Kale is a leafy green vegetable that has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. It is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to any diet. While there are many ways to prepare kale, one method that adds a unique and smoky flavor is smoking.
What is the best way to prepare kale?
When it comes to preparing kale, blanching is often recommended as the best method. Blanching involves briefly cooking the kale in boiling salted water and then immediately placing it in ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. This technique softens the tough texture of kale and reduces its bitterness. Additionally, blanching helps to preserve the green color of kale, ensuring that it remains vibrant even after further cooking.
It is important to note that blanching kale may result in the loss of some vitamins. However, the milder flavor and improved texture may encourage you to consume more kale, ultimately providing you with more overall nutrients than if you were to avoid it altogether.
Does cooking kale make it taste better?
Yes, cooking kale can significantly enhance its taste. Raw kale has a slightly bitter and tough texture, which can be off-putting for some people. However, when kale is cooked, its flavor becomes more mellow, and the texture becomes tender. Cooking kale also allows it to absorb other flavors, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in various dishes.
What part of kale do you eat?
When preparing kale, it is important to remove the thick stems, as they can be tough and stringy. To do this, simply hold the thick end of the stem in one hand and pull up hard to strip off the leaf. Repeat this process until all the leaves have been removed. The stems can then be finely chopped into small pieces and cooked alongside the rest of the leaf. This reduces waste and ensures that the stems are perfectly edible.
The stems can be sautéed, boiled, or steamed, just like the rest of the leaf. They add a slightly different texture and flavor to dishes, making them a valuable addition to your kale recipes.
Smoked Kale Recipe: Kale Barleyotto
If you're looking to try a unique and flavorful kale dish, consider making a smoked kale barleyotto. This recipe combines the smokiness of the kale with the nutty flavor of barley, resulting in a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 glug extra-virgin olive oil
- 80g green leek tops, washed and finely sliced
- 80g onion, finely sliced
- 1 garlic clove, peeled and crushed
- 200g pot barley
- ½ unwaxed lemon, zested and juiced
- 2cm piece dried kelp (optional)
- 200ml white wine
- 200g kale
- Breadcrumbs, to serve
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-based pan over medium-low heat. Sweat the leek tops, onion, and garlic for five minutes without coloring.
- Add the barley, half of the lemon zest, and the dried kelp (if using). Cook for a minute, stirring continuously.
- Pour in the white wine and bring to a boil. Add enough boiling water to cover the barley and simmer gently, stirring regularly, until all the liquid has been absorbed. This process takes approximately 45 minutes.
- While the barley is cooking, bring a separate pan of water to a boil. Wash the kale and strip the leaves off the stalks. Finely shred the greens and cut the stalks into 5mm pieces.
- Boil the kale for two minutes, then drain, reserving the cooking water.
- Blend the kale to a puree, adding a little cooking water to loosen if necessary.
- Stir the kale puree into the cooked barley and season well with salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste.
- Spoon the smoked kale barleyotto into bowls and garnish with the remaining lemon zest and breadcrumbs.
This smoked kale barleyotto is not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate more kale into your diet. The smoky flavor adds depth to the dish, making it a satisfying and wholesome meal option.
Smoked kale is a fantastic way to elevate the flavor of this nutritious leafy green vegetable. Whether you choose to blanch, sauté, steam, or smoke kale, it is important to experiment with different cooking methods to find the one that suits your taste preferences. By incorporating kale into your diet, you can enjoy its numerous health benefits while indulging in delicious and flavorful dishes.
Can I smoke kale without blanching it first?
While it is possible to smoke kale without blanching it first, blanching helps to soften the texture and reduce bitterness. If you prefer a milder flavor and tender texture, it is recommended to blanch the kale before smoking.
Can I use smoked kale in salads?
Yes, you can certainly use smoked kale in salads. The smoky flavor adds a unique twist to traditional salad recipes. However, keep in mind that smoked kale may have a stronger flavor compared to raw or blanched kale, so adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
Can I freeze smoked kale?
Yes, you can freeze smoked kale. After smoking, allow the kale to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen smoked kale can be stored for up to six months. Thaw before using in recipes.
Can I smoke kale in a regular oven?
Yes, you can smoke kale in a regular oven. Place the kale on a baking sheet and bake at a low temperature (around 200°F) for approximately 30 minutes, or until the kale becomes crispy and slightly charred. Keep an eye on it to prevent it from burning.
If you want to know other articles similar to Delicious smoked kale: a nutritious option you can visit the Cooking category.
Related Articles