Oh, beautiful kale. How I love you.
To say kale is healthy is an understatement. This leafy and delicious green is a god amongst veggies and a must-add to your diet.
Here’s the lowdown from WebMD:
- One cup of kale contains:
- 33 calories
- 9% of daily value of calcium
- 206% of vitamin A
- 134% of vitamin C
- 684% of vitamin K
- Good source of potassium, iron, and phosphorous
- Lots of carotenoids and flavonoids
- High in fiber
Um… can you say, WOW?!
All these minerals and vitamins (especially vitamin K) mean that kale is jam-packed full of anti-cancer health benefits. Research shows that kale provides the antioxidants that reduce your chance of developing cancer (including breast and prostate cancer) later in life. Also, kale is full of anti-inflammatory nutrients and can help lower high cholesterol and lower your chance of developing heart disease. Note: the cardiovascular results are best seen in consuming raw kale, not steamed.
(Kale is a total overachiever.)
So what does it taste like? I would describe it as a very leafy, earthy flavor. It is a mild, somewhat bitter flavor with a texture similar to spinach. I’m going to be honest—it’s not for everyone. But it’s easy to work with and there is the potential for great flavors with different spices.
When adding kale to your diet, keep an eye out for kale with the richest and deepest colors and firm leaves (this means the kale has a richer flavor and is fresher).
Check out a list of some of the most delicious kale recipes ever.
(I personally looooove Super Summer Kale Salad and Cheesy Kale Chips).
Peace, love, and health,
Image Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/wordridden/8030060269/