Kale is a powerhouse of nutrients and an essential ingredient in many dishes, but sometimes it can be a bit tough and bitter. With these simple tips, you can make kale a staple in your kitchen and enjoy it at its best. From storing it fresh to making it tender, here’s how to get the most out of your kale.

1. Store Kale Like a Pro

To keep your kale fresh for longer, wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and place them in a perforated bag in the fridge. This method helps maintain hydration and crispness, allowing your kale to last up to a week. It’s the best way to prevent wilting and keep your kale looking fresh when you’re ready to use it.

2. Revive Wilted Kale

If your kale has lost its crunch, don’t throw it away! You can easily restore its freshness by soaking the leaves in a bowl of ice water for 5-10 minutes. This trick revives the kale, making it crisp again—perfect for adding a fresh bite to your salads and dishes.

3. Massage Kale for Easy Chewing

Kale can sometimes be tough and difficult to chew, but a little massaging can make all the difference. Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil to the leaves, then massage them for 2-3 minutes. This softens the texture, reduces bitterness, and makes it more palatable, especially for salads.

4. De-Stem Like a Chef

Preparing kale can be a time-consuming task, but removing the stems doesn’t have to be hard. Hold the stem with one hand, pinch the leaves at the base, and pull them off in one smooth motion. This simple trick makes de-stemming quick and easy, so you can prep your kale in seconds.

5. Freeze for Convenience

If you want to make kale last even longer or have it on hand for smoothies or cooking, freezing it is a great option. Blanch the kale briefly, pat it dry, and store it in an airtight bag in the freezer. Freezing helps preserve the nutrients and ensures you have fresh kale ready when you need it.

6. Enhance the Flavor

If you’re looking to mellow out kale’s natural bitterness, try sprinkling a pinch of salt on raw kale. Let it sit for a few minutes, and you’ll notice the bitterness softens, making it more enjoyable in salads or bowls. It’s a simple way to enhance the flavour and make kale more versatile.

With these tips, you can easily make kale a regular part of your meals. Whether you’re tossing it into a salad, blending it into a smoothie, or cooking it into a savoury dish, you’ll have all the tools to enjoy kale at its best.

Want more Kale tips? Check out this article on how identify which type of kale you’re buying.

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