What is the difference between kale and dinosaur kale?
Kale is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family, which also includes collard greens, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.
Dinosaur kale, also known as lacinato kale or Tuscan kale, is a type of kale that has long, flat, blue-green leaves with a pebbled texture.
Here are some differences between them:
Appearance
- Kale has curly leaves and their edges may be frilly and ruffled.
- Dinosaur kale has long flat leaves with a pebbled texture which makes it appear wrinkly in comparison to the smooth surface of other kales.
Taste
- Kale tastes bitter when raw but gets sweeter after cooking.
- Dinosaur Kale tastes sweeter than Kale.
Nutrition
- Dinosaur Kale contains more beta-carotene than regular Kale which helps improve skin health.
- Kale contains more vitamin C than dinosaur kale
In general, both kinds of kale are good for you and can be enjoyed cooked or raw.
However, dinosaur kale’s unique wrinkled appearance and mellow flavor make it more suitable for some recipes compared to curly kale.
What is dinosaur kale good for?
Dinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato kale, is a superfood that is packed with nutrients and has a number of health benefits.
Here are some of the benefits of consuming dinosaur kale:
High in Nutrients
Dinosaur kale is low in calories and high in nutrients.
It is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium, iron, and potassium.
It also contains antioxidants that protect against free radicals.
Heart Health
Eating dinosaur kale may help to improve heart health.
The high levels of potassium in dinosaur kale can help to lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium.
Additionally, the fiber in kale can help to lower cholesterol levels.
Digestive Health
The fiber in dinosaur kale can promote digestive health by preventing constipation and keeping the digestive tract moving.
Eating foods that are high in fiber can also reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Cancer Prevention
Dinosaur kale contains compounds called glucosinolates, which have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
These compounds are believed to stimulate enzymes that detoxify carcinogens and reduce oxidative stress.
Blood Sugar Control
Research suggests that incorporating dinosaur kale into your diet may help to regulate blood sugar levels.
The fiber content in this superfood slows down the absorption of carbohydrates into the bloodstream, which can prevent spikes in blood sugar levels.
Overall, incorporating dinosaur kale into your diet can provide numerous health benefits.
Whether you eat it raw or cooked, this superfood is a great addition to any meal plan.
However, if you have a thyroid condition or are taking blood thinners, it’s important to speak with your doctor before consuming large amounts of raw or cooked kale as it may interfere with medication absorption.
What Kind of Kale is Best to Eat Raw?
Kale is a nutrient powerhouse and can be enjoyed in many forms – cooked, baked, blended into smoothies or juices, or eaten raw as part of salads.
When it comes to eating kale raw, not all types are created equal.
1. Dinosaur Kale
Dinosaur kale, also known as lacinato kale or Tuscan kale, is the best type of kale to eat raw.
Its long leaves have a more delicate texture and milder flavor compared to other types of kale.
2. Red Kale
3. Green Curly Kale
This is the most commonly found type of kale.
It has a tougher texture that may require some massaging before eating if you intend to have it raw.
- Tip: When choosing curly green kale look for smaller leaves as they will be more tender and less bitter.
4. Russian Kale
Russian kale has a similar texture to green curly kale but with broader leaves that are flat rather than ruffled.
While it is an excellent choice for cooking, its fibrous nature makes it tough when eaten raw.
5. Ornamental Kale
This type of kale is often used for decorative purposes due to the bright color variations on the leaves.
However, ornamental kales can be eaten raw in salads too!
If you want to add some great nutritional value to your diet while keeping it fresh and crunchy, choose dinosaur kale or another tender variety such as red kale for best results when making raw salad.
What does dinosaur kale taste like?
Dinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato kale, has a distinct flavor that sets it apart from other varieties of kale.
Here are some subheadings that will help to describe its unique taste:
Bitterness level
The bitterness level of dinosaur kale is moderate compared to other types of kale.
Its taste can be described as slightly sweet with a hint of bitterness.
Texture
Dinosaur kale has a chewy and hearty texture that holds up well in salads and soups.
It’s not as delicate as baby kale and can add some density to your dishes.
Earthy undertones
The earthiness in dinosaur kale’s flavor profile is often compared to the taste of broccoli rabe.
The flavor can also have a nutty undertone that pairs well with citrus-based dressings or salty ingredients like cheese or anchovies.
When choosing to eat dinosaur kale raw, it’s important to know that the texture and bitterness level may vary depending on the type of preparation used.
For example, massaging dinosaur kale with lemon juice and salt can help soften its leaves and reduce some of the bitterness.
In conclusion, while not everyone may enjoy the taste of this green leafy vegetable, it’s certainly worth giving dinosaur kale a try if you’re looking for a nutritious salad base or soup ingredient.
Can all types of kale be eaten raw?
Kale has gained immense popularity as a superfood, and for good reason.
It is loaded with nutrients such as Vitamin A, C, K, folate, and calcium.
It is also low in calories and high in fiber.
But can all types of kale be consumed raw?
Types of kale
The most common types of kale are curly kale, Tuscan kale (also known as Lacinato or dinosaur kale), and red kale.
Curly kale is the most widely available type of kale which is easily found in supermarkets.
Best type of kale to eat raw
All types of kale can be consumed raw.
However, some varieties are better suited for eating raw than others.
Dinosaur or Tuscan Kale has a more tender texture and mild flavor which makes it perfect for salads as it doesn’t need to be cooked or massaged before eating like curly or red leaf kales.
How to prepare other types of Kale for Raw consumption
If you want to consume other varieties like curly or red leaf kales raw, it’s essential to cut out the tough rib running down the middle before using them in salads or smoothies.
This will improve their palatability while still retaining their nutrient profile.
Conclusion
In summary, all types of kale can be consumed raw but some varieties are more suited than others due to texture and flavor profiles.
If you plan on using other varieties apart from Dinosaur/Tuscan Kale for a salad or smoothie, make sure to remove any tough center ribs beforehand.
Is Dinosaur Kale a Superfood?
Dinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato kale or Tuscan kale, has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits.
But is it really a superfood?
What Makes a Food a Superfood?
Superfoods are foods that are particularly nutrient-dense and provide numerous health benefits.
They are often rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds that can help fight off disease and promote overall health.
The Nutritional Benefits of Dinosaur Kale
Dinosaur kale is an excellent source of many important nutrients.
For example:
- Vitamin A: Dinosaur kale is rich in vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy vision and immune function.
- Vitamin C: One cup of dinosaur kale contains more vitamin C than an orange.
- Vitamin C is essential for skin health, wound healing, and protecting the body against free radicals.
- Vitamin K: Dinosaur kale is also rich in vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health.
- Calcium: Kale is high in calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
The Health Benefits of Eating Dinosaur Kale
Eating dinosaur kale regularly may have numerous health benefits.
Some potential benefits include:
- Reduced risk of heart disease: The nutrients found in dinosaur kale may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body, both of which can contribute to heart disease.
- Cancer prevention: Many of the compounds found in dinosaur kale have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
- Better digestion: The fiber found in dinosaur kale can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.
Conclusion
Dinosaur kale definitely deserves its superfood status.
Its impressive nutrient profile and numerous health benefits make it an excellent addition to any diet.
Just be sure to clean it properly before eating it raw or using it in a salad!
How do you cut dinosaur kale for salad?
Dinosaur kale, also known as lacinato kale or Tuscan kale, is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients.
It makes an excellent base for salads due to its firm texture and mild flavor.
Here are some tips for cutting dinosaur kale for your next salad:
Cleaning the Kale
Before you start cutting the dinosaur kale, it’s important to clean it properly to remove any dirt or debris on the leaves.
Rinse the leaves under cold running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Removing the Stems
The stems of dinosaur kale can be tough and fibrous, which makes them difficult to chew.
To remove them, hold the leaf with one hand and use a sharp knife to cut along both sides of the stem, separating it from the leaf.
Discard the stems and keep the leaves.
Cutting into Bite-sized Pieces
Once you have removed the stems, stack a few of the leaves on top of each other and roll them tightly into a cylinder shape.
Use a sharp knife to slice across the rolled-up bundle into thin ribbons.
Massaging Your Kale
While not necessary, some people prefer to massage their dinosaur kale before adding it to their salad to make it less tough and easier to chew.
Simply place your chopped kale in a bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice (or any other dressing you prefer) and use your hands to gently massage it for a few minutes until it becomes slightly softer.
Incorporating into Your Salad
Now that you have your cut up and massaged dinosaur kale ready, you can use it as a base for your salad or combine it with other greens such as spinach or arugula.
Add some toppings like nuts, seeds, cheese or fruit along with your favorite dressing for a delicious and healthy meal.
In conclusion, cutting dinosaur kale for salad is pretty simple once you get rid of its tough stems and slice its leaves thinly into bite-sized pieces.
With its many health benefits, including being high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, incorporating this superfood into your diet has never been easier!
Do you need to massage dinosaur kale?
Dinosaur kale is a great addition to any salad, but it can be tough to chew if it’s not prepared properly.
One common technique used for preparing kale, including dinosaur kale, is massaging the leaves.
Why massage kale?
The reason for massaging kale is to break down the fibrous structure of the leaves and make them easier to digest.
Massaging also helps to tenderize the leaves and makes them more palatable.
How to massage dinosaur kale
- Remove the stems from the dinosaur kale leaves and tear them into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the pieces into a large mixing bowl.
- Add a small amount of olive oil or lemon juice (optional) and use your hands to rub each piece of kale for about two minutes.
Can you skip massaging dinosaur kale?
If you are short on time or don’t want to massage your dinosaur kale, there are other ways to prepare it for raw consumption.
Chopping or finely slicing the leaves can help break down some of the fibrous structure, making it easier to chew.
Is massaged dinosaur kale healthier than unmassaged?
The nutritional value of dinosaur kale does not change when massaged or unmassaged, so you can choose whichever method you prefer.
In summary, while it is not necessary to massage your dinosaur kale before eating it raw, doing so will make it more tender and easier to chew.
However, if you’re short on time or prefer another method such as chopping or finely slicing your greens instead then that works just fine too!
Is Dinosaur Kale a Superfood?
Before we dive into this question, let’s define what a superfood is.
A superfood is a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being.
What Makes Dinosaur Kale a Superfood?
Dinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato kale, is considered a superfood because it is packed with nutrients that are essential for a healthy diet.
Here are some of the nutrients found in dinosaur kale:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Folate
- Potassium
- Iron
In addition to these vitamins and minerals, dinosaur kale also contains antioxidants that can help boost the immune system and fight inflammation in the body.
How to Incorporate Dinosaur Kale into Your Diet
Dinosaur kale can be eaten raw or cooked.
It has a sweeter and milder flavor compared to other types of kale, which makes it great for salads or smoothies.
To make sure you get all the nutrients from dinosaur kale, it’s important to consume it regularly as part of a balanced diet.
Cautions When Consuming Raw Dinosaur Kale
Kale can contain high levels of oxalates, which can interfere with the absorption of calcium in the body.
Also, raw kale may be difficult for some people to digest.
If you have any digestive issues, it’s recommended that you cook your dinosaur kale lightly before consuming it.
In Conclusion
Dinosaur kale is indeed a superfood due to its high nutrient content and antioxidant properties.
Whether eaten raw or cooked, this dark leafy green should definitely be part of your healthy diet.
How do you clean dinosaur kale?
Dinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato or Tuscan kale, is a delicious and nutritious leafy green that has become increasingly popular in recent years.
Before you can enjoy its many health benefits, however, it’s important to properly clean and prepare the leaves.
Here’s how:
Step 1: Fill a large bowl with cold water
Start by filling a large bowl with cold water.
Make sure that the bowl is big enough to accommodate all of your dinosaur kale leaves without overcrowding them.
Step 2: Add the kale leaves to the water
Add the dinosaur kale leaves to the bowl of water, making sure that they are fully submerged.
Swish them around gently with your hands to loosen any dirt or debris that may be stuck to them.
Step 3: Let the kale soak for 10-15 minutes
Allow the kale leaves to soak in the water for at least 10-15 minutes.
This will help to loosen any remaining dirt, as well as remove any pesticides or other chemicals that may have been used in their cultivation.
Step 4: Rinse and repeat
After letting the leaves soak, remove them from the bowl and rinse them thoroughly under cool running water.
Repeat this process two or three times until all traces of dirt and debris have been removed.
Step 5: Dry the kale leaves
To dry your cleaned dinosaur kale leaves, shake off any excess water and then lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
Pat them dry gently with another towel or paper towel until they are completely dry.
Now that your dinosaur kale is clean and dry, you can use it in salads, sautés, smoothies, and more!
Who should not eat raw kale?
Kale is a highly nutritious vegetable that has gained popularity in recent years due to its ability to provide numerous health benefits.
However, not everyone can enjoy the benefits of eating raw kale.
Below are some groups of people who should avoid eating raw kale:
Pregnant women
Pregnant women should be cautious when consuming kale, especially in large amounts due to its high content of vitamin K.
Consuming large amounts of vitamin K can interfere with blood-thinning medications, which is harmful during pregnancy.
Thyroid patients
Kale contains goitrogens that can interfere with the function of the thyroid gland, causing an enlarged thyroid or goiter in some people.
Although cooking reduces the levels of goitrogens, it is best for individuals with thyroid problems to consult their physician before consuming any form of kale.
Individuals taking blood thinners
Kale contains a high amount of vitamin K that helps blood clotting in the body.
Therefore, individuals taking anticoagulants or blood thinners such as warfarin should avoid consuming large amounts of raw kale as it may interfere with their medications and increase their risk for bleeding.
Individuals with sensitive digestive systems
Raw kale may be difficult for some individuals to digest due to its high fiber content.
Individuals with sensitive digestive systems such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may experience gas, bloating, and cramping after eating raw kale.
In conclusion, while raw kale provides an array of health benefits for many people, it is essential to consider certain groups who should limit their intake or avoid it altogether.
If you fall into any of these categories and still want to consume kale, consider lightly steaming it before eating.
Is it healthier to eat kale raw or cooked?
Nutritional Benefits of Raw Kale
Raw kale is a great source of nutrients and antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, and beta-carotene.
Eating kale raw preserves these nutrients and may provide greater health benefits.
Nutritional Benefits of Cooked Kale
Cooking kale can break down the tough fibers in the leaves, making it easier for our bodies to access certain nutrients like calcium.
However, some nutrients can be lost during the cooking process.
Which is Better?
Ultimately, both raw and cooked kale have their own unique benefits.
For example, some studies have shown that eating raw kale can help lower cholesterol levels while others suggest that steamed kale may be better at improving blood glucose control.
If you’re looking to maximize the nutritional benefits of kale in your diet, it’s recommended to consume both raw and cooked versions of this leafy green vegetable.
Additionally, consider mixing up your preparation methods – try adding raw kale to salads or smoothies while also sauteeing or roasting some for a delicious side dish.
It’s also important to note that individuals with thyroid issues should consult with their medical provider before consuming large amounts of raw kale as it contains goitrogens which can affect thyroid function.
What part of kale is not edible?
Kale Stems
Kale stems are tough and fibrous, which makes them difficult to chew and digest.
Some people prefer to remove kale stems entirely before cooking or consuming the leaves.
Kale Flowers
Kale flowers, also known as kale raab or kale sprouts, are the small flowering buds that appear on mature kale plants.
While they are edible, they have a bitter taste and can be tough to chew if not cooked properly.
Kale Seeds
While you can technically eat the seeds from a kale plant, they are usually discarded because of their small size and hard texture.
In summary, while all parts of a kale plant are technically edible, the stems and flowers should be consumed with caution due to their texture and taste.
The leaves of the plant are the most commonly consumed part for both raw and cooked dishes.
Can you eat kale raw like a salad?
Kale is a versatile and healthy leafy green that can be eaten cooked or raw.
In fact, eating raw kale in salads is a popular way to consume this nutritious vegetable.
But is all kale suitable for eating raw?
What kind of kale is best to eat raw?
Not all types of kale are suited for eating raw.
Dinosaur kale, also known as Lacinato or Tuscan kale, has a milder flavor and is less tough than other varieties, making it an excellent choice for salads.
What does dinosaur kale taste like?
Dinosaur kale has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of earthiness.
It’s not bitter like some other types of kale and has a tender texture when prepared properly.
Can all types of kale be eaten raw?
While most varieties of kale can be eaten raw in salads, curly kale may benefit from being massaged with some salt or an acid like lemon juice to help break down its tough fibers.
How do you cut dinosaur kale for salad?
To prepare dinosaur kale for salad, remove the tough stem by holding the base of the stem with one hand and sliding the other hand along the stem to strip off the leaves.
Stack several leaves together and roll them tightly before slicing them thinly into ribbons.
Do you need to massage dinosaur kale?
You don’t necessarily need to massage dinosaur kale, but doing so can help improve its texture by breaking down some of its fibers.
To massage your prepped dinosaur kale, sprinkle it with some salt and use your hands to rub it until it wilts slightly.
Is it healthier to eat Kale raw or cooked?
Eating both cooked and raw Kale provides health benefits.
Eating Raw Kale might seem healthier because cooking it leads to loss of some vitamins such as Vitamin C among others.
So if you choose this route make sure that you are not consuming too much Vitamin K which may cause blood clots in individuals who have clotting disorders such as hemophilia
How do you clean dinosaur Kale?
Kale’s leaves grow close together which makes cleaning thoroughly sometimes difficult .
So begin by filling a large bowl with cold water enough that will fit my prepped leaves.
Tossing them in water helps get rid of dirt that might have stuck between them .
Repeat this process at least twice until your leaves are perfectly cleaned.
Who should not eat raw Kale ?
Kale is generally considered safe when consumed in moderation especially when cooked but people on medications such as blood thinners should consult their doctor before taking large amounts because the vitam k present interferes with their medication .
Also, individuals experiencing Hypothyroidism should avoid consuming too much Raw Kale as it could interfere with iodine uptake which could lead worsening hypothyroid symptoms
What part of Kale isn’t edible ?
The stems running through each leaf are veins so they aren’t exactly edible but they can be cooked down slow and low until they become tender or tossed into soups where they can add more Fiber contents
In conclusion ,not only can you eat Dinosaur Kale like salad ,it’s actually one of the better ways if you want maximum nutrition value per bite however Its always important not consume any food item whether cooked nor uncooked excessively.
Equipment
- 1 Pot
Ingredients
- 6 oz bacon chopped
- 1 lb Italian Sausage The “Hot” variety
- 1 medium head garlic 10 large cloves, peeled and minced or pressed
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 6 cups chicken broth/stock (48 oz)
- 4 cups water (32 oz)
- 5 medium russet potatoes peeled and chopped into 1/4″ thick pieces
- 10 g Dinosaur Kale leaves stripped and chopped (6 cups)
- 1 cup whipping cream
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese to serve optional
Instructions
- Chop the bacon, then cook it in a big saucepan or dutch oven (5.5 quarts) over medium-high heat until it is browned (5-7 mins). While leaving about 1 Tbsp of oil in the pot, remove the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels and spoon out any excess oil.
- Italian sausage should be added, broken up with a spatula, and cooked through (5 min). Drag to a plate covered with paper towels.
- Add onion, diced finely, to the pot. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute.
- Bring to a boil after adding 4 cups of water and 6 cups of broth. Add the potato slices and simmer for an additional 13 to 14 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Add chopped kale and cooked sausage when the potatoes are almost done cooking, and then bring everything to a gentle boil.
- Add 1 cup of cream and heat through. Remove from heat after adding salt and black pepper to taste. Add grated parmesan and bacon as a garnish.
Video
Nutrition
My blog is all about creating delicious meals with ingredients that are easy to find in your local grocery store. I’m passionate about making yummy meals that I can share with my friends and family.