Transform humble greens into a deeply flavorful side dish with this easy Braised Kale recipe! Tender kale leaves are simmered to perfection in a savory broth infused with sautéed onions, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes for gentle heat. This nutrient-packed dish is enhanced with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish that takes it to the next level. Perfect as a vegan side dish or a hearty accompaniment to roasted meats, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. Use "braised kale" to add a healthy, flavorful twist to your mealtime repertoire!
Prepare the kale by washing it thoroughly, removing the tough stems, and roughly chopping the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves.
Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Add the chopped kale to the skillet, a few handfuls at a time, stirring to coat the leaves in the oil and aromatics as they wilt down.
Once all the kale has been added, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to distribute the liquid evenly.
Sprinkle the salt and black pepper over the kale, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the kale to braise for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the kale is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Optionally, drizzle with lemon juice for a bright finish before serving.
Serve the braised kale warm as a side dish or as a topping for grains, roasted vegetables, or proteins.
Calories |
510 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 35.0 g | 45% | |
| Saturated Fat | 5.2 g | 26% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1427 mg | 62% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.1 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.1 g | 75% | |
| Total Sugars | 8.8 g | ||
| Protein | 15.3 g | 31% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1193 mg | 92% | |
| Iron | 7.9 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 1802 mg | 38% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.