Preparing Russian Red: strip out the mature stems by holding the lower leaf base up in one hand and pull the stem downward with the other. Rinse the leaf pieces.
Blanch Russian Red in salted water, drain then sauté. Sauté this kale in olive or nut oil, butter, bacon, or pancetta. Season with olives, garlic, chilli, cumin, caraway, fennel, anise, or toasted sesame oil. If you want a stronger flavor, braise Russian Red in stock and cook until tender. Red Russian is a heartier kale unlike it's cousin curly kale.
5-Minute Kale
Ingredients:
1 pound kale
Mediterranean Dressing
2 tsp lemon juice
1 medium clove garlic, pressed
1 TBs extra virgin olive oil
salt & black pepper to taste
Directions:
Chop garlic.
Fill bottom of steamer with 2 inches of water and bring to boil.
While water is coming to a boil, slice kale leaves into 1/2-inch slices, and cut again crosswise. Cut stems into 1/4-inch slices. When water comes to a boil add kale to steamer basket and cover. Steam for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a bowl and toss with Mediterranean Dressing (see below).
Mediterranean Dressing does not have to be made separately. For the best flavor it is best to toss with dressing while kale is still hot.
Mediterranean Dressing
This easy-to-prepare dressing is great for any occasion. Just toss your salad with the ingredients and enjoy! It is not necessary to mix the ingredients of the dressing separately before using.
Prep and Cook Time: 1 minute
Ingredients:
3 TBS extra virgin olive oil
1 TBS fresh lemon juice
1 clove garlic, minced
sea salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Toss your favorite salad with the ingredients and serve. Serves 2
Super Energy Kale Soup
This quick and easy version of potato kale soup has extra vegetables for more flavor and nutrition and takes little time to prepare.
Prep and Cook Time: Prep and cooking time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
1 medium onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
5 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 medium carrot diced about ¼ inch cubes (about 1 cup)
1 cup diced celery
2 red potatoes, diced into ½ inch cubes
3 cups kale, rinsed, stems removed, and chopped very fine
2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp dried sage
salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Chop garlic and onions and let sit for 5 minutes to bring out their hidden health benefits.
Heat 1 TBS broth in a medium soup pot.
Healthy Sauté onion in broth over medium heat for about 5 minutes stirring frequently.
Add garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.
Add broth, carrots celery, and bring to a boil on high heat.
Once it comes to a boil reduce heat to a simmer and continue to cook for another 5 minutes. Add potatoes and kale and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 more minutes.
Add rest of ingredients and cook another 5 minutes. If you want to simmer for a longer time for extra flavor and richness, you may need to add a little more broth.
Serves 4
