Kale is a robust, versatile, and delicious leafy green that’s packed with nutrients and an indispensable ingredient for healthy meals. However, its tough fibers and slightly bitter taste can be off-putting for some palates. That’s where blanching comes in! Blanching kale is an excellent way to soften it, remove excess bitterness and vibrant green color. Follow this step-by-step guide to blanch kale like a pro.

Step 1: Preparation

Start by washing your kale thoroughly to remove dirt or any lingering insects. Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, remove the thick stems from the leaves. You may choose to discard the stems or save them for other recipes.

Step 2: Boil Water

Fill a large pot with water, leaving enough room for the kale leaves to be submerged completely. Add a generous pinch of salt, which will help maintain the kale’s vibrant green color during blanching. Bring the water to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Prepare an Ice Bath

While you’re waiting for your water to boil, fill a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes. This ice bath will immediately cool down your kale leaves once they’re removed from boiling water, stopping the cooking process and preserving their texture.

Step 4: Blanch Kale Leaves

Once your water is boiling, carefully add your kale leaves in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pot. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to ensure even cooking by pushing down any floating leaves that are not fully submerged in the water.

Blanch kale leaves for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and youthful – this time frame is perfect for achieving tender yet crisp-tender leaves without overcooking them.

Step 5: Transfer Kale to Ice Bath

Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove your blanched kale leaves from the pot and immediately submerge them in the ice bath. Let the leaves immerse in the cold water for approximately 2 minutes—or until they are thoroughly chilled.

Step 6: Drain and Dry

Remove the kale leaves from the ice bath and gently shake off excess water. Lay them out on a clean kitchen towel or paper towel to dry. Alternatively, you can use a salad spinner for faster drying.

Step 7: Enjoy or Store

Now that you’ve blanched your kale, enjoy it right away in salads, soups, smoothies, pasta dishes, or your favourite meal. Alternatively, store it in an airtight container for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Bonus Tip: Blanch and Freeze

For long-term storage, consider blanching and freezing kale for future use. After thoroughly draining and drying your blanched kale leaves, place them in freezer bags or containers with a tight seal. By following this method, your kale will retain vibrant color and nutrition value for months to come.

In conclusion, blanching kale is an easy-to-master technique that results in tender, delicious greens perfect for your favorite recipes. Enjoy its delightful taste and plentiful health benefits by mastering this skill at home!