Healthy Snacks: Making Dehydrated Broccoli Chips

fresh broccoli
To make dehydrated broccoli chips, start by blanching broccoli in hot water. Allow the broccoli to air dry at room temperature, then cut them into small, even pieces. Arrange the sliced broccoli on dehydrator sheets in single layers. Dehydrate broccoli at 130°F for about 12 hours or until crisp.

Are Dehydrated Broccoli Chips Healthy?

Dried broccoli is a fiber-rich food that supports proper digestion and is low in calories and fat.

Dehydrated broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and minerals such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and protein.

It is a healthy snack on its own or can be added to a dried vegetable mix alongside dehydrated sweet potatoes, kale chips, and dried zucchini slices. It can also be used as a healthy plant-based textural topping for salads and stews.

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broccoli pieces

Dehydrated Broccoli Chips Recipe


  • Author: Patrick
  • Total Time: 10 hours, 20 minutes

Description

Dehydrating broccoli florets to make broccoli chips is simple to do at home using a food dehydrator. These crunchy dried broccoli chips are healthier than most snacks and can be stored for two years in an airtight container!


Ingredients

Scale

Equipment

  • Food dehydrator such as an Excalibur dehydrator
  • Stockpot (for blanching)
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Large bowl (for cooling blanched veggies)
  • Airtight containers (for storage)
  • Clock or timer

Ingredients

  • 2lbs broccoli

Instructions

  1. Start by rinsing broccoli heads with warm water.
  2. Slice the broccoli heads into smaller florets.
  3. Blanch the broccoli florets separately in a hot water bath for 3 minutes before transferring them to a large bowl filled with ice water.
  4. Strain the broccoli to remove excess water, and then place the broccoli pieces on paper towels.
  5. Allow the broccoli pieces to air dry for several minutes, then pat them dry to remove any visible moisture.
  6. Slice the cooled broccoli with a sharp knife or use a mandoline to get thin, even pieces. The pieces should be slightly thicker than a potato chip.
  7. Spread the broccoli slices across the dehydrator trays in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch.
  8. Set the dehydrator temperature to 130°F and allow them to dry for around 12 hours or until they are crispy and brittle. Rotate the dehydrator trays or flip the pieces as necessary if you notice uneven drying.
  9. Remove the broccoli chips from the dehydrator and allow them to cool to room temperature before storing them in a labeled airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Drying Time: 10 hours

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 31kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 0g
  • Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0g

Seasoning and Dip Ideas for Broccoli Chips

Broccoli chips are a blank canvas for flavor – check out these tasty options:

  • Cajun Seasoning:Toss those broccoli chips in this spicy mix of cayenne, paprika, red pepper, and garlic when you’re craving something spicy!
  • Cheesy Hawaiian Dip: Ready for a taste of the islands? This tropical dip is perfect for crispy broccoli chips!
  • Hot Broccoli Dip: Serve this hearty dip with dehydrated broccoli bites for a delicious, gluten-free appetizer!
  • Salt & Vinegar Chips: Substitute kale chips for broccoli chips and toss them with vinegar and Kosher salt. Choose either apple cider vinegar or malt vinegar for a traditional flavor.
  • Sesame Chips: Simply sprinkle broccoli chips with lemon, olive oil, and toasted sesame seeds. This kale recipe can be used to bring out the earthy flavor of broccoli chips.

Why Blanch Broccoli Before Dehydrating It?

Blanching broccoli enhances its color and flavor while speeding up the drying process. It also reduces the time required to rehydrate and helps to prevent the growth of potentially harmful bacteria.

Placing broccoli in a bowl of ice water
Blanching broccoli

Can You Make Dehydrated Broccoli Chips from Frozen Broccoli?

Yes, you can make dehydrated broccoli chips from frozen broccoli. Simply thaw your frozen broccoli and slice it into small, evenly-sized pieces. Pat the broccoli to dry it with kitchen towels before blanching and dehydrating it.

How to Store Dehydrated Broccoli Chips

Store dehydrated broccoli chips in a labeled, airtight container in a cool, dry place.

With proper storage, dehydrated broccoli chips can last up to 2 years, but the texture and quality will start degrading after one year at room temperature. To extend its shelf life, use vacuum-sealing bags and store the bags in the freezer.

Patrick Anampiu

Patrick has a farming background and is a full-time food writer and recipe creator. His goal is to help you discover how fantastic it is to dehydrate and preserve food by sharing his knowledge. Outside of the kitchen, Patrick enjoys outdoor activities and exploring nature in all its beauty.

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