Kale is a form cabbage. Kale is very high in beta carotene, vitamin k, vitamin C, lutein, zeaxanthin, and reasonably rich in calcium. Kale, as with broccoli contains sulforaphane (particularly when chopped or minced), a chemical with potent anti-cancer properties. How awesome is that?!
Boiling decreases the level of sulforaphane; however, steaming or stir frying does not result in significant loss. Fresh and organic is the best way to eat Kale. Kale is also a source of indole-3-carbinol, a chemical which boosts DNA repair in cells and appears to block the growth of cancer cells. (DID YOU READ THAT???!!! Appears to BLOCK the growth of cancer cells!!!! I'M IN!!!!!!) Kale is also a good source of carotenoids. And Kale is also an anti-inflammatory and does wonders for your skin.
Tender kale greens can provide an intense addition to salads, particularly when combined with other strongly flavored ingredients such as dry-roasted peanuts, tamari-roasted almonds, red pepper flakes, or an Asian-style dressing.
Kale chips are something I first saw on Pinterest and I decided to give them a go. Not bad. I munch on a few throughout the day.
Baked Kale Chips
Organic Kale
Wash and dry kale
Remove the stems from the Kale, the stems do not bake well
Rip into chip sized pieces
Spray organic olive oil or organic coconut oil over the kale pieces
Sprinkle with sea salt or whatever seasonings you like
Bake at 300 degrees for 15 minutes
Remove from oven and enjoy.
I baked a small batch and eat a few pieces every day. I figure I HAVE to figure out some way to get this super food into my diet!!
Another idea, Kale Smoothie.
If you are used to using organic spinach in your smoothie, keep in mind kale has a stronger flavor than spinach does, so use a little less kale. This recipe had to pass the test, my 2 year old loved it! :-)
Kale Smoothie
Kale (to your taste, I used 3 good sized pieces)
1/2-1 frozen banana
Hand full of frozen blueberries
1 tbsp organic flax seed oil
Protein powder of your choice (if using whey, make sure it is from organic grass fed cows)
Organic rice milk or organic soy milk
Depending on your taste buds you can add some honey, agave or dried apricot for a sweeter taste
Ice cubes if you are not using frozen fruits
I use a bullet blender and blend until smooth. And honestly Kale, like spinach can be used in a 100 different smoothie recipes. Just use your imagination and try different fruits and vegetables. This is sometimes what I have for lunch. Enjoy!!
If you have other recipes for smoothies or any food dish with spinach or kale please comment below so they can be shared with others. As I continue doing my own research and trials in the kitchen with kale I will post as I find "post worthy" recipes. :-) We have to find ways to include this amazing food into our lives. Thanks!
*Baked Kale recipe adapted from Delighted Momma blog.
*Smoothie idea from my beautiful friend Lynda Fassa.
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