Can You Steam Kale in the Microwave? A Simple Guide

I’m a big fan of kale. It’s one of those leafy greens that is not only incredibly nutritious but also incredibly versatile. There are so many ways to prepare kale, from sautéing it with garlic and olive oil to baking it into crispy kale chips. But recently, I found myself wondering if it was possible to steam kale in the microwave. I mean, steaming vegetables in the microwave is such a quick and easy way to cook them, so why not give it a shot with kale?

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The Experiment Begins

To begin my kale steaming adventure, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and tools. I had a bunch of fresh kale, a microwave-safe dish with a lid, a bit of water, and a dash of salt for seasoning. I trimmed the kale leaves off the stems and tore them into bite-sized pieces. Then, I rinsed the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or impurities.

Preparing the Microwave-Safe Dish

Next, I placed the torn kale leaves into the microwave-safe dish and added about half an inch of water. I didn’t want to drown the kale in water; I just wanted enough to create steam. Then, I sprinkled a pinch of salt over the leaves to enhance the flavor as they cooked. I was careful not to add too much salt since I could always season the steamed kale later if needed.

Covering and Microwaving

Once the kale was prepped and ready to go, I covered the dish with its lid to trap the steam and prevent any splattering in the microwave. Then, I put the dish in the microwave and set the timer for 3 minutes on high power. I knew that kale is a sturdy leafy green, so it would need a bit more time to cook than say, spinach.

The Result

Once the microwave beeped, indicating that the kale was done, I carefully removed the dish from the microwave. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the kale was vibrant and tender, just as if it had been steamed using conventional methods. The microwave had indeed achieved its steaming purpose, and the kale was cooked to perfection.

Why Steam Kale in the Microwave?

Microwaving kale is a wonderful option when you need to whip up a quick and healthy side dish. The microwave is known for its speed and efficiency, and steaming kale is no exception. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider steaming kale in the microwave:

Time-Saving: Steaming kale in the microwave is a time-saving method. It takes only a few minutes to cook, making it a convenient option for busy individuals.

Preservation of Nutrients: Microwaving kale helps to preserve its nutrients since the cooking time is relatively short. This means that you can enjoy all the health benefits of kale without losing too many nutrients in the cooking process.

Easy Cleanup: Cooking kale in the microwave requires minimal cleanup. Since you’re using a microwave-safe dish with a lid, you won’t have to deal with any pots or pans that need to be washed afterward.

Best Ways to Enjoy Steamed Kale

Now that you know how to steam kale in the microwave let’s talk about how to enjoy it. Here are some delicious ways to incorporate steamed kale into your meals:

Kale Salad: Steam the kale in the microwave and let it cool. Then, toss it with your favorite salad dressing, some cherry tomatoes, and maybe even some crumbled feta cheese. It makes for a refreshing and nutritious salad.

Sautéed Kale: In a pan, heat up some olive oil and garlic. Add the steamed kale and cook it for a few minutes until it’s heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a simple yet tasty side dish.

Kale Smoothie: Yes, you can even add steamed kale to your morning smoothie! Blend it up with some frozen fruits, yogurt, and a splash of almond milk for a nutritious and filling smoothie.

Conclusion

In conclusion, steaming kale in the microwave is not only possible but also a quick and easy way to cook this nutritious leafy green. With a microwave-safe dish, some water, and a pinch of salt, you can have perfectly steamed kale in just a few minutes. So, the next time you’re craving some healthy greens, give microwave-steamed kale a try!