4 minutes, checking periodically to ensure that the kale doesn’t burn. Remove the kale chips from the microwave and allow to cool before eating. They should still be green and be nice and crispy, kind of like a potato chip. For best results, enjoy them as soon as possible.
If you end up with leftovers, store leftover kale chips in an airtight container on the counter. The chips should last for a few days if stored carefully. Do not microwave already cooked kale chips.