Kale 'Lacinato' aka Dinosaur
Lacinato kale, also known as dinosaur kale, Tuscan kale, or black kale, is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family. It is renowned for its long, narrow, and wrinkled leaves that resemble the skin of a dinosaur, hence the nickname. Lacinato kale has a deep, earthy flavor with a slightly sweet undertone, making it a versatile and nutritious addition to various culinary dishes. Its dark green, textured leaves are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium and potassium, contributing to its reputation as a nutrient-dense superfood.
One of the distinctive characteristics of lacinato kale is its hearty and robust texture, which stands up well to cooking methods like sautéing, roasting, and braising. Unlike some other varieties of kale, lacinato kale maintains its firmness and doesn't become overly tough when cooked. This makes it a popular choice for salads, soups, stir-fries, and even kale chips. The deep green color and unique appearance of lacinato kale not only enhance the visual appeal of dishes but also indicate its high nutritional value.
Gardeners and home cooks alike appreciate the relatively easy cultivation of lacinato kale. It thrives in cooler climates and can be grown in gardens or containers. Its adaptability and versatility in the kitchen have contributed to the rising popularity of lacinato kale, making it a staple in the diets of those seeking nutritious and flavorful food options.
One of the distinctive characteristics of lacinato kale is its hearty and robust texture, which stands up well to cooking methods like sautéing, roasting, and braising. Unlike some other varieties of kale, lacinato kale maintains its firmness and doesn't become overly tough when cooked. This makes it a popular choice for salads, soups, stir-fries, and even kale chips. The deep green color and unique appearance of lacinato kale not only enhance the visual appeal of dishes but also indicate its high nutritional value.
Gardeners and home cooks alike appreciate the relatively easy cultivation of lacinato kale. It thrives in cooler climates and can be grown in gardens or containers. Its adaptability and versatility in the kitchen have contributed to the rising popularity of lacinato kale, making it a staple in the diets of those seeking nutritious and flavorful food options.
Lacinato kale, like other kale varieties, prefers cool growing conditions and is well-suited for cultivation in temperate climates. Here are some key growing conditions that lacinato kale prefers:
- Temperature: Lacinato kale thrives in cooler temperatures. It is best grown in temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 24 degrees Celsius). In fact, exposure to frost can enhance the flavor of lacinato kale, making it a suitable choice for fall and winter cultivation.
- Sunlight: Kale, including lacinato kale, benefits from full sun to partial shade. Aim for at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth. However, it can tolerate some shade, particularly in warmer climates.
- Soil: Lacinato kale prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. It grows best in soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil can improve its fertility and structure.
- Watering: Adequate and consistent watering is crucial for lacinato kale. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogged conditions. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
- Spacing: When planting lacinato kale, provide enough spacing between plants to allow for good air circulation. This helps prevent diseases and ensures that each plant has ample room to develop its characteristic long and narrow leaves.
- Fertilization: While lacinato kale is not overly demanding in terms of fertilization, incorporating a balanced fertilizer into the soil during planting can support healthy growth. Additionally, side-dressing with compost during the growing season can provide a nutrient boost.
Lacinato Kale and White Bean Soup:
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 1 bunch of lacinato kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the chopped lacinato kale to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the kale is tender.
- Stir in the white beans and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the beans through.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve the lacinato kale and white bean soup hot, optionally garnishing with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.