What is kale and why is it so famous?

It’s trendy, one of the most nutritious vegetables and, at the same time, less known. It’s called kale in English and “collard greens,” “curly kale,” or “cabbage” in Spanish. It is a close relative of broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. This vegetable has come to dethrone spinach, even with Popeye, and is becoming the queen of green products. Many of us are discovering it, and others already consider it popular when it comes to taking care of the body and health, as it is exceptionally rich in nutrients, very beneficial for health, and quite tasty. Some consider it one of the healthiest vegetables on the planet. Its scientific name is Brassica oleracea and it is native to Asia Minor, from where it reached Europe around 600 AD. However, two of its varieties, the “ornamental” and the “dinosaur,” were first cultivated in the United States in the 1980s. It can be found in markets and is a very easy vegetable to eat. A cup of kale contains only 33 calories, is very rich in calcium, vitamins A, C, and K, in greater proportion, not to mention its high content of minerals, antioxidants, and fiber. Nutritionists recommend including one and a half cups of kale in our diet twice a week. Look for it and try to buy it firm and of intense color. It generally needs to be refrigerated in plastic bags to avoid losing its nutrients and to keep its leaves fresh - for your information, the smaller leaves are the tastiest. It can be stored for up to 5 days in the refrigerator, and you only need to wash the leaves you will use immediately. Although it is delicious just steamed with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, here are other suggestions. If you can't find it in regular markets, you can look for it at Mercado El 100, Green Corner, City Market, and Costco, where they sell baby kale. Tips for eating kale It’s ideal for making juices because of its abundant nutrients; add it to pasta soups, like the classic elbow or noodle soup, just as we sometimes do with spinach. Substitute the lettuce in your regular sandwich with kale. The caramelized onion sandwich with melted cheese and kale is delicious. Make a kale salad with pieces of chicken or grilled salmon and a vinaigrette of equal parts oil and chicken broth with an egg yolk; it’s a delicious option. See original note here.