Kale is one of the most nutritious veggies you can eat. A member of the same family as broccoli and cabbage, it’s full of vitamin C, magnesium, iron, folate, and fibre. It’s also one of the most concentrated sources of antioxidants and is thought to help prevent some cancers. Kale is also thought to help lower cholesterol and balance oestrogen in the body. No wonder it’s fast becoming a favourite amongst health conscious people!
Kale has a strong, broccoli-like flavour, so it’s important to match it with other robust flavours. It’s also vital that you use it within 3-4 days of picking so that it tastes fresh. When kale starts to get a bit old, it starts to develop a sulphur-like smell and taste. So buy fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and use it straight away.
Here’s some simple recipe ideas to get you started:
Green smoothies
Kale goes beautifully with blueberries and banana, so add a few leaves to your smoothie, throw in some hemp or rice protein powder and some almond milk or coconut water. Yummo!
Pesto
Next time you make basil pesto, throw in a handful of kale. It helps to give the pesto a beautiful deep, green colour and is super nutritious because you are eating it raw.
Soups
Throw some chopped kale into your veggie soup with a couple of minutes to go, and take it off the heat once it’s just wilted. Perfect!
Chips
Toss your kale in a little olive oil and balsamic vinegar, and bake in an oven on a low heat until crispy. Or if you want to retain maximum nutrients, invest in a dehydrator and make your chips that way.
Coleslaw
Mix shredded kale with cabbage, green apple, carrot and your favourite salad dressing for a nutrient rich “kaleslaw.”
If you haven’t tried kale yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a bunch now and start experimenting!
Here at Byron Bay Detox Retreats we love our kale.