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How to cook kale

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How to cook kale

Serves 4 1h 55 min
The ever-versatile kale is a real healthy beauty and a perfect side for almost any meal.

Cook's notes

Kale goes well with similar things to cabbage: chilli, garlic, caraway and pork, particularly chorizo. Add to soups or stews, it's also good in risottos or pasta. Try mixing cooked kale with mashed potato as a side dish or pie topping.

Ingredients

  • Kale

Method

Prep time: 15 min
Cooking time: 1h 40 min

Storage

  • Step 1

    Store in the fridge in a plastic bag to retain moisture.

Steam or boil

  • Step 1

    Steam or boil it for 3-5 mins, depending on the variety (red russian kale cooks quickest, black kale takes the longest).

  • Step 2

    Separate the leaves from any tough stems, either cook them for a min or two longer (Red Russian), or if they are very bitter (curly or black kale), discard the stalks.

Braising

  • Step 1

    Add kale to a pan with a knob of butter, a little water, grated nutmeg and lemon juice, or fry a little onion and garlic in oil, add chilli, kale, and a little water or stock.

  • Step 2

    Cook for about 5 mins or so, until tender. Stir in cooked lentils or beans if you like.