Growing up, I always had a love-hate relationship with kale. On one hand, I knew it was incredibly good for me, packed with vitamins and minerals. But on the other hand, I found it to be tough and bitter, making it a challenge for me to enjoy. That all changed when I learned the secret to steaming kale in the microwave. It’s quick, easy, and transforms this leafy green into a tender and flavorful side dish that I can’t get enough of. In this article, I’ll be sharing with you my personal experience and tips on how long to steam kale in the microwave.
Why Steam Kale in the Microwave?
The Convenience Factor
When it comes to cooking, convenience is key. The microwave is a time-saving kitchen appliance that has become a go-to for many households. It’s no surprise that steaming kale in the microwave is a popular method among busy individuals who are looking for a quick and easy way to prepare this nutritious vegetable. Compared to other cooking methods, such as stovetop steaming or oven roasting, the microwave offers a hassle-free solution that saves both time and effort.
Preserving Nutrients
Microwaving kale is also an excellent way to preserve the valuable nutrients that this leafy green has to offer. Traditional boiling methods can lead to nutrient loss as the vitamins and minerals leach into the cooking water. On the other hand, steaming kale in the microwave helps to retain the nutritional content, ensuring that you get the most out of this superfood.
How to Steam Kale in the Microwave
Now that we understand the benefits of steaming kale in the microwave let’s dive into the steps on how to do it properly.
Step 1: Prep the Kale
Start by washing the kale thoroughly under cold running water. This helps to remove any dirt or debris that may be clinging to the leaves. Once clean, pat the leaves dry using a kitchen towel or paper towels. Removing excess moisture is important to ensure the steaming process is efficient.
Step 2: Removing the Stems
You can choose to steam kale with or without stems, depending on your preference. Some people find the stems to be tough and fibrous, while others enjoy their added crunch. If you decide to remove the stems, hold the leaf at the base with one hand and use your other hand to strip the leaves away from the stem. Discard the stems or save them for other recipes, such as kale chips or vegetable stock.
Step 3: Tear into Bite-sized Pieces
Tear the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces. This allows for even cooking and ensures that you can enjoy your steamed kale without any large, unwieldy pieces.
Step 4: Add Water
Place the torn kale leaves in a microwave-safe dish. Add around 1-2 tablespoons of water to the dish. The water will create steam, helping to cook the kale evenly.
Step 5: Cover and Microwave
Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for the steam to escape. This will prevent any splattering and ensure that the kale steams properly. Microwave the dish on high power for 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Check for Doneness
After the initial cooking time, carefully remove the lid or plastic wrap, taking caution to avoid any potential steam burns. Use a fork or tongs to gently toss the kale, ensuring that all the leaves are exposed to the steam. Return the dish to the microwave and continue microwaving at 1-minute intervals until the kale is cooked to your desired tenderness. The total cooking time will depend on the wattage of your microwave and the size of the kale leaves.
Step 7: Season and Enjoy
Once your kale is steamed to perfection, remove it from the microwave and season with your preferred flavors. A sprinkle of salt, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of olive oil can all enhance the taste of this nutritious green. Mix well and serve as a side dish or incorporate the steamed kale into your favorite recipes.
Final Thoughts
Steaming kale in the microwave is an excellent way to transform this tough and bitter vegetable into a tender and flavorful delight. Not only is it a convenient cooking method, but it also preserves the valuable nutrients that kale has to offer. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can enjoy perfectly steamed kale in no time. So, give it a try and see how this easy cooking technique can elevate your kale game to a whole new level!