Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Veggies- shouldn't they be healthy?!

Gotta love our country. We take something healthy, douse it with oil, and fry them to our hearts content. Or there are those products that try reel in the "I want to be healthy" people by making things sound way healthier than they are. Take those yummy Veggie Chips for instance.
Or there is a somewhat healthier version. But still these chips are saturated in various oils.
I had time to attempt a homemade version. It was largely a success (although it takes time to master the baking time so the veggies come out crispy). But prepare this snack according to the directions below and go figure- your veggies remain a healthy snack. Perfect to snack on when you get home from a ride and need something salty while you prepare a "real" meal.

1. Pick your favorite veggies. The best are carrots, sweet potatoes, yams, and green beans.
2. Peel veggies and slice very thin (important or they won't crisp). Lay in a single layer on paper towel and sprinkle evenly with salt. Let stand for at least 30 minutes, allowing vegetables to release moisture. (Potatoes hold more moisture so the longer u can let them sit the better).

3. Rinse well in cold water and dry completely! Again, make sure to dry completely so they crisp in the oven
4. Arrange veggie slices in a single layer on baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray. Spray vegetables
lightly (too much and they come out soggy) with cooking spray. Bake at 275 for 40 to 50 minutes. Flip half way through cooking.
I'll admit they aren't as good as the store bought super crispy veggie chips, but considering they're healthy and oil free....I love 'em!

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