Signature Farms · 94 g
Lacinato Tuscan Kale
What it is
Lacinato Tuscan Kale, also known as dinosaur kale, is a variety of kale with dark, bumpy, blue-green leaves. It has a slightly sweeter and more tender texture compared to other types of kale. This leafy green is a versatile ingredient, often found in grocery stores in bunches or pre-chopped bags. Its sturdy leaves hold up well to cooking, making it a popular choice for various dishes.
How people cook with it
This kale is excellent for both raw and cooked applications in the kitchen.
- Added to salads
- Sautéed with garlic
- Blended into smoothies
- Baked into chips
To prepare Lacinato kale, start by washing the leaves thoroughly. You can remove the tough central rib by folding the leaf in half and slicing it away. For salads, chop the leaves finely and massage them with a little dressing to tenderize them. When cooking, it can be sautéed with olive oil and garlic until wilted, or added to soups, stews, and pasta dishes during the last few minutes of cooking. It also bakes well into crispy kale chips.
How it differs from similar foods
Lacinato kale is distinct from curly kale due to its flatter, more elongated leaves and a smoother, less ruffled texture. It tends to be less bitter and has a slightly sweeter flavor profile, making it more approachable for those new to kale.
How to keep the rest
To keep the remaining kale fresh, wrap the unwashed bunch loosely in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for several days when stored this way.