It’s a new year, and for a lot of people, that means ditching last year’s eating habits. But as most of us discover, diets can be tough to stick to – especially with so many holiday leftovers around the house.
Kale is a versatile superfood that can be used as a healthy addon to dishes or eaten as a snack on their own. There are several different types of kale, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Keep reading for four of the most common varieties and their ideal culinary uses.
Curly Kale
Best for: Chips & Cooking
This is the most common type of kale and is characterized by its ruffled, curly leaves that range in color from deep green to purplish. Curly kale has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor and a tougher texture than other types of kale. It is often used in salads, smoothies, and as a garnish. It can also be massaged with dressing to soften the leaves and make them more palatable in salads.
Tuscan Kale
Best for: Salads & Cooking
Also known as lacinato kale or dinosaur kale, Tuscan kale has dark blue-green leaves that are long and narrow with a bumpy texture. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and is tender when cooked. Tuscan kale is often used in salads, soups, and pasta dishes. It can also be roasted or sautéed as a side dish.
Baby Kale
Best for: Salads & Smoothies
As the name suggests, baby kale is a younger, smaller version of regular kale. It has tender, mild-flavored leaves and is often used in salads or as a garnish. It can also be sautéed or used as a topping for sandwiches and wraps.
Red Salad Kale
Best for: Salads, Soups, & Juicing
This type of kale has deep red or purple leaves and a slightly sweeter flavor than other types of kale. It is often used in salads and as a garnish but can also be cooked in the same way as other types of kale.
Whether you prefer the mild flavor of Tuscan kale or the slightly sweeter taste of red salad kale, there is a type of kale to suit every taste. Don’t be afraid to get creative and try adding kale to various dishes; you’d be surprised at how adding just a bit can make a world of difference in any diet plan.
back to blog homepage