Description
Enjoy the hearty texture and earthy flavour of our kale, perfect for sautéing, roasting, blending into smoothies, or adding to salads, ensuring a nutritious addition to any meal. Available in our Local Farm Shop in Bellaghy, Mid Ulster Area.
🥬 Kale: The Leafy Green Powerhouse
Kale is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family — the same clan as cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. It’s celebrated for its bold flavor, curly texture, and impressive health benefits. Here’s a breakdown:
🧬 Appearance & Varieties
- Leaves: Typically curly or ruffled, but can also be flat or feathered depending on the variety.
- Color: Deep green is most common, but some types are bluish-green or even purple.
- Stems: Tough and fibrous — usually removed before cooking or eating raw.
Popular varieties include:
| Variety | Description |
|---|---|
| Curly Kale | Tight, crinkled leaves and peppery taste |
| Lacinato (Dino) | Long, dark leaves with a mild flavor |
| Red Russian | Flat leaves with purple veins, sweet flavor |
🌿 Flavor Profile
- Earthy and slightly bitter when raw.
- Mild and nutty when cooked, especially after steaming or sautéing.
- Young leaves are more tender and mellow.
💪 Nutrition Highlights
- Rich in vitamins A, C, K
- Excellent source of fiber, iron, calcium, and antioxidants
- Low in calories — perfect for smoothies, soups, salads, and crisps
🍳 Ways to Use It
- Massage raw kale for salads to soften and reduce bitterness.
- Blend into green smoothies with fruits for a nutritional punch.
- Sauté with garlic and olive oil, or roast into crispy kale chips.
- Add to soups, stews, or grain bowls.
