This Cheesy Kale with Garlic and Spices is a rich and comforting way to enjoy kale. Enhanced with aromatic garlic, a blend of spices, and a creamy cheese sauce, this dish transforms kale into a delicious side that pairs beautifully with any main course. The addition of a mild kick from chili pepper and the warmth of nutmeg makes this dish a perfect balance of flavors, while the creamy, cheesy sauce brings it all together.
Ingredients:
- Kale (amount as desired, approx. 4-6 cups)
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- Red paprika to taste
- Herbs of Provence to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 chili pepper, finely chopped
- 80 g cheese, shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
- 40 g butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 100 ml milk
- Nutmeg to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kale:
- Clean and Prep the Kale:
- Wash the kale thoroughly and remove the tough stems. Tear or chop the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Kale:
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it becomes aromatic.
- Add the chopped chili pepper, and cook for another minute.
- Toss in the kale, season with salt, ground black pepper, red paprika, and Herbs of Provence to taste. Sauté the kale for 3-5 minutes until it wilts but still retains some of its texture.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Prepare a Roux:
- In a small saucepan, melt the 40 g butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux.
- Add the Milk:
- Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season the Sauce:
- Stir in a pinch of nutmeg for warmth and depth. Season the sauce with a little salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the Cheese:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. Set aside.
3. Combine and Serve:
- Mix the Kale and Cheese Sauce:
- Once the kale has finished sautéing and the cheese sauce is ready, pour the sauce over the wilted kale in the skillet. Gently toss the kale with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Cheesy Kale with Garlic and Spices to a serving dish. For a bit of extra flavor, sprinkle a little more paprika or grated cheese on top if desired. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy kale dish.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Kale with Garlic and Spices offers a deliciously rich and savory way to enjoy kale. The tender sautéed greens paired with the creamy, cheesy sauce and subtle heat from the chili make this dish a flavorful side that can accompany any meal. Whether served with roasted meats, fish, or as part of a vegetarian feast, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!