Cheesy Kale with Garlic and Spices 

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Cheesy Kale with Garlic and Spices is a delicious and nutritious side dish that brings out the best in kale with the addition of rich cheese, aromatic spices, and a creamy sauce. This recipe is a great way to make kale more enticing and is perfect for pairing with a variety of main courses. Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful dish. 

Ingredients 

  • Kale (amount as desired) 
  • Olive oil 
  • Salt to taste 
  • Ground black pepper to taste 
  • Red paprika to taste 
  • Herbs of Provence to taste 
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced 
  • 0.5 chili pepper, finely chopped 
  • 80 g cheese, shredded 
  • 40 g butter 
  • 1 tablespoon of flour 
  • 100 ml milk 
  • Nutmeg to taste 

Instructions 

  1. Prepare the Kale: 
  • Thoroughly rinse the kale and discard the sturdy stems. Chop the kale into bite-sized pieces. 
  1. Cook the Kale: 
  • Warm a small amount of olive oil in a generously-sized skillet set to medium heat. Add the chopped kale and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it begins to wilt. 
  • Season with salt, ground black pepper, red paprika, and Herbs of Provence to taste. 
  1. Add Garlic and Chili: 
  • Add the minced garlic and finely chopped chili pepper to the skillet. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the chili pepper is well incorporated. 
  1. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: 
  • In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until it becomes liquid and smooth. Then, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux. 
  • Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce. 
  • Stir in the shredded cheese, a little at a time, until it melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. 
  • Season the cheese sauce with a pinch of nutmeg to taste. 
  1. Combine and Cook: 
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the sautéed kale in the skillet. Stir well to ensure the kale is evenly coated with the sauce. 
  • Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined. 
  1. Serve: 
  • Transfer the cheesy kale to a serving dish and serve hot. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone vegetarian option. 

Conclusion 

Cheesy Kale with Garlic and Spices is a fantastic way to elevate the humble kale into a creamy, flavorful side dish. The combination of garlic, chili, and aromatic spices with the rich cheese sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect addition to any meal, offering a burst of flavor and nutrition.