| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 50 | 4g | 0.6g | 2g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 0g | 1g | 2g | 0.2g |
There’s something delightfully satisfying about a recipe that is not just delicious, but also packs a punch when it comes to health benefits. That’s exactly what drew me to the recipe for Baked Chaya Chips. Growing up in Portland, Maine, my culinary world was heavily influenced by the abundance of fresh seafood and the Atlantic’s salty breeze. However, I’ve always been game for exploring the health benefits of leafy greens, and chaya leaves are a fantastic discovery.
The Nutritional Powerhouse
Chaya leaves, sometimes referred to as tree spinach, are rich in essential vitamins and minerals. They are packed with calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C, offering a nutrient-dense alternative to traditional potato chips. Adding more greens like chaya into your diet can support bone health, boost your immune system, and improve your overall vitality. Plus, they’re low in calories, making them perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
Unbeatable Flavor and Versatility
What sets Baked Chaya Chips apart is their amazing versatility. The combination of olive oil, sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper creates a melody of flavors that are both familiar and unique. The slight bitterness of the chaya leaves marries beautifully with the aromatic garlic and the slight kick of paprika. If you’re a fan of kale chips, you’ll love these. They also make a fantastic snack on their own or can serve as a crunchy side dish to complement mains like grilled chicken or a hearty bowl of clam chowder.
Baked Chaya Chips don’t just taste great; they also offer a healthier snacking option compared to the usual store-bought varieties. Avoiding preservatives and unhealthy fats means you’re treating your body with kindness. And if you’re looking for more ways to make your diet nutritious, you may find this article on the health benefits of chaya particularly interesting.
So, the next time you crave something crispy and flavorful, consider giving Baked Chaya Chips a try. They’re a wholesome, tasty alternative that even my daughters, Erin and Samantha, have come to love. Trust me, your taste buds and your body will thank you!
For more innovative ways to enjoy leafy greens, check out this roundup on Bon Appétit.
What You’ll Need
- 6 cups chaya leaves, washed and dried
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step Two
In a large bowl, toss the washed and dried chaya leaves with the olive oil until evenly coated.
Step Three
In a small bowl, mix the sea salt, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Step Four
Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the oiled chaya leaves and toss to ensure even distribution.
Step Five
Spread the seasoned chaya leaves in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets, making sure they do not overlap.
Step Six
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chaya leaves are crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step Seven
Remove from the oven and allow the chips to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a serving bowl. Enjoy your Baked Chaya Chips!
