| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 25 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 180 | 15g | 2g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 4g | 5g | 1.2g |
Every once in a while, you stumble upon a recipe that not only delights your palate but also feels like a warm hug from an old friend. For me, that recipe is Braised Sea Kale with Toasted Almonds. This dish embodies everything I love about cooking: fresh, nutritious ingredients, simple methods, and flavors that evoke memories and emotions.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Growing up in Texas, I was surrounded by vibrant Tex-Mex flavors. My family dishes were often rich and hearty, but always laden with vegetables that were fresh from the garden. Over the years, I’ve drawn inspiration from these roots, always aiming to introduce modern twists to traditional Southern recipes. The Braised Sea Kale with Toasted Almonds recipe is one such example. It combines the rustic, hearty feel of Southern cuisine with a lighter, more modern approach.
Health Benefits Packed in Every Bite
Sea kale is a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, this leafy green helps support your immune system, vision, and bone health. Additionally, the dish is rich in fiber, which aids in digestion, and the extra virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. The almonds add a satisfying crunch and an extra dose of vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties.
Furthermore, the use of vegetable broth combined with the bright flavors of lemon juice and soy sauce creates a balance that’s both nourishing and vibrant. Garlic and onions not only enhance the flavor profile but also come with their own health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
A Versatile Addition to Any Meal
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. Similar to dishes like sautéed spinach or braised collard greens, this sea kale recipe complements a wide variety of main courses. It pairs wonderfully with grilled fish or roasted chicken. For a vegetarian feast, consider serving it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. You might also find it a delightful addition to a holiday spread, offering a lighter, yet flavorful counterpoint to richer dishes such as stuffing or mashed potatoes.
Whether you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, or simply in search of a delicious side dish that brings together the best of both traditional and modern flavors, this recipe has you covered. Every time you take a bite, you’re not just nourishing your body, but also experiencing the love and care that goes into thoughtful cooking.
For more inspiration or ideas on how to pair this flavorful side dish, check out some similar recipes on external blogs like Simply Recipes and Smitten Kitchen.
Enjoy this culinary journey, and here’s to many more delicious moments around your table!
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs sea kale, washed and chopped
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Method
Step One
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped yellow onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step Two
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step Three
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the washed and chopped sea kale. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sea kale begins to wilt.
Step Four
Pour in the vegetable broth, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step Five
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let it braise for about 10-12 minutes, or until the sea kale is tender.
Step Six
Season with sea salt and black pepper to taste. Stir in the raisins and allow them to soften for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Step Seven
Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle the toasted sliced almonds and chopped fresh parsley over the top.
Step Eight
Serve the braised sea kale warm, garnished with extra parsley and toasted almonds if desired. Enjoy!
