John Myers
What is Kale and Why Massage it?
Kale is a leafy green vegetable that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its many health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and antioxidants. However, despite its nutritional value, kale can be tough and hard to digest, making it difficult to enjoy raw. This is where massaging comes in.
Massaging kale is the process of rubbing the leaves with your hands to break down the tough fibers and make it more tender and easier to eat. This simple technique can transform kale from a tough and bitter vegetable into a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.
What Are the Benefits of Massaging Kale?
Massaging kale not only makes it more palatable, but it also has several health benefits. By breaking down the tough fibers, massaging makes the nutrients in kale more easily digestible, allowing your body to absorb them more efficiently. It also helps to release enzymes that can reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall gut health.
In addition to its health benefits, massaging kale can also make it more versatile in the kitchen. Once massaged, kale can be used in a variety of salads, smoothies, and even cooked dishes, making it a great addition to any healthy diet.
How to Choose the Best Kale for Massaging
When choosing kale for massaging, look for fresh, crisp leaves that are a deep green color. Avoid kale that is wilted or yellow, as this can indicate that it is old or past its prime. You can use any variety of kale for massaging, but curly kale and lacinato kale are the most common.
Preparing Kale for Massage: Step by Step
- Wash the kale leaves thoroughly under cold running water.
- Remove the tough stems by holding the base of the stem and stripping the leaves off with your other hand.
- Tear or chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
How to Massage Kale Properly
To massage kale, simply place the torn or chopped leaves in a bowl and add a small amount of olive oil or lemon juice. Then, using your hands, massage the leaves for 2-3 minutes until they become tender and begin to wilt. You can also add salt or other seasonings to taste at this point.
Tips for Adding Flavor to Massaged Kale
To add more flavor to your massaged kale, try adding other ingredients such as garlic, ginger, or herbs like parsley or cilantro. You can also try mixing in other vegetables or fruits like carrots, beets, or apples.
Serving Suggestions for Massaged Kale
Massaged kale makes a great base for salads or as a side dish. You can also use it as a topping for pizza or as a filling for wraps and sandwiches. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy massaged kale.
Storing Massaged Kale for Later Use
If you have leftover massaged kale, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze massaged kale for later use by placing it in a freezer-safe container or bag and storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it out and use it as you would fresh massaged kale.
