Southeastern Grocers · 454g
Fresh Kale Greens
What it is
This is a bunch of fresh kale, a leafy green vegetable known for its sturdy texture and robust flavor. It is a member of the cabbage family and is often sold with its stems and thick leaves intact. Kale is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of culinary applications, offering a slightly bitter taste that mellows with cooking.
How people cook with it
Kale is a popular choice for adding a healthy and flavorful boost to meals. It can be prepared in numerous ways, from raw applications to slow-cooked dishes.
- Added to smoothies
- Massaged for salads
- Sautéed with garlic
- Baked into chips
Before using, it is best to wash the kale thoroughly to remove any dirt. You can remove the tough central stems by folding the leaves in half and slicing along the stem. For salads, massaging the leaves with a little oil and acid can tenderize them. Kale can also be chopped and added to soups, stews, or pasta dishes, where it will soften and integrate into the flavors. For a crispy snack, bake kale leaves with a drizzle of oil until they are brittle.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to spinach, kale has a much tougher texture and a more pronounced, slightly bitter flavor profile. Its sturdy leaves hold up well to longer cooking times, making it ideal for dishes where a more substantial green is desired. Spinach tends to wilt more quickly and has a milder taste.
Who it is for
Home cooks looking to incorporate more leafy greens into their diet will find kale to be a valuable addition to their kitchen.
How to keep the rest
To keep the rest of your kale fresh, store it unwashed in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. It is best to use it within a week of purchase to enjoy its optimal texture and flavor. Avoid storing it near fruits that produce ethylene gas, as this can cause it to spoil faster.